ReefNut

[ags]

I was reading in another thread where you use an auto top off system and kalk. I just bought the JBJ ATO and was thinking about doing the samething.
Anything you can recommend me doing to make the setup and function easier?
I planned on using a 5 gallon bucket with prepared kalk water and an extra pump to keep the kalk water circulating at all times. Will this work? How do you have yours setup?
Thanks,
Ags

 

[ags]

Sorry, I have read and reread the kalk thread. However, I assumed you used the JBJ ATO which is why I asked you. If not disregard.
Thanks

 

[reefnut]

I'm not using the JBJ ATO... a few thoughts though. If you plan to mix the limewater at all times make sure you use RO/DI water and a PURE kalk mix. Also keep the top close on the container as much as possible to limit exposure to air.
Mine consists of a 20g tub that I mix once a week and allow the mix to settle. The pump is up where no solids can enter the tank so it's just the solution being added which is important if you're using anything but high quality kalk mix.

 

[reefnut]

One more thing... be careful... I have had two near disastrous events. A stuck float switch can be a VERY bad thing.

 

[kdfrosty]

I use the JBJ ATO. The only thing I can say is to use it in "mode 2". By using the second sensor in my reservoir has saved my butt (and my pump) multiple times.

 

[ags]

Is the float valve getting stuck a common occurrence? I have all the equipment ready to set up but this exact problem is preventing me from doing so. I already had one major flood this year which is 1 more than I care to have.
My tank evaporates anywhere from .25 to .75 gallons of water per day due to Florida's eratic summer weather. I bought a 5 gallon bucket with top which I plan to use for the top off. Worst case scenario, I guess, would be a 5 gallon flood, burned out pump and some cleanup.
So using a kalk mix in this setting is okay? ReefNut what kind of disatrous events did you have?

 

[reefnut]

So using a kalk mix in this setting is okay?
IMO it's not the best way but it works. Ideally a dosing pump could be used in conjunction with the float switches or float valves to minimize the risk.
ReefNut what kind of disatrous events did you have?
Both events were my fault... not a equipment failure.
The first time https://www.saltwaterfish.com/vb/showthread.php?t=112504
The second, I lost siphon in the refuge's overflow. Water flowed onto the floor so the kalk started to flow. About the same results as the link describes. This all happened with in a few months and I ended up loosing a few sps corals because of it.