Starting to lose patience with Osmolator

[biggsean20]

I've had a tunze osmolator for a few months now that I invested a good amount of money in because it was reputed to be a good piece of equipment. Lately I have had nothing but problems with it. The first problem i've been having is that the AC prong that plugs into the control unit does not make a good electrical connection, it usually requires me to fiddle with it, pulling it in and out until it finally makes a good contact. The second, and MOST annoying problem is that the optical sensor does not seem to work so well. It claims the water is level when my sump has evaporated water several inches below the point of where the sensor is. I take the sensor out, dip it in vinegar, clean it with vinegar...put it back in the tank. It will work for another half day or so and then it will start having the same problems again. What can I do??? I'm starting to really think I should just get a $10 float switch and a small pump to address my top-off problem. These two problems are driving me insane and I spent a good amount of money on this device!

 

[moonpod]

There is something seriously wrong with your unit. First off, my sensor, I barely EVER clean it. Second off, I definitely don't have plug problems. I'm sure Roger will fix the situation (is he even back in the US though???).

 

[biggsean20]

I have no clue. I need to find a solution quick because I evaporate about 8-10 gallons a day.

 

[rvitko]

All you have to do is send it in. It is possible to bend a tab inside the socket and adjust the tension. I may not be able to replicate your sensor problem as the cause could be a problem with your sump, such as bubbles or lots of splashing. I can take a look at it though and if it is a real product issue get it repaired or replaced. I have been back since last Monday but I leave tomorrow for Chicago (IMAC) and will return Monday.

 

[biggsean20]

It is definitely not a problem with my sump or setup. It is in a section of my sump where there is no splashing whatsoever, just still water. This thing was working well for about a month and a half before it started getting flaky on me. Where do I send this unit to, and which parts do you need?

 

[rvitko]

Send everything but the installation rails to Tunze USA, 1007 N Bend Dr, Austin TX 78758. Be sure to include all contact info, repair is free as is return shipping unless water damage or modifications are found.

 

[rvitko]

Correction -1107 N Bend Dr!

 

[biggsean20]

I will send it out ASAP.

 

[matt_rogers]

Sigh... I am having similar problems with the sensor on my Osmomot and I just got mine. First it overfilled and wouldn't shut off until the alarm, but now it's the opposite and won't activate the pump unless I pull the sensor completely out of the Osmomot.

 

[rvitko]

Matt, make sure everything is asssembled correctly. In your case the Osmomat has some extra complications. The cables or solid surfaces can hold a water droplet to the sensor. The pump should lay on it's side with the sponge wedged between the narrow side of the box and the pump intake. The cables need to be guided out in such a way that they do not contact the sensor- FWIW, in 2 years and easily 150 Osmolators I have seen one real defect and 2 small issues that developed over time with holes in the optic sensor where the cable enters causing shorting and all that had to be done was replace the sensor, it is an extremely reliable unit and most of the time there is a problem reported it is a user error, a problem caused by the hydrophobic nature of new plastic or water damage to the electronics. They just don't fail, be patient and we will work through it. I am on my way to IMAC and just checking in from the Best Western in Denton. Hopefully tomorrow night I can check in again.