CHEAP $15CAD solution to siphoning issue on autofeed systems.

[Aqua Man]

So anyone that may have had or is having an issue with a the syphoning effect that can happen due to pump, line or reservoir placement can easily fix the issue. By using a cheap normally closed solenoid tied into the pump it stays closed until the pump kicks on then opens. When the pump shuts off the solenoid shuts off and closes eliminating any syphoning effect that may be an issue.

For AC or DC pumps simply wire the solenoid into your pump or add a plug to the solenoid and plug into the same timer as the pump. Most common is half inch PVC so these links will will be that size but you will need the PVC fitting to make the connection.

For AC.




For DC.




That's it.

 

[420hobbygrower]

Think the wiring is easy for someone with 0 electrical experience?

 

[Aqua Man]

Think the wiring is easy for someone with 0 electrical experience?

Yup just a positive and negative. Just make sure you get the right current... AC or DC.

 

[Dr.Green55]

I just used a inline plastic one way check valve a couple feet after the pump just out side the rez. worked perfect me .

 

[Aqua Man]

I just used a inline plastic one way check valve a couple feet after the pump just out side the rez. worked perfect me .

Yeah I had a hard time finding one that wasn't metal for a decent price.

 

[Dr.Green55]

Yeah I had a hard time finding one that wasn't metal for a decent price.

Ok I spoke to quick lol been awhile since i used that setup so I had to go look at it , I ran a 1 inch main line off the pump and all my spaghetti lines off that, the highest part of my main line was at the top of the rez. , so what I did was I got a cheap one way check valve in the plumbing section at the hardware store , it actually has a rubber flapper in it, the valve was threaded on one side and had a 1 inch smooth end on the other, I also got a 1 inch t , cut the main line at top of rez. put plastic T in the line with the one opening pointed strait up, on that end I glued on the valve, so when the pump turned on that flapper would close, the main line would pressurize, and when the pump stopped the valve would open allowing air in the line. stopping the syphoning effect. lol way simpler then my how to explanation lol , but a few bucks to do and never failed.

 

[AmokNewb]

I’ve used these on my saltwater aquariums and they work well, first one you can easily clean with out removing it.

Wye Check Valve

Why does BRS recommend this? Check valves are always a good idea to have, however when it comes to reliability you get what you pay for. There are other good check valves on the market but we feel that the Georg Fischer Wye check valve is by far the most superior. They have a removable plunger...

www.bulkreefsupply.com

Swing Check Valve True Union

Check valves allow one directional water flow and are used to prevent back flow and siphoning. These are among the highest quality check valves to be found. Relative to other types and manufacturers of check valves, these valves create minimal pressure loss. They are commonly used on return pump...

www.bulkreefsupply.com

 

[420hobbygrower]

Any chance someone could explain where to connect the solenoid wires to the pump? I have 0 electrical experience, other than knowing how to keep a safe electrical load. Dumb question, but do I cut the power cord to the pump and connect the solenoid wires to the pump wires? I did a bunch of searching and can't find anything.. it's probably too dumb of a question lol. TIA!

 

[phxazcraig]

If your system is anything like mine, the solution is FAR more simple! Just poke a hole in the appropriate location.

I have a simple drain to waste system based on stuff at cocoforcannabis.com. I was having siphon issues until I simply poked a hole in the water line near the top of the reservoir. I then popped a drip emitter from an outdoor drip irrigation system, because I had some in the garage, but it's not needed. When the pump is running, a few drops come out. When the pump goes off, the siphon is immediately broken and water drains from both sides of the hole and stops.

 

[420hobbygrower]

If your system is anything like mine, the solution is FAR more simple! Just poke a hole in the appropriate location.

I have a simple drain to waste system based on stuff at cocoforcannabis.com. I was having siphon issues until I simply poked a hole in the water line near the top of the reservoir. I then popped a drip emitter from an outdoor drip irrigation system, because I had some in the garage, but it's not needed. When the pump is running, a few drops come out. When the pump goes off, the siphon is immediately broken and water drains from both sides of the hole and stops.
View attachment 1230176

I actually did something similar in my last set up, but it was really spraying water through the hole, so I thought I'd try something else to essentially maximize the pressure my pump is putting out. I think I'll probably go this route again, but really try to make the hole as tiny as possible.

Thanks for the reply!