Is this a good auto feeder?

Daniel@R2R · Dec 16, 2013

Is this a good auto feeder?

Current USA Aquachef Programmable Automatic Fish Feeder Aquarium Fish Feeders

What auto feeder would you recommend?

I don't particularly like auto feeders, but I'm planning to add wrasses and anthias to the 180, and I'm thinking this might be the best way to handle fish that need feeding multiple times a day.

Daniel@R2R · Dec 16, 2013

TJ's Reef · Dec 16, 2013

I have not used that one in particular but like using the Auto-Feeders in general for additional daily feedings or when away (obviously) The big problem with using Auto-feeders with Reeftanks is that unless food pellet/flake sinks quickly it ends up in the overflow and down to sump. I saw a DIY project in a magazine or book that I copied, it uses a acrylic cylinder that is partially submerged to capture food and release once has sunk. I see if I can find a pic of mine in a few minutes and then post it up for you to see if this application or similar may work on your system.

Cheers, Todd

Daniel@R2R · Dec 16, 2013

TJ's Reef said:
I have not used that one in particular but like using the Auto-Feeders in general for additional daily feedings or when away (obviously) The big problem with using Auto-feeders with Reeftanks is that unless food pellet/flake sinks quickly it ends up in the overflow and down to sump. I saw a DIY project in a magazine or book that I copied, it uses a acrylic cylinder that is partially submerged to capture food and release once has sunk. I see if I can find a pic of mine in a few minutes and then post it up for you to see if this application or similar may work on your system.

Cheers, Todd

That is an AWESOME idea! Please send a pic! That was my biggest concern.

redfishbluefish · Dec 16, 2013

I have two Eheim Everyday Feeders....and like them....they do the job.

As far as food going down the overflow....the best $2.50 you'll spend.....a feeding ring:

NutrafinÂ® Max Feeding Ring - Automated Feeders - Fish - PetSmart

stunreefer · Dec 16, 2013

redfishbluefish said:
I have two Eheim Everyday Feeders....and like them....they do the job.

As far as food going down the overflow....the best $2.50 you'll spend.....a feeding ring:

NutrafinÂ® Max Feeding Ring - Automated Feeders - Fish - PetSmart

Agreed 100%. The Current Aquachef is a joke, IME. I tossed in the garbage after a week.

You can remove the suction cup from Nutrafin feeding ring and epoxy a magnet to it if you feel the need over time.

Daniel@R2R · Dec 16, 2013

stunreefer said:
Agreed 100%. The Current Aquachef is a joke, IME. I tossed in the garbage after a week.

You can remove the suction cup from Nutrafin feeding ring and epoxy a magnet to it if you feel the need over time.

What didn't you like about it?

Mike in CT · Dec 16, 2013

I use a feeding ring that uses a suction cup that sticks to the inside of the tank and has a ring on an arm that floats . I have my feeder dispense over ring, and that mostly keeps my food from going down the overflow.

stunreefer · Dec 16, 2013

mdbannister said:
What didn't you like about it?

Construction was unbelievably cheap, very hard to control actual amount of food going into aquarium. If you held one next to an Eheim you would laugh... I did, anyways

I purchased it in a pinch for an aquarium where I had accidently dropped the Eheim into the tank. Needles to say I was back out the same week to replace with an Eheim. The Eheim also has a tiny built in fan that actually does help keep the food dry, which is a nice touch.

TJ's Reef · Dec 16, 2013

OK, just took some pics since couldn't find old ones anywhere. I also just use the Nutrifin Feeder but will upgrade to and modify this for an Eheim in near future. I made from scrap 1/4" acrylic and a short length of 2" cylinder material I had. I used a feeding ring for a short while but my Tangs kept knocking it away from the feeder, so this is a much better solution.

and on tank, made to fit my top bracing

Cheers, Todd

Daniel@R2R · Dec 16, 2013

TJ's Reef said:
OK, just took some pics since couldn't find old ones anywhere. I also just use the Nutrifin Feeder but will upgrade to and modify this for an Eheim in near future. I made from scrap 1/4" acrylic and a short length of 2" cylinder material I had. I used a feeding ring for a short while but my Tangs kept knocking it away from the feeder, so this is a much better solution.

and on tank, made to fit my top bracing

Cheers, Todd

That's REALLY nice! (made from scraps?? Your scraps look better than my intentional pieces!)

Any interest in making another??

stunreefer said:
Construction was unbelievably cheap, very hard to control actual amount of food going into aquarium. If you held one next to an Eheim you would laugh... I did, anyways I purchased it in a pinch for an aquarium where I had accidently dropped the Eheim into the tank. Needles to say I was back out the same week to replace with an Eheim. The Eheim also has a tiny built in fan that actually does help keep the food dry, which is a nice touch.

Thanks for the tip. There's a very small difference in price, so I think I'll save myself the tears and buy the eheim. Thanks again!