Moving up in the world! ATO! Pics!

The beauty of an ATO is that it keeps the salinity of the entire system very consistent. This is because as water is lost to evaporation, is replaced almost immediately. If there's any downside to a float switch-actuated ATO--it's that the float switch is telling the RO/DI system to "give me a shot of water" about every few minutes. The downside to that; is an RO/DI membrane is rinsed clean by each usage--but not so much when each usage is just a few ounces.

The workaround to this conundrum is simply to place a solenoid switch on a float valve-actuated ATO system. Have a timer turn the float switch on for about an hour, twice a day. There are 3 reasons why IMO this is the way to go:
1. It's insurance against flooding b/c it's safer. Should the float switch fail; it won't flood the house because the water flow is limited to an hour.
2. Your salinity still remains consistent, given that the tank is topped off twice a day.
3. Your RO membrane is kept properly rinsed because each time water is delivered to the system, it's enough to rinse the membrane as designed.

One note--you must use a solenoid switch of the NC type (normally closed). Then, when it's actuated, the RO/DI unit "sees" the float switch. Here's a link to the solenoid valve. It has the quick disconnect fittings (John Guest) just like the RO/DI unit.

Here's what it looks like:



IMO, if you're going to use a float switch ATO, this is the way to go!

 

To be completely honest..sparky..you just confused the hell out of me lol Why put the solenoid on my float switch that is in my sump? (that's the only electrical one?) It's not directly connected to my RO/DI. Mike suggested lowering the flow to the unit so its just slow and steady..that makes sense..but I'm just not really following the use of a solenoid

 

Sparky,

I follow you. K+ for the great plan and explanation. I will consider doing this +/- with a top off reservoir vs feeding directly into the sump.

 

nice dude, congrats!

 

Well I got my float valve a couple days ago and have it all hooked up with no floods I got my TDS meter in the mail today..it reads 124 in and 7 out..shouldn't it be zero? is 7 anything to worry about?

 

okay nevermind..it's down to 1 now..i can live with that!