What kind of pump do folks use with their ATO

[markglover]

About to order the JBJ ATO system and I have a spare aquaclear 50 I was thinkin of using. Would that work OK? or do I need something smaller?

 

[theJ]

I use an aqualifter due to the fact they pump super slow and they are diaphragm based, so I can keep the ATO output tube submerged and not worry about backwards siphoning draining my tank.

 

[DonW]

I use an aqualifter due to the fact they pump super slow and they are diaphragm based, so I can keep the ATO output tube submerged and not worry about backwards siphoning draining my tank.

Agreed. I like the aqualifter for ato's. They are quiet, no start up noise and run silent. They easilly pull water up and out of containers. Might sound silly but I really like that little loop on the front to hang them on a wall or stand.

Don

 

[markglover]

Ok I know that the aqualifter pumps something like 3GPH

so would I need to adjust the run-time out for the JBJ ATO? By default it times out after 3 min 45 secs....thoughts?

 

[theJ]

Mark, I actually use a needle valve to drip 1 drop per second 24 hours a day as needed. My ato probably runs for a good 8 hours a day total off and on I would guess (very wild guess). I am not sure how you would relate that to the jbj and its timers. The 3min 45 seconds timeout is to prevent the overflowing dangers right? Thats why I use the needle valve, I just slow the 3gph to 1drop/sec with the valve and let it run all day for a more consistent top off. I also dose kalk through the ATO, so the idea there is to not OD the tank with kalk if I had a switch failure.

 

[DonW]

so would I need to adjust the run-time out for the JBJ ATO? By default it times out after 3 min 45 secs....thoughts?

Just depends on the size of the area being topped off. If its a sump with a small return area then 3 min. may be plenty. I think they max out at either 11 or 14 min. Either way thats plenty of time.

Don

 

[TWallace]

I use kalk in my top off, and I do not recommend the aqua lifter for that. The kalk will clog it frequently. I use a very low powered Via Aqua powerhead, I believe it's around 100gph. If you want really slow flow from it but want to use kalk, I'd get one of those mini-jets that are adjustable down to around 18gph.

 

[markglover]

Thanks for the great info! This really helps...

 

[mfinn]

I use a maxi-jet 1200 for the pump on my jbj ato. It has to travel 10'-11'.

 

[ronj]

i use an Aqualifter.. i have used one for at least the past year and it has never clogged or had any problems.. they only cost like $12 too!!!

 

[burning2nd]

i use a maxi jet 1200... but my ro tank is about 20 feet away and has 8 feet to clime