There are many X10-based automations, but since
pretty all the equip. are in one location, I usually use relays
instead. There are cons and pros of each type, but IMO, it
is easier to trouble shoot.
The most common item on reef tank to be automated is light.
For this, I just use regular applicance timer. Those that are
into astronmical timing (moonlight simulation) may use more
sophicated timer, but I am not a big fan of it.
Another item is topoff. This topic is a whole field by itself.
I prefer to use electric solenoid-based automation because
of the reliability compare to mechanical valves, such as floats.
-- Reef Box Etc
Lights: Appliance timers
Top off: Can't beat a litermeter. After years in this hobby,
I ahve read dozens of posts about tank crahses after a float
valve failed or how the RO/DI unit kept going, etc. I have
read only one bad story with a litermeter failing. Even that
one I think it iwas a lie LOL............
CaCO3: Oversized kalk reactor. Pays for itself over time.
Huge CaCO3 demands: Large Ca reactor. You thank god someone
invented this stuff.
Testing: Probes and probes. pH, temp, salinity
Water changes: Large water container connected via a pump
to your sump, so a water change becomes turning 4 valves in
5 minutes.
I have found over time that the best automation tool is actually
common sense. If you take 5 seconds to looks at your equipment
daily, you will avoid 99% of the problems others have.
-- dgasmd
I use a SWCD as a surge device for an above tank refugium.
The intermittment surge created by the SWCD allows for a more
realistic wave-action as the refugium ebbs and flows into the
display area. The other end of the SWCD is just piped into
the main tank as additional flow.
While i've seen some other cool surge setups here I think
the SWCD is a very simple and useful device for creating more
naturalistic wave/surge action for those DIY-challenged (like
myself). It's sorta automation.
I've found my corals/livestock respond better to the intermittment
flows (waves) than a constant flow (streams/river), regardless
of respective flow rates. I've also found that my plankton
tend to flow better (thru a drain) with a varying surge rather
than a constant trickle/flow. I guess the water's surface tension
affects the buildup of scum/crappie at the drain. This is for
the typical gravity-output refugium. It just tends to get clogged
over time.
-- rcsjeng
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