This DIY Automatic Top Off System consists of a saddle valve to tap into an existing cold water pipe (usually found under the sink in the kitchen or bathroom), a length of 1/4" plastic (NOT copper) tubing from the saddle valve down through the floor, under the house, then up through the floor under or behind the aquarium. A float valve is installed either in the tank or in the sump. A tap water filter is installed in the water line at either the aquarium or saddle valve end.
Tools needed:
- Portable Drill
- 5/16" Long Shaft Drill Bit
- 7/16" Drill Bit
- Scissors
- Adjustable Wrench (or Box End, Open End Wrenches)
- Phillips Screw Driver
Supplies Needed:
- Caulking
- Wire Staples
- Stiff Wire
- Tape
Parts needed:
- Saddle Valve
- Tap Water filter
- Float Valve
- Electric Float Switch
- Solenoid Valve
- 1/4' Flexible Hose
The Auto Top Off graphic above shows the basic set up of the Auto Top Off System with a second Electric Float Switch and solenoid installed as a fail safe to prevent sump overflow.
