Hydor Smart Level Auto Top Off Issues

[FishyDP]

I have 2 of these and they are both having the same problem. Both units are making the water level in my sumps rise to the alarm level, bypassing the max level. I started with a 80 gph pump, and then went to a 50 gph pump..still having the same issue. Pumps are turned all the way down. I am running 1/2" tubes reduced to 1/4" tubes via a coupler. Does anyone have this ato system, any tips on getting it to run properly? The ato does stop filling my sump when the water level hits the alarm level..

150g display, 30g crystal trigger systems sump
125g display, 30g pro clear sump

The ato sensors are both in the sump return chambers. I am dosing kalk through the ato reservoir, so over-dosing is definitely a concern.

 

[nautical_nathaniel]

I would check the sensor, it might need a good cleaning. An even smaller pump might also help it have an easier time sensing water at the middle sensor since it will take a longer amount of time for water to reach that point and subsequently the alarm/shut-off sensor.

 

[dantimdad]

I have one that I don't use because I kept having to clean and reset it every few days.

My buddy put it on a freshwater tank and it works fine.

I build my own two float setup and it works flawlessly.

 

[FishyDP]

I have one that I don't use because I kept having to clean and reset it every few days.

My buddy put it on a freshwater tank and it works fine.

I build my own two float setup and it works flawlessly.

I am hoping that I dont have to take this offline, as I feel like I am cleaning it and resetting every couple days as well..ends up being just as much work as manually topping off. Maybe it is the salt that is blocking the sensor, idk. Having to clean the sensors constantly and worry about over-dosing kalk is not what I had in mind when I purchased this ato.

I did some more research and ordered a small ball valve to put on the tubing. I am going to turn the ball valve to the lowest flow possible, and see if the slow top off water flow gives the sensors a chance to detect the max water level. I do not feel like buying another (3rd) pump, and I am having a hard time finding a pump with less than 50gph flow. Will update.

Can you tell me a little about your 2 float setup? I do have a traditional float valve on hand.

 

[dantimdad]

I use a 12 volt relay with two float switches. One the normal way to turn the pump on when the level drops. The other flipped over so it shuts the pump off if the water gets to high.

Works like a charm.

 

[FishyDP]

I use a 12 volt relay with two float switches. One the normal way to turn the pump on when the level drops. The other flipped over so it shuts the pump off if the water gets to high.

Works like a charm.

That is a great idea. If the ball valve does not work I am going to look into this further.

 

[dantimdad]

If you need help with it, send me a message. I have extra onron relays. They are rock solid.

 

[FishyDP]

If you need help with it, send me a message. I have extra onron relays. They are rock solid.

Awesome, thank you.

 

[FishyDP]

Well, I put a ball valve on the reservoir line and dialed down flow to almost a trickle. Seems to be working a little better, still getting the occasional max level sensor alarm. Will see how it does over the next couple weeks.