Apex Flow Monitoring Module To Prevent Overflowing Tank.

HI all,

I currently run a durso style overflow, but also have an emergency drain right next to it in the event that something clogs my main drain. The main drain is shielded by a cap with small holes so that no large snails can get in. However, I do still get paranoid that somehow they may find their way in there (or if they ever had babies, the babies would be able to fit). So apart from having an emergency drain, I was also thinking of having one of the following. Either:

- a float switch in the overflow section that would shut off my return pump if the flow went too high (i.e. if something clogged the drain and the water level began to rise in the display/overflow).

- buy an Apex FMM with the optical level sensor and have that in the overflow. That way if the water starts to rise then I would program it to shut my return pump off.

What do you guys think? I'd prefer the first method as it is likely cheaper and almost as efficient, but I can't seem to find a float switch that already has a relay and AC/DC adapter built in. I don't want to wire stuff, especially not into my return pump (jebao DCS3000)

Thanks for any help

 

Was thinking maybe this one for the first option
Double Switch Auto top-off with controller and sump mount

I'm from Canada so this would be one my go to online stores.

 

Bump! Wish I could help with this... Perhaps Culprit has something to say, as he's been working on building an ATO requiring float switches.

 

- a float switch in the overflow section that would shut off my return pump if the flow went too high (i.e. if something clogged the drain and the water level began to rise in the display/overflow).

I wouldn't do this unless your return pump is rated for back pressure. It would likely burn the pump out.

- buy an Apex FMM with the optical level sensor and have that in the overflow. That way if the water starts to rise then I would program it to shut my return pump off.

Best option, but expensive.

What do you guys think? I'd prefer the first method as it is likely cheaper and almost as efficient, but I can't seem to find a float switch that already has a relay and /DC adapter built in. I don't want to wire stuff, especially not into my return pump (jebao DCS3000)

Its easy to DIY one. It may seem like a big project but its not. Several stores sell premade DIY ATO's which you can flip the float switch so if water goes up it switches off. Or buy your own. All you need is a float switch, a 12 volt DC relay and relay socket, a 12 volt wall adapter, and a short power cord. King of DIY did a good video on it, and I could walk you through it if you wanted.

 

I wouldn't do this unless your return pump is rated for back pressure. It would likely burn the pump out.

Can you elaborate on the back pressure that would be caused on the pump? Also, wouldn’t doing the DIY float switch cause the same thing?

Thanks for the help! Much appreciated

 

Your float valve would just close the end of the hose, basically like just putting your thumb over it. Your pump would still be trying to go, but building up pressure as it keeps shoving water up. If its not rated for the extra pressure it will burn it out.

No, the DIY float switch will close a relay which will turn off power to your pump. Just turning it off.

 

Oh okay, thanks!

When I initially said float switch I meant the switch that would cut power to the return pump if the water went above the line. Kind of like how my ATO pump turns on and off to replace evaporated water. My apologies for any confusion I may have caused!

 

Ohhhh OK. That makes sense. In that case whichever will work just fine. The Apex will be more expensive, but more reliable, but the float switc will be very reliable too as it won't be underwater.