Automation of RODI production

[CasperOe]

Hi Reefers,

I am looking to add a bit of automation to my RODI production. After what seems like hours searching the internet, I am no wiser than when I started- and now I start to feel stupid. Anyway, here is what I plan to do with my Neptune Apex in mind. Please advise

Option no. 1
2 x Optical sensors in my RODI bucket
1 x Float gauge as a backup
1 x Apex Solenoid (open when bottom sensor is exposed to air- and closed when water level reaches the top sensor?

Q: Will the backpressure from the float alone be enough to stop the flow of water?

Option no. 2:
Booster pump fitted before my RODI unit
Pressure switch to switch off the booster pump
2 x Optical sensors in my RODI bucket
1 x Float gauge as a backup
1 x Apex Solenoid (open when bottom sensor is exposed to air- and closed when water level reaches the top sensor?

Q: Where to I install the pressure switch, and how exactly does it work?
Q: Is my understanding correct that the back pressure from the closed solenoid will activate the pressure switch- which in turn will stop the booster pump?
Q: Will the backpressure from the float alone be enough to activate the pressure switch if the solenoid fail?

Thank you! Feel like an absolute idiot even asking

 

[A_Blind_Reefer]

Option 1 should be fine with or without a booster pump. Either way the solenoid valve and or float will hold the line closed and your rodi will shutoff off it has the auto shutoff valve installed. I would have the high sensor shut off the solenoid and install the float a little higher as an oh crap the solenoid didn’t work shutoff. That’s how I have mine setup and it’s been fine for years. If your water pressure going into the rodi is low I would run a booster for better performance. Most homes are regulated to around 50psi ish. I run mine with a booster at 75-80psi. Good luck

 

[CasperOe]

Option 1 should be fine with or without a booster pump. Either way the solenoid valve and or float will hold the line closed and your rodi will shutoff off it has the auto shutoff valve installed. I would have the high sensor shut off the solenoid and install the float a little higher as an oh crap the solenoid didn’t work shutoff. That’s how I have mine setup and it’s been fine for years. If your water pressure going into the rodi is low I would run a booster for better performance. Most homes are regulated to around 50psi ish. I run mine with a booster at 75-80psi. Good luck

Thanks a lot, i appreciate it!

I was considering the booster pump option as my water pressure here in the UK is fairly low; sitting on about 35 psi so not a lot of production!

With regards to the auto shutoff, i am simply not sure my system has one! Will have to check that again!

 

[KStatefan]

You will get a better productiion rate and a better rejection rate with pressure increase.

 

[CasperOe]

You will get a better productiion rate and a better rejection rate with pressure increase.

Cheers! I did make it that far in my research before giving up and probably that's the direction i will be going in!

Any advice on my questions in this regard?

Q: Where to I install the pressure switch, and how exactly does it work?

Q: Is my understanding correct that the back pressure from the closed solenoid will activate the pressure switch- which in turn will stop the booster pump?

Q: Will the backpressure from the float alone be enough to activate the pressure switch if the solenoid fail?

 

[KStatefan]

I do not know the answer to those I do not run a booster pump as my source water is 80 psi. I just use a high/low tank controller to automate my RODI production.

I am sure there a hook up diagrams online I would look at buckeyehyro

 

[CasperOe]

I do not know the answer to those I do not run a booster pump as my source water is 80 psi. I just use a high/low tank controller to automate my RODI production.

I am sure there a hook up diagrams online I would look at buckeyehyro

Allright Must be nice with 80 psi unlike these old UK properties with water just dripping out..

Cheers! will have a google for buckeyehyro

 

[A_Blind_Reefer]

Cheers! I did make it that far in my research before giving up and probably that's the direction i will be going in!

Any advice on my questions in this regard?

Q: Where to I install the pressure switch, and how exactly does it work?

Q: Is my understanding correct that the back pressure from the closed solenoid will activate the pressure switch- which in turn will stop the booster pump?

Q: Will the backpressure from the float alone be enough to activate the pressure switch if the solenoid fail?

Not sure if uk kits are much different than us kits but when you order a rodi booster pump I would get the auto flush upgrade if it’s not included. This replaces the flow restrictor with an electronic one on top of the pressure switch. The pressure switch goes on the output of your rodi after the last stage. The pump, auto flush, and pressure switch all have to be relatively close as it comes with pre terminated wiring. Lastly, yes either the solenoid or float valve will cause the pressure to build in the line and trigger the pressure switch to close.