DIY ATO?

• Dec 9, 2013

• #1

kbuser92

Breeder

Anybody done this? Or am I better off buying one? Here's a link to the one I found that's within budget and its pretty much plug and play.

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/autoaqua-smart-ato-auto-top-off-system.html

 

• Dec 9, 2013

• #2

Aquarian

Reef pro

That looks like a nice setup.

 

• Dec 9, 2013

• #3

kbuser92

Breeder

Yeah, but I was just wondering if there's a cheaper route or even DIY. A few dollars is enough for some frags. ;)

 

• Dec 9, 2013

• #4

Aquarian

Reef pro

I'm sure if you wanted to spend the time making it you could pick up some float switches, the pump they are using you can get at amazon for about $12, air line is cheep, I bet you have access to scrap acrylic at work. You could probably make it for around $50. If you have the time to spend on it.

 

• Dec 9, 2013

• #5

rrbigdog

Reefing newb

You can make a DIY ATO.... Solid State Relay ($8), Float Switch($3), Tom Aqua Lifter Pump ($10-15), free old phone charge cable and a container....works great.

 

• Dec 10, 2013

• #6

Big K

Reefing newb

I've been looking at that one as well. It's pretty slick looking!

 

• Dec 10, 2013

• #7

Steveg229

Addicted

If you have the room, I did a diy gravity feed ATO for about $20. I used a 6 gallon Rubbermaid container placed on a small shelf above the waterline of sump. Installed a plastic float valve in the acrylic partition and a quick connect fitting on the jug. Works great.

 

• Dec 11, 2013

• #8

Big K

Reefing newb

Yeah, I've been debating on doing that as well and saving the cash so I can upgrade to LEDs! :thumbsup: