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Apex Newbie - Question (1 Viewer)

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TriggerFan

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I am a complete newbie to aquarium automation and controllers, so I have a couple of questions.

1) If I get an Apex - Do I need a WMX in order to control my Vortech MP pumps, Radion G4 LEDs?
2) If required, do I need one WMX for each type of product?
3) I have been doing some research, but still, I have doubts and questions. It seems like I can't connect certain equipment to the EB32 power bar?
It seems counterproductive needing separate power outlets to connect some products. I was under the impression that I would be able to connect all my required equipment t the power bar.
 
steveb

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1) Yes
2) No



3) I don't have the newest generation but only limitation I am aware of is A) max current for power strip and max current per plug and B) on the eb8 the 6 triac controlled outlets sometimes have issues turning on/off with low current devices. So you either have to use the two relay swithed outlets, get an eb4 (all switched) or attach something along with the low current device (they usually mention an incandescent light bulb IRC). I would assume the 832 if still using triacs might have that same limitation.
 
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Interesting. I have all my vortechs on a regular power bar plugged into a separate gfci from my EB8's.

One of these
1557864267503.png
 

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TriggerFan

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That's my point. I will not have the luxury of using a separate bar. I thought I could plug my gear to the EB832. Oh well, we'll see.
 
RR-MAN

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TriggerFan said:
BTW - This is one of the issues I was referring to: Apex + Vortech MP40 Issue
Click to expand...

I had the same issue with a brand new WXM module (bad wifi card) but once the WXM was replaced pumps never lost connection. Don't waste plug space on the EB832. Wifi works great. Setting up/modes is a breeze on Apex (throw away the ecotech reef link junk or doing it manually with pump controller, lol).
 
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TriggerFan

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OK - I made a few boo-boos Yesterday. I will send another PM later with details so you can have a laugh.
In the meantime, I decided to run RO tubing from the Vertex to one of the sumps and powered on the Vertex for the first time.
It was leaking everywhere!!! I ended up cutting new tubing and now zero leaks. I see the producing water is on and the waste water line is producing waste water.
How long will it produce waste water before it starts producing RO water? It's been a while now without any water to the tank/sump :(
 
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TriggerFan

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Quick update... I went inside after I sent you the first PM and noticed some water in the sump section where the return pump is located.
I also see about 3 gallons of waste water already. Will it be a 1:1 ratio of waste water or is this is just temporary?
I assume the gauge is the water pressure gauge? I see it oscillating between 125 and 160 (red numbers).

My plan is to start the return pump once the sump is filled to a certain level and I can check there are no leaks in the return hose and the fitting bibb of the 750XXL pipe going to the overflow of the tank. Is this OK or should I move it to the DT after a quick leak test of the hose?
 
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Ok that's not good be careful- the PSI is way too high. Mine stays at around 95-100 most of the time. Check your connections.

It has a 12-15 second auto flush so right after that it should produce clean water.


 
gregg

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If waste water is coming out and 15secs has passed then you should be getting an equal amount of RO water as you do waste water. Check and make sure that all 3 canisters have water in them, if not then you have a clog.

Also how are you providing the source water? Can you turn down the pressure before it reaches the vertex?
 
gregg

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I’d also suggest producing that RO water into a container other than your sump unless you have a float valve.
 
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TriggerFan

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@Gregg: I teed from my house filtration unit (softener) to a ball valve and then threaded coupler to a garden hose to 1/4 adapter. (Adapter Here)
From what I recall, there was a LOT of waste water. Probably 60 - 70 gallons of waste water. I started making water around 12:30pm and finished around 2:30am!

I have two 175 gal tanks for my mix station, but I mis-calculated the required parts for the project and missed a coupler. I should have it done by this weekend.
I also need to finish some work for the Stenner pumps. Once this is complete I will start producing water into the tank. I was just a little desperate to have water in the tank and start the cycle. (I know... I know.. I need to be patient)
 
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TriggerFan

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Guys - Can you confirm this is too high? If it is, I guess I will order the Watts pressure reducing valve and some NPT to Push Connect fittings.
6Eu2X3.jpg
 
RR-MAN

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TriggerFan said:
Guys - Can you confirm this is too high? If it is, I guess I will order the Watts pressure reducing valve and some NPT to Push Connect fittings.
6Eu2X3.jpg
Click to expand...

That’s very high PSI- something isn’t right. My max is 100 PSI.

What is the pressure reading without the booster pump ON? So turn the water ON but don’t plug in the booster pump.
 
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TriggerFan

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I just checked a moment ago. With the booster pump on, it fluctuated between 90 - 120. Without pump, it was barely 60.
 

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RR-MAN

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Your good then...without a booster pump 60 is about right.
 
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