One of the most critical aspects of a successful dosing regime is making sure you don’t run out of dosing solutions. Of course, you can always visually monitor your dosing on a regular schedule. However, you can automate the process by adding a float switch to trigger a message or alarm when your dosing solutions run low.
Types of Float Switches
Here are the most common types of float switches used for aquariums today:
- Vertical Float Switch: This type of float switch is both simple to use and very reliable, since the float can only move upward and downward. It is commonly used for automatically topping off liquids in a dosing container or RO water in the sump.
- Horizontal Float Switch: Commonly used to top off water, this type of float switch is usually attached directly to the line that supplies the top-off water. As the liquid level in the aquarium or sump decreases, the float opens and allows top-off water to enter the system.
- Optical Sensor: Optical sensors use infrared light and do not have any moving parts. These are ideal for environments where more traditional float switches won’t fit or function.
How to Install a Float Switch into a Simplicity Dosing Container
Installing your Simplicity Float Switch into your Simplicity Dosing Container is as easy as slipping it into the appropriate location, followed by routing the cables out of the top.
Here is a simple step-by-step:
- Attach float to mount inside dosing container.
- Route the cable out from the top of the dosing container.
- Connect wire leads to controller or other device.
Most Common Ways to Use a Float Switch
There are a number of ways to set up your float switch to trigger a notification or alarm for reminders to check and address your fluid level. Here are a couple of the most common ways to do this:
- Connect to Aquarium Controller: This is by far the most common way to do this. You can simply connect the wire leads from the float switch to a “break out box” or other component of your aquarium controller. Your controller can then trigger an SMS or other alert to notify you when your solution levels are running low.
- Simple Light or Audible Alarm: Connect the switch directly in series with a light, alarm or other device that you can operate with a small battery. This option takes some creativity and knowledge of electrical components, but it is far less expensive than an aquarium controller.
Once set up is finished, you’ll want to test the alert system to ensure you have it wired correctly. We recommend doing this when the container is empty. This way, you can simply reach in and trigger the switch manually with your hand.
If you are using a Simplicity float switch kit, the switch connection will be closed (the wires connected) when there is liquid in the container and the float is in the up position. The connection will then be open or interrupted when the float drops due to a lack of liquid.
As always, we are here to help! Let us know if you need any assistance or have questions about your Simplicity product.