Mounting float valve w/o drilling????

[khilgers]

I want to hook up a top off system for dripping kalkwasser and I have been told that the Kent aquadoser's clog VERY easily. Does anyone have any suggestions for mounting a float valve in my sump W/O drilling a hole in it. I was thinking of making a bracket that would hang on the edge of the tank and hold the float valve in place. Anyone have any pics of something like this or could help me figure this out. Thanks

 

[jamiehag]

Is the sump acrylic or glass if it's acylic it would be a snap to drill a small hole (any drill bit will work) for the float valve that is how mine is set up. If it's glass and you don't want to drill a hole in it good luck, it would be tricky to mount a bracket at the right level yet along trying to glue it to the glass.

 

[sco999]

Just make a bracket out of acrylic to hang on the tank. It is an easy DIY project.

 

[khilgers]

Anyone have any pics of a hang bracket?

 

[jamiehag]

I want to warn you about "hanging" a bracket for the valve. The float requires the water to rise putting pressure on the valve to shut if the bracket is only"hanging" on the sump it will just lift the bracket up along with the float. It is just asking for problems.

 

[sco999]

True, but it won't lift up if you tap a hole in the acrylic bracket and use a nylon screw to secure it with a clamping force on the glass.

 

[jamiehag]

good point!! but...... I still feel if they have the ablilty to fabicate a hanger it would just be much eaiser to make a small hole in the sump for it.

 

[sco999]

I was told almost all glass aquariums are tempered, and that you can't drill tempered glass, but I also read somewhere that the only piece that is tempered is the bottom piece. What do you know about this? I have a Top Fin 29gallon sump that I would like to drill a hole in myself, instead of fabricating a bracket. I have never drilled glass before maybe you could walk me through it!!
Thanks

 

[khilgers]

I'm using a Top Fin 29 gallon from petsmart, which I believe is made by perect and just labeled Top Fin. From what I know only the bottom is tempered, not the sides. Can anyone clarify on this?

 

[squidd]

Your best and safest bet would be to contact customer service at Top Fin and ask them direct, but I'm betting your safe...
I used a 1/2" bit like this and then a Dremel dimod rasp to open to a "snug" fit on the Float valve..