Top off set-up

[Jim_S]

I've gone all these years w/out a top off system, and now it's time I do myself the favor and build one.

I'm kinda new to top-off systems, so I don't know entirely what it is that I need.

I want to run a gavity feed system that I will have outside the stand.

My first question is, what type of float valve do I need? I don't really want to drill my sump because its glass. I would preffer to go with one that is not magnetic if I can.

 

[funman1]

Ever thought about float switches, and using an Aqua Lifter?
That's what I use on my three tanks and love ever bit of it.

Here is one of my tank controllers still in use on one of my tanks today.
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=892753&highlight=auto+top

Ganted there are MUCH less complicated ways to do this, then what I show
~Steve~

 

[MrMikeB]

Steve's setup is primo!

I use an Aqualifter with a simple mechanical float valve buoy stuck to my sump that basically closes the water line off when its full. Pretty simple, and effective - but did require drilling a hole in the sump.

 

[Jim_S]

My main goal is to use no electricty or pumps. I want this to be a gravity run system that allows flow when the float valve opens.

Is there a FV that I can buy that either doesn't need a drilled sump (i.e. a hang on device), or require any power to operate?

I will also ask the DIY forum I guess.

Does anyone else locally run a gravity fed top-off?

Jim

 

[Unarce]

I think the Nurce system does that. They're not being manufactured anymore, but I heard they were great. You could probably find a used one if you poke around a bit, or maybe just DIY a similar design.

 

[Jim_S]

Thanks Karl

I'll keep my eyes open

 

[Jim_S]

BTW, funman, that is an AWSOME set up!

Jim

 

[MrMikeB]

Well if you do not want to use a float valve that requires drilling, they make other ones that use an adhesive of some sort - or you can just glue one to the side just the same (I imagine) At some point it will need to be anchored to the sump, either via magnet, adhesive, etc. - your choice.

As for gravity, check out the KENT top off gravity system (FostersandSmith has them for sale). It is simply a bottle with a tube coming out the underside connected to the topoff. Real simple.

 

[Jim_S]

Thanks Mike. I have the tank all ready to go. I just need a proper float valve to make it all work

I like the idea if a magnet mount, but the glue sounds like I'm setting it up to fail.

Any links to such valves?

Jim

 

[CaliforniaDreamer]

I have used the Tunze Osmolator on my tank at work for about two years and it has worked flawlessly. It is a bit expensive ($175) but I wanted something I could leave for 4 or 5 days without worrying about it. It does use power but it is at 9 volts for both the sensor and pump. another nice feature is that it is very sensitive. When I use a turkey baster to feed, taking just about 1/2 cup of water out of the 40 gallon system causes it to go on for a couple of seconds. Somehow it also does not go on due to the ripples in the sump. It is also not sensitive to the buildup of stuff on the sensor, I only clean it every few months and have never had a problem with it.

 

[kdblove_99]

I just set up my Tunze 3155 last week and love it!

BUt, It does use a pump.

Good luck Jim

 

[Jim_S]

Thanks Davey.

I started another thread http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1034676

My goal is to make one simalr to rick's system in the thread.

No pump, no electronics. It should be pretty sweet when I'm done.

Jim

 

[Kinetic]

i've heard great things about nurce style ones too, but like karl said, they're not made anymore =(

goodluck!!!