Quick auto top off.why does it not work?

[nel621]

I am going away and decided to make an auto top off system.I am using a 5 gal water jug.I drilled a small hole and added a small hose to it on the bottom The top of the jug is seal so no air gets in.I turned the jug upside down to test it. No leaks or air bubbles.I placed the hose into a container that had some water in it.By the way I am using an airline fitting siliconed to the hole.When I open the air line the water flows but it will not stop flowing.I thought it should stop until the water level was below the hose.What am I doing wrong.I am leaving in 10 hrs.Need some quick advice.Thanks.
Nelson

 

[posiden]

Is it to late, have you gone away?
The issue is air is getting in somehow. It only takes a tiny hole to allow in enough air to have this happen. Especially if you are using small diameter hose for the drain line.
Also the end of the tubing needs to be at the water level height that you intend to keep.

 

[nel621]

I'm still here.Thanks for the reply.I think I'm going to silicone the top of the jug shut.The cap is very tight but why chance it.I will also try and resilicne the valve.Thanks

 

[posiden]

No problem,
The only issue I see is not enough time for a proper check of the air tightness of the jug. The constant sucking pressure and moister could cause a problem(with curing) after you leave.
Good luck.