Kalk precipitation caused osmolator fail

[TexAgReefer]

So I came home to my tank full of air bubbles. I have a Tunze Osmolator for my ATO. It showed that the tank level was good but obviously had not topped off in a while and the return chamber was running dry.

Found the optical sensor with precipitation on it from topping off with kalk.

Should I not run my top off water in my return chamber since I’m using kalk? Or should I just clean it more often?

 

[AllSignsPointToFish]

I used a hydor ATO which seemed to be less sensitive to calcium carbonate deposition. I'd clean it more often.

I also ran my ATO with kalk in the return chamber for quicker mixing.

 

[TexAgReefer]

I used a hydor ATO which seemed to be less sensitive to calcium carbonate deposition. I'd clean it more often.

I also ran my ATO with kalk in the return chamber for quicker mixing.

I think it’s mostly that film that forms at the top of the water. It wasn’t hard to clean off, just some vinegar on a paper towel.

Any reason not to run the ATO return into the chamber prior to the return?

 

[AllSignsPointToFish]

I think it’s mostly that film that forms at the top of the water. It wasn’t hard to clean off, just some vinegar on a paper towel.

Any reason not to run the ATO return into the chamber prior to the return?

I didn't want to do that because it will cause high localized pH, and I have macroalgae in there. It would work if there are no sensitive organisms or equipment in that chamber.

 

[TexAgReefer]

I didn't want to do that because it will cause high localized pH, and I have macroalgae in there. It would work if there are no sensitive organisms or equipment in that chamber.

I only have heaters, skimmer, and probes in there.

 

[AllSignsPointToFish]

That could cause buildup on the heaters, but otherwise should work.

 

[dragon99]

I had that problem a few times a couple months ago. No problems for a year or so then started building up on the optical sensor every few days suddenly. I relocated the ATO tubing the back of the sump just before the bubble trap to the return chamber. Previously it was at the front. No problems since.

 

[TexAgReefer]

I had that problem a few times a couple months ago. No problems for a year or so then started building up on the optical sensor every few days suddenly. I relocated the ATO tubing the back of the sump just before the bubble trap to the return chamber. Previously it was at the front. No problems since.

Thanks. This is what I was considering doing. It’s a high flow area where it shouldn’t puddle up but won’t build on the surface either.