Top off program help

[pcbroch]

Hi all:

I have my top off program setup as follows (with NeedTopOff being a virtual outlet based on the state of my float switch).

Fallback OFF
Set OFF
If Outlet NeedTopOff = ON Then ON
Min Time 180:00 Then OFF

The way it is setup now, it runs every 3 hours, and tops off until the float turns off again.

In addition to this, I would like to limit the time it runs to X minutes, in order to avoid burning up my pump in case the top off container ran dry. I can't figure out how to do it. Can anyone help?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Orcrone]

How about adding a virtual outlet called TopOffCancel:

Assuming your top off outlet is called TopOff it's programming would be:

Fallback OFF
Set OFF
If Outlet TopOff = On Then On
Defer 002:00 Then On

This will cause the TopOffCancel virtual outlet to turn on 2 minutes (or whatever delay you choose) after the TopOff starts up.

Then you can add the statement:

If Outlet TopOffCancel = On Then Off

to your topoff programming, causing the topoff to turn off two minutes after turning on.

I think that should work?

 

[RussM]

Add another float switch to detect when the reservoir is almost empty and keep the pump turned off.

 

[swearint]

Russ' suggestion is the most direct approach, but in the meantime here is an alternative:

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showpost.php?p=17885094&postcount=9

Todd

 

[pcbroch]

Russ' suggestion is the most direct approach, but in the meantime here is an alternative
...

Agreed, although my top-off container doen't really allow for a float switch the way it is setup (it's an 8L bottle with a hole in the cap). I have 3 bottles that I rotate every 3-4 days.

I'll play with the other suggestions above and let you guys know. Thanks for the tips.