Auto-Top Off Options

[stscream4187]

Does anyone here use some sort of auto-top off solution other than a rainwater harvesting system?

I have an RO/DI system (150GPD) and use it for my saltwater/reef tanks. I am mapping out a way to run a line and hook up a float valve in my skimmer box to keep the level constant. My pond is roughly 1000-1100 gallons. And this way never have to worry about any contaminants getting in (by way of me at least). I could not find anyone doing this via searching and started to think maybe there is a reason why that I have not thought of yet. I will have an easy way to disconnect in the winter.

Appreciate any/all feedback. Thanks!

 

[EricV]

Why a valve? I've topped off two different ways (trickle watering system and timer on a hose). In both cases I match the inflow rate to 150-200% of the evaporation rate and let the overflow do its job.

 

[stscream4187]

Why a valve? I've topped off two different ways (trickle watering system and timer on a hose). In both cases I match the inflow rate to 150-200% of the evaporation rate and let the overflow do its job.

The float valve would keep the water level and volume constant at all times. And I wouldnt need to worry about conditioning the water because it’s heavily filtered. I don’t have a way to calculate an evaporation rate, would change constantly in my area. By overflow, do you mean pond overflow? I don’t have a built in overflow for the pond unless you mean something else.

 

[rubyduby]

I have the Aquascape auto fill system and it works great...Living in Florida causes a lot of evaporation...It is similar to a toilet bowl ball system and is installed in my skimmer....

 

[stscream4187]

I have the Aquascape auto fill system and it works great...Living in Florida causes a lot of evaporation...It is similar to a toilet bowl ball system and is installed in my skimmer....

I didn’t know they made something like, but after looking this is essentially what I want to do. I’ll just need different hook ups.

Do you have any pictures of it installed?

 

[seandelevan]

Timer on a hose. I have roughly the same size pond as you. At around 5 am it runs for about 10 minutes a day. boom. Done.

 

[stscream4187]

Timer on a hose. I have roughly the same size pond as you. At around 5 am it runs for about 10 minutes a day. boom. Done.

You use tap water right into the pond? No issues with that? I was thinking it had to be conditioned or filtered first.

 

[Lisak1]

Adding a small volume of water Isn’t an issue. If I run my hose for five minutes it’s only 10 gallons of water.

 

[YShahar]

I bought the Aquascape autoflow valve, and although I have yet to install it, it looks well made. It also came with several different size connectors, which means fewer trips to the hardware store.

 

[rubyduby]

Here you go..looks like debri in skimmer but there is none so must be a reflection

 

[stscream4187]

Here you go..looks like debri in skimmer but there is none so must be a reflection

Awesome, thank you!

 

[seandelevan]

You use tap water right into the pond? No issues with that? I was thinking it had to be conditioned or filtered first.

I’m on a well.

 

[GBBUDD]

Timer on a hose. I have roughly the same size pond as you. At around 5 am it runs for about 10 minutes a day. boom. Done.

I took that same idea and went a bit further as if that timer breaks and the water gets left open then it could be disastrous . simple solution is to have two timer boxes that go on at the same time . if one breaks the other will control the flow

 

[Ronfire]

I use a auto water float for a animal stock tank, works great and cheap. Have them on my horse water tanks as well.

 

[addy1]

I have mine on a yard sprinkler system. Set the timer to turn on at x time for x long. Can do a rain delay, I can also turn the water on remotely, like if we are not home and I can see the pond is low.