Question about auto top off r/o float

[hrdneglcry]

Hi. I could use some help in installing these auto top off float arms. They are designed to hook up to R/O but I was told I could put them in my sumps and connect fresh water to them to keep the sumps level. I don't want to drill the sumps but saw where you can silicone a bracket into the sump and put this in that. Now the questions. This doesn't really move. Neithetnine does I have two. I guess it does move a little and although I know how its supposed to work I don't see how it actually does. So I need help installing it. How do I get a hose into the end of it? Do I just put the bobber into the water? The range it moves is only about 1/4"

 

[MnFish1]

Hi. I could use some help in installing these auto top off float arms. They are designed to hook up to R/O but I was told I could put them in my sumps and connect fresh water to them to keep the sumps level. I don't want to drill the sumps but saw where you can silicone a bracket into the sump and put this in that. Now the questions. This doesn't really move. Neithetnine does I have two. I guess it does move a little and although I know how its supposed to work I don't see how it actually does. So I need help installing it. How do I get a hose into the end of it? Do I just put the bobber into the water? The range it moves is only about 1/4"

There are a couple things here - that may be an issue. I do not know about a bracket - but would be leery of using one - unless you're absolutely certain it's not going to give way, etc - why? Because of point 2 - its never (or almost never - without multiple fail safes) - to use that type of switch to connect toanything but a set amount of water (like lets say 3-5 gallons - as compared to an RO unit. The reason - you do not want to overflow the sump incase the float switch fails (and this has happened numerous times).

if - on the other hand you plan to say keep an elevated amount of a certain amount of water attached - the risk is low - and the only potential problem would be if your water level gets too high - and your skimmer is in deeper water - it could then overflow.

in any case - sorry this was long - I'm sure someone will know which kind of bracket you are talking about - or know how to make one.

As to how the valve works - when it is in the position you have holding in picture (1) - that is the setting at which water will be being introduced. As water raises the float to a certain level - that will rise - and the water will be cut off. It might be possible (but I dont think so) - that it could also be the opposite. One way to test - put a water connection (in a sink) - and figure out which way stops the flow - and which way allows flow - then you will know the correct orientation