Sensor Setup Recommendations

TCoach · Oct 8, 2021

Hey Everyone,

I was able to order an extra float sensor with my BRS order, and am wondering how you would recommend setting up the sensors for ATO.

Available Sensors:
2x Float
1x Optical

Currently, I have one float sensor in my ATO RODI container to alert when low. The new float and optical sensors are not in use. I want to replace my 3rd party ATO system with the GHL. So how would you setup the sensors?

A. Optical in RODI and 2 floats in sump
B. Float in RODI and sump with Float on top and Optical lower
C. Float in RODI and sump with Optical on top and Float lower

Which option do you all use? Which one do you feel is the safest route (I know nothing with electronics is 100% foolproof/safe).

Thanks!

bdare · Oct 8, 2021

I use GHL for my ATO. I'm currently just running 2 sensors in my sump. I have an optical which triggers my ATO pump and a float a bit higher in case the pump gets stuck on. The "emergency float" also kills power to my skimmer to prevent it from overflowing. I'm considering adding a second float below the optical as I have had one instance where I let the optical get dirty and the water level got dangerously low.

I have also considered adding a sensor in my ATO container. At the moment it isn't necessary. The ATO will alarm me if it runs for more than like 10 seconds. This does a good job of letting me know the ATO needs to be refilled.

If I were you... I would put all 3 in the sump and use the alarm like I have it setup.

Vinny@GHLUSA · Oct 8, 2021

Here's one way to do it:

Sensor 1
Place this in your ATO reservoir and set it to the leakage detection function. Select the sensor and "invert" the reaction so it triggers the alarm only when the reservoir becomes empty.

Sensor 2
Use this for your single sensor ATO. You can use the built-in "max on-time" feature as a way to force the function and assigned powerbar socket to turn OFF in case the time limit is reached. That's your failsafe.

Sensor 3
Place this sensor just above your return pump inlet and set the function to leakage detection and enable "Reset error automatically". Select the sensor and "invert" the reaction. Assign this function to the outlet powering your return pump. If the water level drops to this lower sensor, it will turn OFF the pump and trigger the alarm.