Optical sensor for ATO?

[jgvergo]

I finally have my system up and running See my build thread for details. I did not install an ATO but now that it is running, I find I can only go for a day before I need to top off the water. Is this normal?

Assuming it IS normal, I want to install an ATO. I already have an APEX gold system and a pump that goes from my freshwater reservoir to the sump. So I think the only things I need are low and high water level sensors for the sump.

I've read that optical sensors are more reliable than float switches. Can anyone recommend optical sensors that will work with my APEX?

As always, THANKS for the advice!

 

[thewbell]

I am using the Tunze Osmolator and just have it plugged into my Apex to turn it off for water changes or if my pH gets too high (I use kalk in my ATO). As far as I know, the only way to use an optical sensor with the Apex involves some DIY wiring and relays but Neptune announced they are going to start selling their own optical sensors and module to run them some time soon. I am holding out to see what the Neptune sensors and module cost and might switch to that from my Osmolator and move it to another tank, but at this point I trust it more than floats.

 

[Salt It Away]

I finally have my system up and running See my build thread for details. I did not install an ATO but now that it is running, I find I can only go for a day before I need to top off the water. Is this normal?

Assuming it IS normal, I want to install an ATO. I already have an APEX gold system and a pump that goes from my freshwater reservoir to the sump. So I think the only things I need are low and high water level sensors for the sump.

I've read that optical sensors are more reliable than float switches. Can anyone recommend optical sensors that will work with my APEX?

As always, THANKS for the advice!

+1 on the Tunze Ozmolator. I run this on my Apex also. It will top off several times a day. It has performed flawlessly to date.

 

[jgvergo]

I am using the Tunze Osmolator and just have it plugged into my Apex to turn it off for water changes or if my pH gets too high (I use kalk in my ATO). As far as I know, the only way to use an optical sensor with the Apex involves some DIY wiring and relays but Neptune announced they are going to start selling their own optical sensors and module to run them some time soon. I am holding out to see what the Neptune sensors and module cost and might switch to that from my Osmolator and move it to another tank, but at this point I trust it more than floats.

I actually prefer to do some DIY wiring - I have some strong geek tendencies. If you have any pointers to threads that document proven approaches, that would be great!

 

[thewbell]

I actually prefer to do some DIY wiring - I have some strong geek tendencies. If you have any pointers to threads that document proven approaches, that would be great!

Here is a thread over on the Apex forum I looked over and decided to wait. I am a DIY guy as a mechanical engineer I learned long ago electricity was not my forte so I leave that alone.

https://forum.neptunesystems.com/sh...-level-sensor-compatability-with-Breakout-Box