This is a really clever ATO (auto top up) that was made by a member of ultimatereef.net and best of all doesn't require any electricity so it won't fail.
First of all, you need a food safe container with a "snap-on" lid.
I then drill a hole on one side to take a 90 degree connector. Install plumbing as needed...blah blah blah. Silicone or use a rubber washer to ensure a water tight seal (VERY important!).
Then measure the distance from the connector to the surface of the water in the sump and cut a piece of plastic pipe. This pipe is inserted into the tank connector. The pipe is sufficiently tight fit to be waterproof, glue into place.
Before you use it, you need to make sure that air cannot enter the container by any route other than the end of the pipe. Otherwise the water will just leak into the tank.
I altered the original project as they were just covering the hole with their finger to stop the water from flowing while inserting into the tank. I will add a shut off so after you open the valve the first time, the pipe will fill with water, then close the valve, open the lid and top off the top off :. Seal the top off tank and open the valve. As long as you have a seal tight container, water will not flow until the water level drops below the hole in the pipe allowing air to go up in the pipe and water down it. Once the water level rises above the hole, no more water will be added.
Let me know what you think!?!?!
Original Pic With adaptions
Example of the original installed in a sump
First of all, you need a food safe container with a "snap-on" lid.
I then drill a hole on one side to take a 90 degree connector. Install plumbing as needed...blah blah blah. Silicone or use a rubber washer to ensure a water tight seal (VERY important!).
Then measure the distance from the connector to the surface of the water in the sump and cut a piece of plastic pipe. This pipe is inserted into the tank connector. The pipe is sufficiently tight fit to be waterproof, glue into place.
Before you use it, you need to make sure that air cannot enter the container by any route other than the end of the pipe. Otherwise the water will just leak into the tank.
I altered the original project as they were just covering the hole with their finger to stop the water from flowing while inserting into the tank. I will add a shut off so after you open the valve the first time, the pipe will fill with water, then close the valve, open the lid and top off the top off :. Seal the top off tank and open the valve. As long as you have a seal tight container, water will not flow until the water level drops below the hole in the pipe allowing air to go up in the pipe and water down it. Once the water level rises above the hole, no more water will be added.
Let me know what you think!?!?!
Original Pic With adaptions
Example of the original installed in a sump