The Aquarium Level Controller uses a mounted float switch to maintain the water level in a sump or aquarium by turning on or off a connected device such as a dosing pump, power-head, or solenoid valve. The float switch connects to a low voltage logic circuit isolating the switch from the main power circuit ensuring safe operation even if the float switch is damaged or the wires cut. The float controller also includes an optional overflow time to prevent accidental tank overfilling. The Aquarium Level Controller comes standard with two float switches for multiple switch configurations and can be purchased with or without a solenoid valve (see below).
Aquarium Level Controller w/ 1 Switch
Aquarium Level Controller w/ Solenoid Valve
Features:
low voltage operation (only 5vdc at minimal current passes through the float switch)
Includes two independent float switches for maximum relaibility
Can be used with any AC powered device of up to 5 amps including dosing pumps, solenoids, or powerheads
Manual priming button for testing purposes
Optional overflow timer prevents accidental overflows by limiting the time the powered device will run
External fuse protects the circuit and your tank in case of a power surge or fault
Setup Instructions
The Float Controller should be placed in an area away from excessive moisture and salt spray. Mount the Controller through the mounting flanges in a secure area. Once mounted, plug in the relayed device into the AC socket on the controller. The maximum amperage of the connected device is 5 amps. Although it is most common to use a pump or solenoid with the controller, any AC powered device can be used. Next, attach the primary float switch to the controller at the position marked Float #1 in the picture to the right. The float switches use a latching connector that must be squeezed to be removed once in place. A secondary float switch can be attached to the right of the first in the position marked Float #2. The second float switch acts as a safety and can be set up in two configurations (see below). The float switches are marked with a dot at the top of the float to indicate the configuration of the switch. To change the configuration of a float switch (from normally on to normally off or vice-versa), pull off the retaining clip on the bottom of the switch, remove the float, reinsert the float in the opposite direction, and replace the retaining clip. Place the primary float switch with the middle of the stem at the water level you wish to maintain. Make sure the wall and suction cups are clean to ensure good contact between the surfaces. Optionally, you can place a bead of silicone on the inside of the suction cups for a more permanent placement. The following three scenarios are the most common configurations used with the Aquarium Level Controller:
CONFIGURATION A
With only one float switch attached, the relay will activate (and turn on your pump or solenoid) when the float drops. This configuration is used when maintaining the water level in your sump or aquarium and you are not using a second float switch.
CONFIGURATION B
A second float switch can be used to prevent accidental overflows due to the primary float switch becoming stuck in the on position. The secondary switch is mounted above the primary in the same tank. If the water level rises to the level of the secondary switch, the controller will deactivate the relay.
CONFIGURATION C
A second float switch can also be used to prevent a fresh water supply tank from running dry and thereby prevent damage to the pump. The secondary float is operated in the “flipped” position and mounted at the bottom of the supply tank. If the supply tank runs dry, the secondary float switch will deactivate the relay.
Once setup, the Aquarium Level Controller will automatically maintain the correct water level. When the relay is activated, the status light will illuminate. If the status light is blinking overflow timer has been tripped (see below). To manually activate the relay, push the red prime button. The Controller includes a one second turn on delay to prevent relay “chatter” (rapid switching on and off) and neutralize the effect of waves on the float switch. Overflow Timer
Overflow Timer
With the overfill protection adjustment, you can control the maximum duration the device will run at a time (between 6 and 24 minutes). When the Overflow Timer is tripped (by exceeding the time limit) the device will turn off for 24 hours or until the timer is reset by pushing the prime button. When the Overflow Timer is tripped, the status light will blink. This feature is used to prevent situations where the float switch becomes stuck or malfunctions and continuously fills the tank leading to an overflow. This safety mechanism can be shut off by turning the switch all the way to the left (where it will audibly “click”). The setting for the safety mechanism will depend on the flow rate of the controlled device. Remember that the evaporation rate of your aquarium will change due to outside temperature fluctuations and a time setting used in the winter may be too short for the summer.
Optional AC Solenoid
As an option, we sell the Aquarium Level Controller with an AC powered solenoid valve. A solenoid valve is used when connecting directly to an RO/DI system eliminating the need for a freshwater supply tank. The solenoid comes preinstalled with 1/4" John Guest quick-disconnect fittings and uses insulated 1/4" spade tabs for the electrical connections. A six foot power cord connects the solenoid to the controller (not shown).
Aquarium Level Controller w/ Solenoid Valve
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