ATO secondary shut-off

[Werbo]

I have this JBJ auto top off unit.
http://www.jlaquatics.com/phpstore/s...t_ID=JBJ-AUTOT

Seems every week there is a tank crash thread caused by a failed ATO sensor. I've decided that I want to incorporate a secondary shut off incase the sensor gets stuck in the open position.

Any suggestions?

[Aquattro]

Ya, float valve, like we discussed

[Werbo]

Kent float valve is the way i am leaning.

I was hoping there was someone smarter than us who's thought of something better

[Reef Pilot]

I use this for one of my sumps. But it would be overkill, if you already have an ATO. They also sell float valves for about $13, cheaper than the Kent valve.
http://www.autotopoff.com/products/DS1/

[gregzz4]

Cheapest way is a secondary float valve, as Brad suggests
Just test it every week

I've already had one float semi-fail since last May (not ATO related, but a float to a relay to shut off other stuff)
I took it out and cleaned it up. Now it's fine

Otherwise, buy a Tunze Osmolator and keep the sensor eye clean

[Werbo]

I already have a kent float valve that's in storage. So I am all good on that front.

ATO pump question. What would be a good pump? Reservoir and sump are inches apart?

[strauss]

Just my 2 cents. I only allow the ATO power for a few minutes a day via apex. So worse case and ATO fails in on position, minimal damage is done before I notice. Simply figure out your evaporation and how much your pump puts out and allow only enough time to complete the task.

Brandon

[strauss]

That's if you have a controller. If not forgot I said anything.

[Werbo]

Good suggestion. But I don't have a controller

[Werbo]

My ATO reservoir is quite large at approximately 25G.

Do I have to do anything to minimize slime, algae, ect in such a large reservoir.

Is airating the water necessary? Once heard this but his reasoning did not make sense to me.

I should also note that the majority of the time the reservoir will only have 10G. 10G is about 5 days water. I'll only be filling before vacations.