[FishKid]

ok, Im going on vacation in a few weeks, and need to set up a top-off system, to handle the evaporation. I got some good answers from reefboard.com, and wanted to see if anyone had a different Idea.

The way i was thinking of setting it up, is using a "gas can" and making it air tight, run one air line to the tank, and another one back to an air pump on a timer, anyone have a better idea?

mark

[Biomanjcs72]

Get a large container, one that can be sealed. Run some small diameter (larger than airline) flexible tubing out of it and seal it. set that over your sump (or tank) and jimmy the end of the flexible tubing to where you want your water level to be. as the water level drops, air gets in the tubing, water escapes the container, when the water level rises above the level of the tubing, no more air, no more water.

You do, however, have to be able to test and make sure that your container is COMPLETELY airtight, or air will leak in, water will leak out, etc. You'll have a big mess.

[organicreefer]

use a float valve i would be leary of leaving the system you propose for an extended period,especially right after you set it up

[Reefland]

I agree with organicreefer. See if you can get a relative or friend to top it off while your away. I know unexperienced relatives can be dangerous but so is an un-tested top-off system.

Scott

[FishKid]

sad to say, I dont have relatives that can do it. And my mom wont let me have my friend do it...

I think I will keep the lights off while Im gone, then I wouldnt even have to top-off...

mark

[FishKid]

looks like Im not going on vacation, even though I want to... my dad wont let me build a top-off system, because he thinks it will flood.

mark

[organicreefer]

fishkid , a rubbermaid container/garbage can(5-10 bucks),a bulkhead(10 bucks) tubing(if you dont hve it 5 bucks) and a float valve(15 bucks)
so for 50 bucks(easily)you have a virtually fool proof top off
if not then maybe youll have the house to youreself(party? )
also the kent float valve is also a bulkhead so you could just place a garbage can full of water right on the rim of youre tank and connect the float valve to it (it can adjust to hang down slightly to the water surface)and theres no wqay that can leak

[FishKid]

The party will be great, if it comes down to me staying! I'll look into that one. I will have to really butter my dad up, he has every reason to believe that I will ^%&$ this one up! (for ex. I once lit the kitchen on fire!)

mark

[srgtkoons]

one thing with float valves. If you have it in the main tank or anyplace that a potential snail or somthing might climb into it. Its a good idea to take a piece of large diameter PVC and attach fiberglass screen to both sides but allowing the float valve enough freedom to keep swinging up and down. Just a little sidenote i feel is important an often missed. I know from experience.