How To Set Up A Skimmer Over Flow Switch ?

[427HISS]

I'm in the slow,...process of building a 125g reef, so how can I set up a system to keep my skimmer from overflowing, from feeding, adding carbon, cleaning the DT, sump,... etc ?

 

[Mical]

Add one of these to your skimmer - https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/smart-skimmer-security-autoaqua.html

 

[427HISS]

How's the quality ?

 

[427HISS]

?

 

[jent]

Bump, I am also curious. I was planning to drill a hole in the top of my lid and install a float switch. But a magnetic optical sensor seems potentially better.

I worry about the additional logic of this device (needing to be unplugged while reconnected, delay starting back up, etc). I also wonder how dirty it will get generally and if it may trip early.

Anyone used one of these smart skimmer security things?

 

[427HISS]

Triple bump......lol

 

[jent]

I think I will use the Davey Jones skimmate locker instead. It provides a switch to protect overflow, while adding capacity. Seems overall more useful.

 

[427HISS]

$175 ouch.
But, assume high quality from Avast.

https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/medium-davey-jones-skimmate-locker-avast-marine.html

 

[ca1ore]

I would worry about using an optical switch in a fouling environment. I’ve had issues with the apex optical switches in applications where stuff can build up on them. Mechanical float switches may be vulnerable to sludge buildup as well. My personal choice for a skimmer would be something like the avast pressure switch. You could easily DIY a container and just buy the standalone switch.

 

[jent]

I looked for just the switch, but could not find anything like it. If anyone has ideas on the right search terms I would appreciate it.

 

[wiselyy73]

Get one that has the drain hose and drain to a container. Put a float sensor in the container to shut off the skimmer when full

 

[ca1ore]

I looked for just the switch, but could not find anything like it. If anyone has ideas on the right search terms I would appreciate it.

Go to the avast website and put pressure switch into the search bar - Something like $65 if memory serves.

 

[dwest]

I would worry about using an optical switch in a fouling environment. I’ve had issues with the apex optical switches in applications where stuff can build up on them. Mechanical float switches may be vulnerable to sludge buildup as well. My personal choice for a skimmer would be something like the avast pressure switch. You could easily DIY a container and just buy the standalone switch.

I’ve used a similar pressure switch for my ATO in my sump for 20 plus years without fail. I also have one in my skimmate locker that I hook up when leave for vacations.

 

[427HISS]

Go to the avast website and put pressure switch into the search bar - Something like $65 if memory serves.

So this complete system for 100 bucks ?

https://www.avastmarine.com/products/ato-kit

 

[ca1ore]

No, that’s the ATO. Just search for pressure switch.

 

[S-t-r-e-t-c-h]

this one...

https://www.avastmarine.com/products/pressure-switch

 

[dantimdad]

I gotta tell ya, for $99 that seems to be a good deal on that ATO.

If I hadn't built my own...

 

[mtraylor]

I have the reef octopus one if you are interested. Its never been used. It has float switch and your skmmer plugs into the controller.

 

[427HISS]

I gotta tell ya, for $99 that seems to be a good deal on that ATO.

If I hadn't built my own...

Yes it does. Does it require anything else needed ? (and don't say a skimmer) :p

 

[dantimdad]

A foam fractionation device. ;Hilarious

What?! You said I couldn't say skimmer.