I did a very similar one and works like a champ! The only difference is that I do not have my skimmer on and I will find a way to add it! Tks for that video mate! Happy reefing…
Man that was impressive, I’m not a electrician but I’ve never seen a high quality cheap backup like that. Most videos go over some very expensive options that just are not affordable for me. Almost anyone could do this within there budget. But it is slightly overwhelming thinking about sourcing those parts in the 🇺🇸
If I could give two thumbs up I would. Loving it from Barbados. It looks like something that I can add to my tank. I’ll check your comments for the parts list. Wonderful video as most of yours are. Keep up the great work.
With the skimmer and return still running its because they have no low voltage shutoff due to the step up converter.. this is a great idea but if it was me i would opt for 2 batteries in series giving 24v or just a 24v version and then use step down converters instead.. giving you more run time and also less chance of draining the battery too low where it won't charge.. ive seen that hapoen so much in the rc car world. But still gotta say it again great idea sam
Sam you've out done yourself with this one! I've been trying to figure out how to backup non-ecotech pump for some time now.... Thanks a million! Some viewers might also be interested to look at the "Baintech" range of Lithium batteries (usually used for carvan and camping). They are at a premium pricepoint but are still 'relatively' compact and have ~10x the storage capacity of the kayak battery.
Looking at options to use 18v makita batteries. I have loads and I can always leave a charged one in a holder. Coupled up with a voltage adjustable board..
I'm going to try this build I just had. A power out when I was watching this so I have to build something but this will work with any dc pumps... The dpdt relay will work with 12 v probably won't use 24 v not sure.... So what I'm asking will it work for just 12 v stuff if Nevermind I found 12 v one and the holder works for both thanks No gotta find in us
This is awesome thanks! What battery would you recommend for this return pump that's available in the states? And would the Tunze work if it's 24v? THANKS
any battery within your budget will work - I do like the FPV batteries though, they are very high quality. I don't know if the tunze connector actually bumps the voltage up to 24v or not, personally I'd rather build my own :)
I love the kayak battery - genius!. I've been buying portable power centres from Jaycar when they are on sale. Haven't installed them in any sort of automated system but at least I have them around (charged).
@@ParkersReef I do wish the Tunze connectors were cheaper or there were a simpler option for wiring up gear without abuilt in input for a battery backup. I had thought of just running individual 24v batteries inline (like my upc for my router) but I assume there's a reason that's not a thing
I have been trying to do some research on methods to battery backup my apex return, while maintaining control through apex. Though coming up to dead ends with my lack of electrical/electronic knowledge. 24vdc signal coming from apex, 24vdc coming from battery, then coil signal coming from seperate mains related source. Is there a DPDT that uses all 24V? Also, do you suggest cycling the DPDT periodically to check for its function?
Yep ok, so if your return is powered by the 24v bus on the apex, you would intercept that signal. I’d still use a 12v battery with a buck converter to raise it up to 24v. DPDT relay to automatically switch between the apex power supply and battery backup. I’d be happy to make the system for you if not confident? I would recommend testing it every few months, especially key if the battery your using doesn’t have a long life expectancy.
This is fascinating and something I am very interested in but seems a bit advanced for me to wrap my head around lol. I do have what might be a stupid question but how do you know what is AC vs DC?
yeah that is a fair question! The easiest way is to see if the device has a power brick. That will convert AC power (which comes from your wall) to DC and it will actually show you the input and output voltages and amps on the brick itself
Wow that was impressive. Lots of pumps now that only work on 24 volts. Only daunting part is all the parts you need to get to make it complete. I am even less smart when it comes to electrical work. But I did manage to wire up new LED downlights and also an Ixl in the bathroom and even a cooktop in the kitchen. But really I was just copying the existing wiring for most of that so it was child's play.
Another dumb question sorry, If I used a tunze safety connector also would it work for multiple pumps being it has a 4amp fuse built in? Or could you swap the fuse for a 10amp into the safety connector and do away with a separate fuse all together?
@@richardportelli1983 If your going to be mainly powering 24v devices you may want to look at a 24v battery over a 12v one as the boosters do cause a loss of capacity. The 4 amp fuse that is built in most likely due to the current rating of some component of the device or that most dc power supplys for things like the pumps don't put out more that 3 amps. As such you could up it at your own risk as fuses are a safety device.
Do you know if you have to provide the same 24V from the battery to the relay as the skimmer transformer provides? I ask because many relays say both voltages in have to be the same, yet many pumps (Icecap gyres) have a battery saver mode when they see 12V instead of 24V.
So if you want to use a relay to build an automatic transfer yourself but not lose the efficiency of the 12V battery backup mode, how would you do it, do you know?
You’d still do it the same way, but only pass 12v on the output side of the relay. That way it will accept 24v from PSU till power goes out the recent to 12v from battery when it does go out
I know this is an old video but can I use the same setup with a car battery (which I already have lying around) to run my jeabo dc return pump? the pumps transformer says it's output is 24v. I'm thinking of hooking both my mp40 and the return pump up to it just in case as I'm going away for 4 weeks. Would you think there is any advantage to hooking up the other 2 nero 5s to it?
Yes you can. You will need to connect a charger to the battery as well. Otherwise everything is the same as this video. Mp40 will take 12v straight from the battery, the jebao will need a booster and a relay
Your DIY battery backup video inspired me to imitate it, thanks! Does the watts for the 12VDC to 24VDC booster matter? I see one rated for - Output: DC24V Max Current: 10A240W and another - Output: DC24V Max Current: 5A 120W.
@@ParkersReef Wow, you are awesome! Thanks for the super fast reply to an old post. If I want to run three or four pumps like you have, does this factor into the equation? ie. 2 (Varios 4) are rated 24V ⎓ 2.5A, so 24V x 2.5A = 60W x 2 + the watts others?
What would be nice is a small volt meter so you can see what voltage you battery is. But very nice setup. My system is hooked up to 4 big batteries that are hooked to 10 solar panels. Everything runs off of them
@@ParkersReef Just another question. I also have a Jump skimmer, but I would also like to wire my 2 Jebao returnpumps on the backup system. Can this all be handeled by 1 dpdt relay or do I need one for every pump with its own psu?
Was considering a back system at the start of the year. But after TC Seroja I don't think I would bother. Back ups are good for small outages, what we are used to most of the time. But if you loose power for 5 days and don't have a generator. Get ready for a big lose. I managed 5 days with running my tank for about 3 hours each day. Lost nothing. A decent inverted Geny about 2 kVA is well worth it. I managed with a 1kva that was playing up but it got me thru. Lost no fish coral or fridged food.
yeah agreed, 5 days is next level. This would give you time to charge the batteries during the day whilst the generator was running and keep the essentials on at night so you can switch the generator off though?
Great work Sam, one thing I would suggest as a small upgrade, rig up an alarm/speaker to the unit, so that when its active it is super obvious. I am sure you could do it to your home automation as well
@@ParkersReef I, and suspect others, are looking forward to that video, its a topic that comes up a lot and since the apps that we used to run on cheap old smartphones stopped working I haven't seen a good solution to replace them yet.
Hey Nihard, For 12 plus hours for both I would recommend the following battery: www.fpv-power.com.au/FPV-POWER-12V-75Ah-LiFePO4 If just the MP60, I think you could probably get away with this: www.fpv-power.com.au/12v-25Ah-LiFePO4 If interested in either solution, let me know, I can custom make it for you to be plug and play with your MP60!
Great video I’m starting to work on my battery backup system. My goal is to an off grid battery solar system that runs my tank. I need to start ordering all the parts and putting it together, of course it’s going to be DIY.
Mp40 only need a 12v feed, so any affordable 12v battery will do the trick. Look for something long lasting, sealed, fits the space and budget you have
Wow, this inspired me to go DIY for backup battery 😁 Might as well just bundle a bunch of AA batteries together, super cheap and expandable. I wouldn't be surprised if the bigger batteries like the one you've used have a bunch of smaller cells inside anyway.
@@ParkersReef I found they are probably too cheap to try to DIY it 😅 Meanwhile I'm ending up on sites explaining how to weld 18650 cells together... I should get some sleep instead.
Hey Sam, great video , I recently picked up a Maxspect Jump Gyre 4k , not sure if this model has the ability to switch to battery backup mode like the regular maxspect gyres do, there is no switchover cable that comes with the unit and no mention in the manual. What would I have to order from Nick's aquarium to get your small battery kit working with this Gyre? Cheers mate
Hey Ray! Nicks will have a universal switch which is what you will need. That accepts a battery input and your gyre power supply and switches between the two automatically (bumping the battery voltage up to 24v in the process). If Nick doesn’t have any or isn’t sure, let me know and I’ll sort you out :)
Thanks mate, I think if you could choose one device to back up , it's probably best to keep the return pump running , keep your bacteria alive in the sump and get flow in the tank at the same time with surface agitation. May do that instead of the gyre , the return pump is a Varios Dc so should be good to go with the switch. Cheers
@@rays7177 yep the Varios will work perfectly with the universal switch and yes - not a bad idea to keep the sump active. Return pumps generally use a little more power than wave pumps though, so will chew through the power a bit quicker
Love these videos mate!! Very well put and explained, so much $$ in livestock in tanks and these simple things could save it all. Keep up the great work 👍
so I've tried to make a batter back up, i got the stereo plug from jaycar you recommended and it doesn't fit the input on my mp 40 so i got a smaller 1 that dose fit but the battery back wont work, am i doing something wrong ?
Hi Shane, you will need the 1.3mm dc connector from jaycar (not a stereo connector - this one www.jaycar.com.au/1-3mm-dc-power-line-connector/p/PP0506) If you have 12vdc supplied through that connector to your MP40 (ensure the positive is on the inside contact and negative on the outside contact) that's all there is to it. Let me know how you go
Hey Sam, great video. I am trying to build something similar but I'd like to just power my mp40s. i have 3 but would only like to power 2. I found the battery on amazon and ebay but am having trouble finding the other pieces of equipment you have shown and am a bit confused. what else do i need to make this as simple as possible. im familar with amazon and can order supplies from there. thanks keith
hey keith, if you have a 12v battery already - you just need some connectors to your MP40's. They use a 1.3mm dc connector, look those up and get some wire - you'll be set :)
My main system? I have my main tank on its own circuit, all power for it runs through an inverter/charger/transfer switch. If mains is cut or under supplied, the system automatically takes power from the battery bank. More info in the video here: ua-cam.com/video/dUHwKcHwpjQ/v-deo.html
Thanks Sam, useful video. Dumb question but what do you do when you want to do a water change? I turn off all my pumps but then the battery back up would turn them back on, haha? Also, would you know if the Tunze safety connectors work with the Jebao pumps?
Did you use both the automatic power switch and the relay on your setup? Doesn’t seem like you used it. Why did you choose the relay over that component? Finally, what size connector did you have to use for the Vectra backup cable? Is it the same as the vortechs?
The relay is the automatic switch, the automatic ones are just pre wired for you to make it easier to install. Yes - vectra uses the same connector, from memory it was a 1.3mm connector?
Hey Sam, Thanks for the video. Might be a stupid question but what cables did you use to connect the correct controller to the battery? I noticed you linked the plugs from jaycar but not sure how I would wire these. What would be the best way to connect the mp40s to the fpv battery? Sorry, electronics is a different language to me haha
That’s really generous of you. I’ll happily pay you for it obviously. Yes, I’m Australia, just north of Sydney. I’ve implemented quite a few of your ideas into my new tank actually. Currently have the Cade 1800 peninsular.
Hi thanks for the video. I’ve had my upgraded Cade s2 1800 tank running now for a few months. I live in Melbourne and have tried getting the echo tech battery backup but can’t get any in Australia. I have 3 x mp 40 pumps an a vectra m2 return and Nyos quantum skimmer. My local LFS recommend a pc ups. I asked at battery world and they recommend a power shield commander 2000va ups which they say will run for 5 hours. Pretty confused not sure what option as this is a big ups space wise. I’ve been told I can’t buy the echo tech battery from eBay as they run 110 volts ( USA power) instead of 240 volts Aussie power . Any advise you can give would be great.
They ecotech unit is 12v, so that’s not an issue (charger mat need adapting though) It will more likely be an issue shipping batteries. UPS work, they’re just not super effficient at taking DC power, converting to AC, only then to go back to DC for the equipment If looking to run that gear, I’d make my own just like this system.
Hey Sam, just watched this video. Looks like it will be perfect for my setup. Are you still running this? Curious to know if the battery has any issues constantly being held at 100% state of charge.
Certainly am still using it and can say it’s worked a charm. The victron inverter is a quality bit of gear and it has maintained the batteries very well
@@ParkersReef are you talking about your big battery on you main tank? That thing is next level but im specifically talking about the FPV battery on your frag tank 😅
Ah yes my apology I was! I find the FPV batteries are fine if kept at 100% charge, but don’t like being left at zero charge for extended periods of time
@@ParkersReef Did you ever consider getting a larger lifepo4 battery from a different brand? Thinking something around 100ah. Wondering if that was just more overkill or if you had a reason.
@@AndrewMedcalf-z8l sure did! In fact that is similar to what I did for my own whole tank backup. You absolutely could use a larger battery from another brand for an individual pump if you wanted though
the depths of cold... and the he says "here in Australia" lol - my man, Im in the middle of Canada and out winters go down to -35C and even lower with the windchill it gets down to -50 . (my summer is the opposite extreme with heatwaves at +35 C)
Sam, Your timing couldn’t be more perfect for me, I have an mp60, mp40 and a jecod 1200 (24v) Was looking at 2x 23ah sealed AGM batteries. Any thoughts on sealed AGM batteries?
You got to watch out for lithium ion batteries. Ensure that you buy from reputable brands only and it should have the proper circuitry to protect it from overcharging and overheating otherwise they are a ticking incendiary bomb waiting to burn your house down. They can explode and generate intense heat and smoke that ignites flammable materials a meter or even more radius from it depending on the quantity.
@@ParkersReef So long as the power supply can drive more current than the devices no power will be pulled from the battery and bms stops the over charging.
You make it much simpler than almost all others that I have watched. Thanks for that from us who are not diy people.
Glad it was helpful Gary!
I did a very similar one and works like a champ! The only difference is that I do not have my skimmer on and I will find a way to add it! Tks for that video mate! Happy reefing…
Thanks for watching and glad to hear it’s working well for you!
Having redundancy like this absolutely essential. Great information Sam.
Thanks team!
Thank for sharing great video as usual in the process of doing this for my MP40 on my 50 gallon Lagoon reef tank.
no problem at all, for vortex pumps it is crazy easy - just a straight 12v connection, the switching is all done inside the controller
Man that was impressive, I’m not a electrician but I’ve never seen a high quality cheap backup like that. Most videos go over some very expensive options that just are not affordable for me. Almost anyone could do this within there budget. But it is slightly overwhelming thinking about sourcing those parts in the 🇺🇸
Thanks for the kind comments!!
If I could give two thumbs up I would. Loving it from Barbados. It looks like something that I can add to my tank. I’ll check your comments for the parts list.
Wonderful video as most of yours are. Keep up the great work.
Awesome stuff thanks mate!
With the skimmer and return still running its because they have no low voltage shutoff due to the step up converter.. this is a great idea but if it was me i would opt for 2 batteries in series giving 24v or just a 24v version and then use step down converters instead.. giving you more run time and also less chance of draining the battery too low where it won't charge.. ive seen that hapoen so much in the rc car world. But still gotta say it again great idea sam
Sound advice mate backed by good experience, thanks for sharing!
Sam you've out done yourself with this one! I've been trying to figure out how to backup non-ecotech pump for some time now.... Thanks a million!
Some viewers might also be interested to look at the "Baintech" range of Lithium batteries (usually used for carvan and camping). They are at a premium pricepoint but are still 'relatively' compact and have ~10x the storage capacity of the kayak battery.
Thanks Adam, glad to hear it is of some help! Yell out if you need help or have any questions with your build :)
@@ParkersReefbigger challenge awaits me with this one... Octo skimmer has varios pump which is 36v. Seems I have some more research to do there!
Loving the mix of no compromise gear and lets crack out the soldering iron solutions. Keep it up champ.
Can't be all dollar-bill-throwing options, sometimes it doesn't hurt to get the hands dirty and give the wallet a rest :P
@@ParkersReef Amen brother
Looking at options to use 18v makita batteries. I have loads and I can always leave a charged one in a holder. Coupled up with a voltage adjustable board..
yeah you can do! There are lots of aftermarket holders for the Makita batteries that will allow you to tap into their power!
There's a reason you're the Numero Uno Reef UA-cam!! 👌👌
Which power boards are you using in the frag tank??
Haha thanks mate! They are the powerboards included on the Cade :)
@@ParkersReef ...yeah, I kinda thought you might say something like that. Not particularly easy to find are they....(in that style)
We sell them at deer park aquarium :)
Not cheap though :/
I'm going to try this build I just had. A power out when I was watching this so I have to build something but this will work with any dc pumps... The dpdt relay will work with 12 v probably won't use 24 v not sure.... So what I'm asking will it work for just 12 v stuff if
Nevermind I found 12 v one and the holder works for both thanks
No gotta find in us
yep you can build it to suit any voltage
Outstanding video Sam, great stuff mate!!
Thanks Jamie!
This is awesome thanks! What battery would you recommend for this return pump that's available in the states? And would the Tunze work if it's 24v? THANKS
any battery within your budget will work - I do like the FPV batteries though, they are very high quality.
I don't know if the tunze connector actually bumps the voltage up to 24v or not, personally I'd rather build my own :)
@@ParkersReef thanks! Are FPV available in the states? thought it didn't look like it
Yes I believe they are
@@ParkersReef will I newd a 12 or 24 v?
I use 12v batteries and then boost up to 24v if your pump requires it
I love the kayak battery - genius!. I've been buying portable power centres from Jaycar when they are on sale. Haven't installed them in any sort of automated system but at least I have them around (charged).
Always handy to have some charged batteries about!
@@ParkersReef I do wish the Tunze connectors were cheaper or there were a simpler option for wiring up gear without abuilt in input for a battery backup. I had thought of just running individual 24v batteries inline (like my upc for my router) but I assume there's a reason that's not a thing
Hi Sam, how would i use a backup like this to power a great white dc return pump that doesnt have a backup port in the controller? Thanks
You would need the relay option like I did for my skimmer in this video. I can make for you if you are in Australia?
@@ParkersReef that would be awesome 👌. Yes im in Queensland.
I have been trying to do some research on methods to battery backup my apex return, while maintaining control through apex. Though coming up to dead ends with my lack of electrical/electronic knowledge.
24vdc signal coming from apex, 24vdc coming from battery, then coil signal coming from seperate mains related source.
Is there a DPDT that uses all 24V?
Also, do you suggest cycling the DPDT periodically to check for its function?
Yep ok, so if your return is powered by the 24v bus on the apex, you would intercept that signal.
I’d still use a 12v battery with a buck converter to raise it up to 24v.
DPDT relay to automatically switch between the apex power supply and battery backup.
I’d be happy to make the system for you if not confident?
I would recommend testing it every few months, especially key if the battery your using doesn’t have a long life expectancy.
Thanks Sam for another informative video. Also appreciate providing details on the parts you used.
Thanks Paul!
What size wire should I get I have some but I think it's to small
will depend on the amperage your pumps are drawing. Safer to go larger if not sure
Great video. Your sources will not ship to the USA. Can you recommend another source?
They will actually. Do a search for FPV Power batteries and you’ll find some local stockists in the USA
@@ParkersReef Thanks but what about the relay & relay holder? I have not yet been able to locate on EBAY or Amazon
Relay holder is not necessary, but if you went to any electronics store and asked for a 24vdc dpdt relay they’d be able to sort you out
This is fascinating and something I am very interested in but seems a bit advanced for me to wrap my head around lol. I do have what might be a stupid question but how do you know what is AC vs DC?
yeah that is a fair question! The easiest way is to see if the device has a power brick. That will convert AC power (which comes from your wall) to DC and it will actually show you the input and output voltages and amps on the brick itself
Wow that was impressive. Lots of pumps now that only work on 24 volts. Only daunting part is all the parts you need to get to make it complete. I am even less smart when it comes to electrical work. But I did manage to wire up new LED downlights and also an Ixl in the bathroom and even a cooktop in the kitchen. But really I was just copying the existing wiring for most of that so it was child's play.
You can buy things like the ecotech battery booster for a plug and play solution (even if not using ecotech pumps)!!
@@ParkersReef Ok very interesting, so would this work if I wanted to power 2 or 3 or more 24 volt pumps all into the one booster?
Another dumb question sorry, If I used a tunze safety connector also would it work for multiple pumps being it has a 4amp fuse built in? Or could you swap the fuse for a 10amp into the safety connector and do away with a separate fuse all together?
@@richardportelli1983 If your going to be mainly powering 24v devices you may want to look at a 24v battery over a 12v one as the boosters do cause a loss of capacity. The 4 amp fuse that is built in most likely due to the current rating of some component of the device or that most dc power supplys for things like the pumps don't put out more that 3 amps. As such you could up it at your own risk as fuses are a safety device.
Yeah I’d just doing 24v, go two smaller 12v batteries and not worry about the step up converter
Do you know if you have to provide the same 24V from the battery to the relay as the skimmer transformer provides? I ask because many relays say both voltages in have to be the same, yet many pumps (Icecap gyres) have a battery saver mode when they see 12V instead of 24V.
I always supply the same voltage as the power supply (unless the pump has a dedicated battery backup option like the ecotech range)
Hmmm ... Wonder how the 24V Icecap gyre pumps work then with their overpriced 12V 2.5Ah battery backup option?
Pump will likely accept a 12v input but run at a maximum of half speed.
But I’m only guessing as I haven’t opened one up :)
So if you want to use a relay to build an automatic transfer yourself but not lose the efficiency of the 12V battery backup mode, how would you do it, do you know?
You’d still do it the same way, but only pass 12v on the output side of the relay.
That way it will accept 24v from PSU till power goes out the recent to 12v from battery when it does go out
I know this is an old video but can I use the same setup with a car battery (which I already have lying around) to run my jeabo dc return pump? the pumps transformer says it's output is 24v. I'm thinking of hooking both my mp40 and the return pump up to it just in case as I'm going away for 4 weeks. Would you think there is any advantage to hooking up the other 2 nero 5s to it?
Yes you can. You will need to connect a charger to the battery as well.
Otherwise everything is the same as this video. Mp40 will take 12v straight from the battery, the jebao will need a booster and a relay
Your DIY battery backup video inspired me to imitate it, thanks! Does the watts for the 12VDC to 24VDC booster matter? I see one rated for - Output: DC24V Max Current: 10A240W and another - Output: DC24V Max Current: 5A 120W.
It will matter depending on the device you are wanting to run off it. Check the watts of that and ensure you booster has enough to cover it 👍🏻
@@ParkersReef Wow, you are awesome! Thanks for the super fast reply to an old post. If I want to run three or four pumps like you have, does this factor into the equation? ie. 2 (Varios 4) are rated 24V ⎓ 2.5A, so 24V x 2.5A = 60W x 2 + the watts others?
That’s correct mate
Love the video, does the battery have overvolt and temp protection?
I believe it does, all built into its BMS
Thanks Sam, as usual a wonderfull idea and presentation - cheers
Thanks Roger!!
What would be nice is a small volt meter so you can see what voltage you battery is. But very nice setup. My system is hooked up to 4 big batteries that are hooked to 10 solar panels. Everything runs off of them
Nicely done!!
Awesome video, haven’t seen anything like it on UA-cam. Would love a step by step process of this build. Thanks
Glad you found it of use! Wasn't planning a step by step, but if you have any specific questions - just yell out!
What kind of wizardry is this?
I need another you cloned for up here 🤣
Great job man!
Haha I may have more to come too… stay tuned
@@ParkersReef I'm super interested for obvious reasons for the next magic trick.
Serious about cloning you too 😉
Top, exactly what I were looking for, thanks!
Glad I could help!
That was very useful. Just made one myself for 40 Euro. Thanks a lot 👍👍
Good stuff!!
@@ParkersReef Just another question. I also have a Jump skimmer, but I would also like to wire my 2 Jebao returnpumps on the backup system. Can this all be handeled by 1 dpdt relay or do I need one for every pump with its own psu?
@@Langenbergh ideally one relay per psu. But you could use one large psu if you prefered?
@@ParkersReef I think I'll do that 👍
Hi Sam, dumb question but, why not just use a small computer UPS unit, plug in your pumps and good to go? :p
they're quite small and don't have huge capacity. That's the main reasons why :)
@@ParkersReef seen a few APC around 1200VA for about $140 usd.. should hold for a couple of hours right?
Was considering a back system at the start of the year. But after TC Seroja I don't think I would bother.
Back ups are good for small outages, what we are used to most of the time. But if you loose power for 5 days and don't have a generator. Get ready for a big lose.
I managed 5 days with running my tank for about 3 hours each day.
Lost nothing. A decent inverted Geny about 2 kVA is well worth it.
I managed with a 1kva that was playing up but it got me thru.
Lost no fish coral or fridged food.
yeah agreed, 5 days is next level. This would give you time to charge the batteries during the day whilst the generator was running and keep the essentials on at night so you can switch the generator off though?
Great work Sam, one thing I would suggest as a small upgrade, rig up an alarm/speaker to the unit, so that when its active it is super obvious. I am sure you could do it to your home automation as well
Ah good thinking!! I have something coming for power outage notification though :)
@@ParkersReef I, and suspect others, are looking forward to that video, its a topic that comes up a lot and since the apps that we used to run on cheap old smartphones stopped working I haven't seen a good solution to replace them yet.
@@ReefNerd should be next weekend, assuming the new sim comes Monday. I don’t think I’ll need more than a week to test it for the review :)
Hi Sam awesome video. If I want to run one MP60 and may be a Vectra L2 for 12 plus hours. What battery backup would you suggest. thanks
Hey Nihard, For 12 plus hours for both I would recommend the following battery:
www.fpv-power.com.au/FPV-POWER-12V-75Ah-LiFePO4
If just the MP60, I think you could probably get away with this:
www.fpv-power.com.au/12v-25Ah-LiFePO4
If interested in either solution, let me know, I can custom make it for you to be plug and play with your MP60!
Great video I’m starting to work on my battery backup system. My goal is to an off grid battery solar system that runs my tank. I need to start ordering all the parts and putting it together, of course it’s going to be DIY.
Nice one!
I'm a looking for a recommendation for what Batteries to use to run 4ea MP40 in a 300 gallon tank?
TIA for your help!
Mp40 only need a 12v feed, so any affordable 12v battery will do the trick.
Look for something long lasting, sealed, fits the space and budget you have
Wow, this inspired me to go DIY for backup battery 😁 Might as well just bundle a bunch of AA batteries together, super cheap and expandable. I wouldn't be surprised if the bigger batteries like the one you've used have a bunch of smaller cells inside anyway.
yeah they use a bunch of lithium cells managed by a BMS :D
@@ParkersReef I know you didn't need it since it has a BMS included, but got any tips for going DIY for that too? 😅
I don’t I am afraid, I know a little about BMS, but I gather a little info is dangerous 😅
@@ParkersReef I found they are probably too cheap to try to DIY it 😅 Meanwhile I'm ending up on sites explaining how to weld 18650 cells together... I should get some sleep instead.
@@DillondeVoor hahahaha yes, sleep - always tomorrow :D
Hey Sam, great video , I recently picked up a Maxspect Jump Gyre 4k , not sure if this model has the ability to switch to battery backup mode like the regular maxspect gyres do, there is no switchover cable that comes with the unit and no mention in the manual. What would I have to order from Nick's aquarium to get your small battery kit working with this Gyre? Cheers mate
Hey Ray! Nicks will have a universal switch which is what you will need. That accepts a battery input and your gyre power supply and switches between the two automatically (bumping the battery voltage up to 24v in the process). If Nick doesn’t have any or isn’t sure, let me know and I’ll sort you out :)
Thanks mate, I think if you could choose one device to back up , it's probably best to keep the return pump running , keep your bacteria alive in the sump and get flow in the tank at the same time with surface agitation. May do that instead of the gyre , the return pump is a Varios Dc so should be good to go with the switch. Cheers
@@rays7177 yep the Varios will work perfectly with the universal switch and yes - not a bad idea to keep the sump active. Return pumps generally use a little more power than wave pumps though, so will chew through the power a bit quicker
Awesome video mate, loved it.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Are there any dc heaters?
not that I know of
Epic mate! Nice work and thanks for sharing.
Cheers Joe!
Thanks for the tips, hopefully this saves a few tanks from crashing
That’s the plan!
Love these videos mate!! Very well put and explained, so much $$ in livestock in tanks and these simple things could save it all.
Keep up the great work 👍
Thank you!
Aousome idea, is the battery charger plugged in all the time, if so is there a separate port on the battery?
Yes it is, the battery charger has a plug I’ve wired in before the fuse :)
I love your videos so much thanks for all the great information
Thank you :)
@@ParkersReef I can't believe your reply back to everyone that is amazing doing such a great job
Least I can do mate!
Great video. Perfect timing.
Glad it was of use!
so I've tried to make a batter back up, i got the stereo plug from jaycar you recommended and it doesn't fit the input on my mp 40 so i got a smaller 1 that dose fit but the battery back wont work, am i doing something wrong ?
Hi Shane, you will need the 1.3mm dc connector from jaycar (not a stereo connector - this one www.jaycar.com.au/1-3mm-dc-power-line-connector/p/PP0506)
If you have 12vdc supplied through that connector to your MP40 (ensure the positive is on the inside contact and negative on the outside contact) that's all there is to it.
Let me know how you go
@@ParkersReef ah ok I was using a 1.7mm dc connector, thanks mate
I wanna keep a ai Nero running when power is out what’s the best budget option for a renter
This setup will do the trick nicely. You can use any battery in your budget
Hey Sam, great video. I am trying to build something similar but I'd like to just power my mp40s. i have 3 but would only like to power 2. I found the battery on amazon and ebay but am having trouble finding the other pieces of equipment you have shown and am a bit confused. what else do i need to make this as simple as possible. im familar with amazon and can order supplies from there. thanks keith
hey keith, if you have a 12v battery already - you just need some connectors to your MP40's. They use a 1.3mm dc connector, look those up and get some wire - you'll be set :)
Exactly what I want to do for the Nero 3 on my Waterbox Cube 10.
Pretty sure they are 24v so I will need to add the Buck Converter.
Yep that’ll get the job done nicely :)
Is there only one lead for charge and discharge? Do you need to physically unplug one lead and plug in the charge lead?
Nope - I wired in a charge lead so it is always plugged into both
@@ParkersReef can you show how you did that in one of your videos please? Really love the channel
Hiya, if possible I would love to see how your battery back up is connected, I'd appreciate that a lot. Thank you Steve 😊
My main system? I have my main tank on its own circuit, all power for it runs through an inverter/charger/transfer switch.
If mains is cut or under supplied, the system automatically takes power from the battery bank.
More info in the video here:
ua-cam.com/video/dUHwKcHwpjQ/v-deo.html
Thanks Sam, useful video. Dumb question but what do you do when you want to do a water change? I turn off all my pumps but then the battery back up would turn them back on, haha? Also, would you know if the Tunze safety connectors work with the Jebao pumps?
You can still remove plugs if you want to switch them off (or use the app if ecotech
Did you use both the automatic power switch and the relay on your setup? Doesn’t seem like you used it. Why did you choose the relay over that component? Finally, what size connector did you have to use for the Vectra backup cable? Is it the same as the vortechs?
The relay is the automatic switch, the automatic ones are just pre wired for you to make it easier to install.
Yes - vectra uses the same connector, from memory it was a 1.3mm connector?
Hey Sam,
Thanks for the video. Might be a stupid question but what cables did you use to connect the correct controller to the battery? I noticed you linked the plugs from jaycar but not sure how I would wire these. What would be the best way to connect the mp40s to the fpv battery?
Sorry, electronics is a different language to me haha
I just used some 7.5amp twin core cable. If you’re in australia, I’d be happy to make some for you, make any of it for you :)
That’s really generous of you. I’ll happily pay you for it obviously. Yes, I’m Australia, just north of Sydney. I’ve implemented quite a few of your ideas into my new tank actually. Currently have the Cade 1800 peninsular.
Sensational! Shoot me an email at sparker at Deakin dot edu dot au and let me know what you need and I’ll give you a price :)
Hi thanks for the video. I’ve had my upgraded Cade s2 1800 tank running now for a few months. I live in Melbourne and have tried getting the echo tech battery backup but can’t get any in Australia. I have 3 x mp 40 pumps an a vectra m2 return and Nyos quantum skimmer. My local LFS recommend a pc ups. I asked at battery world and they recommend a power shield commander 2000va ups which they say will run for 5 hours. Pretty confused not sure what option as this is a big ups space wise. I’ve been told I can’t buy the echo tech battery from eBay as they run 110 volts ( USA power) instead of 240 volts Aussie power . Any advise you can give would be great.
They ecotech unit is 12v, so that’s not an issue (charger mat need adapting though)
It will more likely be an issue shipping batteries.
UPS work, they’re just not super effficient at taking DC power, converting to AC, only then to go back to DC for the equipment
If looking to run that gear, I’d make my own just like this system.
Sorry I might of missed it but how are you charging the lithium battery? Cheers
I have a power lead in from the charger into the “black box” it connects to the battery which has its own built in BMS from the 12.6v charger
@@ParkersReef ah i see thanks
Hey Sam, just watched this video. Looks like it will be perfect for my setup. Are you still running this? Curious to know if the battery has any issues constantly being held at 100% state of charge.
Certainly am still using it and can say it’s worked a charm. The victron inverter is a quality bit of gear and it has maintained the batteries very well
@@ParkersReef are you talking about your big battery on you main tank? That thing is next level but im specifically talking about the FPV battery on your frag tank 😅
Ah yes my apology I was!
I find the FPV batteries are fine if kept at 100% charge, but don’t like being left at zero charge for extended periods of time
@@ParkersReef Did you ever consider getting a larger lifepo4 battery from a different brand? Thinking something around 100ah. Wondering if that was just more overkill or if you had a reason.
@@AndrewMedcalf-z8l sure did! In fact that is similar to what I did for my own whole tank backup. You absolutely could use a larger battery from another brand for an individual pump if you wanted though
Awesome stuff
Let me know if you have any questions!!
Great video. Shame these are not available in the uk 😞
Which per are you chasing? The battery? I’ll see if I can find similar in the uk for you :)
The battery, looks a great product just can find them in the uk or even a equivalent
Here you go:
www.ksenergy.co.uk/store/product/9a-ks-20-12v-20ah-lifepo4-lithium-iron-lifepo4-leisure-battery
the depths of cold... and the he says "here in Australia" lol - my man, Im in the middle of Canada and out winters go down to -35C and even lower with the windchill it gets down to -50 . (my summer is the opposite extreme with heatwaves at +35 C)
wow that is rare to get to minus 35 and positive 35! Huge temp swings! Here we'll range from at absolute lowest of about -1 up to around 45
Nice one Sam👍
Cheers Mark!
I use an APC battery back up and plug in my return pump to it
Nice one. Just ensure you replace the battery in it regularly as they don’t have a long life
Sam,
Your timing couldn’t be more perfect for me, I have an mp60, mp40 and a jecod 1200 (24v)
Was looking at 2x 23ah sealed AGM batteries.
Any thoughts on sealed AGM batteries?
Yeah AGM are fine and good value, that will give you a 12v and a 24v source too :)
Great video!!!
Thanks Greg!
Here..many times power goes off for 2 to 3 hours..i have kept tank whole night without power..these are not necessary and extra cost is waster.. 🙄
Fair enough!
You got to watch out for lithium ion batteries. Ensure that you buy from reputable brands only and it should have the proper circuitry to protect it from overcharging and overheating otherwise they are a ticking incendiary bomb waiting to burn your house down. They can explode and generate intense heat and smoke that ignites flammable materials a meter or even more radius from it depending on the quantity.
Correct. That’s why I bought a quality unit with a built in BMS 👍🏻
The relay is not needed so long as the charging power supply has sufficient current to drive the pump.
Yeah that is true, although can be tough on the battery to drive everything through it and charge it constantly
@@ParkersReef So long as the power supply can drive more current than the devices no power will be pulled from the battery and bms stops the over charging.
Nice some REAL power solutions! BRS should take note... lol to anyone whos seen their most recent vid...
Real solutions for real reefers here mate 💪🏻
confused the heck out of me.
Success!! No just kidding, if I can help at all let me know