Auto top off and why we need it…

An important water parameter in the saltwater aquarium is salinity.  Compensation of freshwater back into the system to counter evaporation is critical to maintain stable salinity.  This can be done manually or automatically, though having it done automatically is best to minimize salinity swings. These days the cost of reliable auto top-off equipment is reasonable and easily available for most hobbyists.  More importantly, nano-tanks would benefit most due to the smaller volume of water present so impacts of evaporation can be more drastic unless tightly covered.

Auto top-offs require a reservoir to hold freshwater. This can be any container large enough to last 1 week or whatever your maintenance schedule allows to refill it.  Though “Fit, Form, and Function” is my motto for most equipment I purchase, sometime aesthetics can have a higher priority for some.

What is unique?

Recently I received two packages from our friends at Simplicity Aquatics.  I received 2 different sizes (5 gallons and 10 gallons) of their new “Easy to Fill” line of Auto Top Off containers.  Normally you would think there is not much you can improve on with a simple acrylic container but apparently Simplicity Aquatics have found a customer ergonomic challenge to solve. Operability and serviceability are the first attributes that get lost in the design process if not listed early in the requirements. Of course, the primary purpose of a reservoir is to hold water. The first thing that I have noticed is the improved cover for filling the container without even reading any of the literature. Most existing acrylic containers on the market are a bit awkward to refill manually due to small openings and it is hard to avoid spillage if not careful. The included “spout/cover” deign makes accessing and refilling the container much easier and less messy.  Sometimes improvements don’t need to be complex to be impactful for the users.

Most people these days have migrated to pre-packaged All in One aquarium systems that include a stand. The “Easy to Fill” containers are perfect accompaniments that are aesthetically functional but also reduces the aggravations from a normal routines. You do not have to pull the unit out to access it if placed near the front. The unit will look neat and tidy. Designing a professional looking aquarium system is something everyone should strive for. At my work, we say “A clean machine is a happy machine.” If it is designed to be serviceable it will be done.

Yes, there are DIY ways to automate the refilling of your auto top off containers by installing mechanical float valves and running a line from your reverse osmosis filters. But there are also risks of flooding and other failures if fail-safes are not planned properly. For most, this headache is best avoided. Just keep it simple…

A great design does not have to be complex…

Manufacturer listed features and specifications:

• Simplify Maintenance: The one-of-a-kind easy-fill lid with built-in splash guard allows users to quickly fill the reservoir with less mess.
• Universal Compatibility: It pairs easily with nearly every auto top-off (ATO) on the market. The lid’s large opening fits most ATO pumps and features tubing and power cord cutouts.
• Reduce Algae Build-up: Opaque black sides help prevent light penetration and reduce nuisance algae growth.
• Track Top-Off Usage: The clear acrylic front panel with easy-to-read graduations lets you view the volume at a glance.
• Space-saving Design: The compact footprint fits easily inside most cabinets.

5 Gallon Specifications:

• Volume: 5+ gallons (19 liters)
• Dimensions with lid closed: 6.0 in. x 16.0 in. x 15.25 in. (L x W x H)
• Dimensions with lid opened: 6.0 in. x 20.5 in. x 19.0 in. (L x W x H)
• Weight: 8.30 lbs
• Color: Black with a clear front panel
• Required clearance: 20.0 in.
• Pouring lid width: 4.75 in.
• Pouring lid extension length: 4.5 in. past the front of the container
• Maximum return tubing diameter: 0.5 in.
• Maximum power cord diameter: 1.5 in. with cable groove
• Warranty: 3-year manufacturer prorated warranty

What’s Included:

1. Simplicity 5 Gallon Easy-Fill ATO Reservoir
2. Rubber Plug for power cord hole

10 gallon Specifications:

• Volume: 10+ gallons (38 liters)
• Dimensions with lid closed: 8.0 in x 16.0 in. x 22.0 in. (L x W x H)
• Dimensions with lid opened: 8.0 in. x 20.5 in. x 25.5 in. (L x W x H)
• Weight: 12.40 lbs ● Color: Black with a clear front panel
• Required clearance: 26.5 in. ● Pouring lid width: 6.75 in.
• Pouring lid extension length: 4.5 in. past the front of the container
• Maximum return tubing diameter: 0.5 in.
• Maximum power cord diameter: 1.5 in. with cable groove
• Warranty: 3-year manufacturer prorated warranty

What’s Included:

1. Simplicity 10 Gallon Easy-Fill ATO Reservoir
2. Rubber Plug for power cord hole