I am such an idiot

I agree. I'm looking into one myself. Topping every morning and night is getting old.

 

I built mine for less than 50 bucks. Home depot 5 gallon bucket, air line tubing, uncle toms lift pump and an E shoppes float valve in my sump. I put the bucket in a wicker basket next to the tank so no one has any idea what it is. I fill the bucket every few days and I'm good to go. I also have my thermometer positioned in the sump so that the water line is at the top of the thermometer. One quick open of the door and I can see immediately that everything is functioning properly.

 

I built mine for less than 50 bucks. Home depot 5 gallon bucket, air line tubing, uncle toms lift pump and an E shoppes float valve in my sump. I put the bucket in a wicker basket next to the tank so no one has any idea what it is. I fill the bucket every few days and I'm good to go. I also have my thermometer positioned in the sump so that the water line is at the top of the thermometer. One quick open of the door and I can see immediately that everything is functioning properly.

 

I need something on my setup also. I burn a gallon a day and my trusty LFS is on the other side of town. And don't feel bad, I think everyone on here can start a post with your title!

 

Hey Chris what does bump mean? Lol. Sorry I am a bit of a forum newb.

Here is the irony in all this; the tank looks the best its ever been! Everything is absolutely flourishing! Its sooo satisfying. Im going on vacation in 2 days for almost 10 days but I've hired a local reef tank curator/expert to tend to the tank. I hope it looks this good when i come back! I have gotten much more vigilant and carefult with top ups and keeping up the alk and it has really paid dividends.

 

I would run out and get stuff for an ATO now I would not trust anyone, regardless of skill level, to show up twice a day to keep my tank from crashing.

 

He's gonna come once a day...I think thats probably adequate...top off, feed fish/coral...empty skimmer cup if needed....test and top off alk....

 

I think you will find that an ATO will add stability to your system when you add it. It keeps the salinity very stable throughout the day instead of having to do one big top off. I assume you will be going over specific instructions with your temporary care taker and not just letting him do what he thinks is "right." Enjoy your vacation!!

 

LFS? Sounds like someone needs their own RO/DI

Nice job on the DIY ATO-

When I'm gone for a week or more, I have a local reefer come check on my stuff every 2-3 days.
I don't have an auto feeder- but fish can go days without that.
My DIY ATO is auto refill anyways.

No crashing here

 

I know I've rung this bell before, but its worth going to Todds build site to see how he has done his ATO and other things as well. Very simple and very little to go wrong but highly effective. All that and cost effective too.