Overflow Problem

[rich2103]

I just set up my tank and already there, of course, was a problem. My sump had overflowed from a pump failure. I was licky enough to be home at the time. My Overflow is gravity feed so the only way I thought to stop it was a manual ball valve. What if I am not home and this happens? is there any device that can stop the flow of water to my sump? 8O

 

[DougBak]

If the water came back thru the supply line, which is generally the case, all you have to do is drill a small hole in the bottom of the highest point of the return line. This will allow the siphon to break and stop the flow of water all over your floor when the pump stops due to power outage or pump failure.

While the pump is running, a small amount of water will be pushed out that hole and into the tank below. Be sure to check it periodically to make sure that it doesn't get encrusted with salt, algae, etc.

When I set mine up, I fill the tank and let it gravity overflow to fill the sump. When you start the pump, there will be a little draw down, mark the level of the water in the sump at that point, and you'll know not to fill higher than that line. This way, even if the pump stops when you're not home, it won't overflow.

 

[hdtran]

There's actually two tests you want to run:

(1) Pump stops working. Does the main tank flow back into the sump and cause a flood? That sets the maximum level in the sump.

(2) Overflow tube plugs up (say, due to errant snail). Pump runs sump completely dry (emptying sump into tank). Does the main tank flood? That sets the maximum level in the display tank.

Got to be completely paranoid.

 

[rich2103]

Thank You alot! I will try to save myself from another Flood

 

[ndimuzio]

I am using a CPR overflow box and on my line that returns water to the wave maker I am using a one way check valve, is this enough..??? I think it is because if the return pump stops as soon as the water level in the main tank drops below the level of the overflow box it wont pull more water into the sump, right??? :?:

 

[Rainman]

hdtran, I live in the knowledge that if my overflow blocks I'm looking at 20L of overflow on my floor. Can't be avoided 'cause the system is overclocked for the space I have!!

Haha, I'm now a very light sleeper. Does anyone else get up in the night if they hear mysterious noises from the tank (esp. cracking sounds)?