Automated Water Change when on holiday

[JFJ]

I am new to the forum and if a thread with this topic already exist then please direct me to it.

Did anyone install a DIY fully automated Water Change system that works on a timer of some sorts with water level sensors to replace a percentage of water from your sump from a premix saltwater reservoir? It must be fail safe since the changes need to happen when I am not at home.

It seems doable but after searching the internet and forums like this I can not find a proper DIY solution. I do have a solution in my mind that seems to simple and need to know the pitfalls to look out for.

 

[ESH]

Hi welcome to the forums! There are quite a few ways to set this up, and one of the more popular ways is through the Neptune Systems DOS. I have this setup on my own system for 5gl / week. I'd recommend to test it out before you go out of town so that you know you have it calibrated and configured correctly.

Heres a youtube video from Neptune Systems on how it works

 

[blstravler]

There are many different ways to do an AWC. I guess budget is the big factor?
As stated above you can do this via Apex but that’s in the higher end of any budget.

I’ve seen a few people use this which is more budget friendly-

AWC Auto Water Changer (Plus ATO)

Auto Water Change Plus Auto Top Off Change your reef tank's water automatically with AutoAqua's AWC system. AWC & ATO All-In-One. Water changes are one of the most time-consuming maintenance tasks with saltwater aquariums. There has been plenty of debate over how much water you should change...

www.bulkreefsupply.com

I do my AWC via two Versa pumps - cost was about $300.

 

[blstravler]

You could always get two small pumps (maxi jet 600) and two timers and run them for the same amount of time to push/pull water out?

 

[Cjshank0]

Personally would recommend Apex, but any type of controller that allows you to install sensors and failsafes will do. The last thing you want is to go and think it’s working properly and then come home to a flood.

Neptune makes the optical sensors that you can program to control pumps based on the water level. The ATK kit comes with added insurance with a float too!

(For the record - still very new to apex but working on a 150 build and ATO and AWC is key to maintenance for me. Saves a TON of time and if done right...peace of mind )

 

[JFJ]

I do my AWC via two Versa pumps - cost was about $300.

You could always get two small pumps (maxi jet 600) and two timers and run them for the same amount of time to push/pull water out?

Im looking for a simple DIY solution like the one you mention.

It seems simple, use two pumps on a normal timer that is used on a hot water system to start the two pumps simultaneously, with two flow switches that will switch the incoming pump off when the level rise to fast and one that switch the outgoing pump off when the level drops to far, with a boll valve to stop the water should the electronics fail, add a few siphon stops and their you go. It just seem to simple and therefore I would like to hear from someone that did it already and can highlight the pitfalls