Topoff systems - direct connect vs reservoir - Aquarium Advice

Serpentman · 05-07-2006, 06:38 PM

Hello all,

I am in the early stages of setting up a 92g reef tank. One thing that is abundantly clear is that I will require an auto-topoff system. Because space is limited under the tank, I am considering plumbing my system directly to an RO/DI system with a timer as a safeguard should the solenoid stick in the open position.

However, recently, I have begun to consider utilizing a reservoir along with a peristaltic pump (which should have no problem pumping from the next room.) My thoughts were that this would make it easier should I decided to incorporate kalkwasser into the mix.

I have 2 questions, is one system recommended over the other? How do those of you that direct connect incorporate kalkwasser?

Interests: Reptiles, SW Aquaria

ryguy · 05-07-2006, 07:40 PM

Quote:

I am considering plumbing my system directly to an RO/DI system with a timer as a safeguard should the solenoid stick in the open position.

IMO, I don't think you need a timer for this. Using a float valve will stop the water from overfilling the sump and typically can handle a fair amount of pressure. In the case that your solenoid does fail, the only result would be continous waste water production.

ellisz · 05-08-2006, 02:35 PM

I use a reservoir for my set up. I normally don't have more water in it that my sump can't absorb. I don't want any messes. I have a 2 float valve set up as well to kill the pump if the water gets to high but I want to be safe.

Serpentman · 05-08-2006, 09:42 PM

I have decided to proceed along the lines of a direct connect setup. I am going to implement a pressure switch with a float switch backup. This will allow the water to drop 1" so when the RO/DI kicks on it will flow long enough to build pressure an maintain effectiveness. Also, for additional safety, I found the following that I will put inline. Its a water alarm designed for refrigerators that will switch off the solenoid if triggered.

https://www.thewateralarm.com/produc...=6&idproduct=7

05-07-2006, 06:38 PM	#1
Serpentman Aquarium Advice Activist Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: NE Ohio Posts: 133	Topoff systems - direct connect vs reservoir Hello all, I am in the early stages of setting up a 92g reef tank. One thing that is abundantly clear is that I will require an auto-topoff system. Because space is limited under the tank, I am considering plumbing my system directly to an RO/DI system with a timer as a safeguard should the solenoid stick in the open position. However, recently, I have begun to consider utilizing a reservoir along with a peristaltic pump (which should have no problem pumping from the next room.) My thoughts were that this would make it easier should I decided to incorporate kalkwasser into the mix. I have 2 questions, is one system recommended over the other? How do those of you that direct connect incorporate kalkwasser? Interests: Reptiles, SW Aquaria

05-08-2006, 02:35 PM	#3
ellisz Aquarium Advice Addict Moderator Emeritus Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Indiana USA Posts: 2,676 Images: 9	I use a reservoir for my set up. I normally don't have more water in it that my sump can't absorb. I don't want any messes. I have a 2 float valve set up as well to kill the pump if the water gets to high but I want to be safe. __________________ 180 gal Display, 100 gal basement sump, 33 gal refugium, 3x250 MH, 2x160 VHO actinics, zoos, some softies, LPS & lots of acros and other SPS. 100 gal prop tank plumbed into main system w/ 2x96 PC lights and 1x150 MH,

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05-08-2006, 09:42 PM	#4
Serpentman Aquarium Advice Activist Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: NE Ohio Posts: 133	I have decided to proceed along the lines of a direct connect setup. I am going to implement a pressure switch with a float switch backup. This will allow the water to drop 1" so when the RO/DI kicks on it will flow long enough to build pressure an maintain effectiveness. Also, for additional safety, I found the following that I will put inline. Its a water alarm designed for refrigerators that will switch off the solenoid if triggered. https://www.thewateralarm.com/produc...=6&idproduct=7