Reef octopus Automatic Drainage

[Tangdora]

Hi all. Some I’m wrapping up the plumbing on my new build and I think I may have completely overlook/misinterpret something on my my reef octopus regal external skimmer. It has a valve at the bottom that the instruction say is an automatic drainage. Can some tell me exactly what its real function is. This whole time I have been thinking this was just a way to drain the body when it can time to clean so you don’t break anything trying to lift out but now as I look at it’s Design more. Thinking now it may not be the case. Few of the question I’m trying to figure out are below.

1) what is it real function and what has to occur in the unit for it to start to discharge.
2) why is it needed when the cup has a drain and float switch
3) does it drain clean tank watch that can be return or is it more of a waste drain
4) is it a gravity fed drain or pressurize allowing the hose end to be higher then the unit
5) is it optional. Can unit be run with valve closed.

Any insight appreciated thanks.

 

[Jamie814]

It's just to drain the skimmer body to clean or move the skimmer as the skimmer is very heavy when full of water. A shop vac will empty the skimmer just as well.

I have it on mine and have never used it. A shop vac works much better to suck out the dirtrus that accumulates in the bottom of the skimmer.

 

[Tangdora]

My original thoughts as well. Perhaps I’m over thinking it. The word “automatic” in the manual is just throwing me off as if this can do more on a day to day to maximize the overall performance or safety control of the skimmer