Auto topoff q's

leigh

leigh

Active Member
Hey everybody...
So I was thinking about adding an auto topoff system--looking at previous threads I was wanting to just do the uber-simple bucket filled with freshwater with a power head and hose leading to the sump with a float valve/switch. However, talking to fishstore guys today they said you have to drill a hole to use a float switch? Is this true? How else can I set up a simple auto-top off without drilling holes in my tank?
thanks!
-leigh
ps. anyone have any experience using the AT-1 water replenisher by blueline products?
 
zafirablanca

zafirablanca

Member
You do not have to drill a hole for a float switch. Mine came with a suction cup bracket, but I changed it after reading a post here. I used plastic cable ties/ zip ties to secure Tsunami float switch to an extra maxi-jet 'over the edge of the tank' style bracket. It is easy to adjust the height on the swtch, totally movable as to sump location, and I dont worry about the suction cup coming loose over time. I recommend this.
It is very easy to add kalkwasser/ pickling lime to the fresh water to supplement calcium/ buffer pH this way also. If you choose to add kalk, just be sure to raise you powerhead/ pump off the bottom of the bucket a few inches. This will prevent the undissolved kalk from entering you tank. I made a little stand for my powerhead with some spare pvc fittings (elbows and tees) and short lengths of pipe. I cable tied my pump to the pvc and now its sits above the solids in the bucket. Some people like to attach a few pieces of pvc to a section of plastic light diffusing egg crate (from the hardware store) to make a little platform. I didn't because I didn't want to pay for a whole sheet of egg crate for a few inches worth.
Good Luck,
-Christine
 
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