View Full Version : Cheap DIY autofiller
zoowks
10-15-2008, 7:46 PM
I want a DIY where it fills in my brackish tank with premixed water to keep the tank at a certain height to counter the evaporation and having to add water constantly. Any links or suggestions on how to do this?
archer772
10-15-2008, 9:38 PM
You say premixed water?? just so you are aware only the water evaporates the salt stays behind
zoowks
10-15-2008, 9:40 PM
Yes, i know salt stays behind. I meant having a bucket above the tank that would allow water(what i called premixed) to refill the tank with water i had mixed with salt and conditioner just to act as a water top off. Still do regular water changes etc etc
Devilish
10-15-2008, 10:09 PM
The water you use to top off the tank should contain no salt at all. As water evaporates, the salt stays behind and your salinity raises. When you top off with fresh water this will balance off and keep salinity stable. That being said, try autotopoff.com. I purchased one there and had no complaints. By the time you try and do a DIY the $50 you spend on theirs is equal and more reliable than a DIY version.
zoowks
10-15-2008, 10:32 PM
Ah thanks for the info, I keep the tank at 1.006-8 and typically do water changes every 4 days of 20-30 % but i'm looking toward doing weekly 40-50% due to time constraints. that is why i wanted something for top offs that i don't do now.
wellsm2
10-25-2008, 11:25 AM
go to autotopoff.com I used one from there and has been running for two years with no problems.
Ah thanks for the info, I keep the tank at 1.006-8 and typically do water changes every 4 days of 20-30 % but i'm looking toward doing weekly 40-50% due to time constraints. that is why i wanted something for top offs that i don't do now.
we carry auto top offs if you are interested still!
The Zigman
10-27-2008, 5:14 PM
I got a cheap plastic float valve connected to my R/O..
it works fine and cost me like $12.