Burtons Automatic Pond Water Top-Up System

Burtons Automatic Pond Water Top-Up System

Automatic water-level control with separate high and low sensors

The Burtons Automatic Pond Water Top-Up System replaces evaporation and small routine water losses without leaving a hose running or relying on a mechanical float valve inside the pond. Two level sensors create a controlled operating band: when the water falls below the lower sensor the controller opens the supplied solenoid valve, then closes it when the water reaches the upper sensor.

That two-point control is useful on koi ponds, formal ponds and filter installations where a stable level matters. It prevents the valve repeatedly switching for every small ripple, while the standard sensor spacing gives an approximately 20mm level difference that can be adjusted during installation.

Our practical advice: an automatic top-up replaces lost water; it does not explain why water is being lost. Mark the normal level and investigate any sudden increase in top-up demand before assuming it is evaporation.

What is supplied

• Electronic control unit with 3m mains cable
• High and low water-level sensors
• 5m sensor-to-controller cable
• 1/2-inch BSP solenoid valve with 1.5m cable
• Approximately 20mm standard level differential, adjustable to suit the installation
• Burtons one-year manufacturer guarantee

Plan the water supply properly

The solenoid has 1/2-inch BSP connections on both sides. Use secure, supported fittings and install the valve in the orientation specified by Burtons. Mains water entering a fish pond must also be treated for chlorine and chloramine, so pair the system with a correctly sized pond dechlorinator and keep its cartridges within their service life.

Position the sensors where waves, vigorous aeration and skimmer drawdown will not create false readings. The controller and electrical connection must be installed in a suitable dry, protected location, with RCD protection and professional electrical advice where required.

Where an automatic top-up helps

Stable water level is particularly helpful for in-wall skimmers, gravity-fed filters and ponds with a small operating tolerance. It also reduces the chance of a pump running short of water during warm weather. It should never be treated as a substitute for checking the pond: inspect the level, purifier and top-up history regularly.

Frequently asked questions

Does this remove chlorine from tap water?

No. It controls the water level only. Pass mains water through an appropriate dechlorinator before it enters a fish pond.

What happens when the water drops?

The controller opens the solenoid below the lower sensor and closes it when the upper sensor is reached.

Can the 20mm level difference be altered?

Yes. Burtons describes the sensor spacing as adjustable, so it can be set to suit the safe operating band of the pond and filter.

Will it hide a pond leak?

It can replace water lost through a leak, which is why changes in top-up frequency must be investigated promptly.

Can it be used with a skimmer?

Yes. Maintaining the designed water level can help a skimmer work consistently, provided the sensors are positioned away from turbulence.

What size are the valve connections?

The supplied solenoid valve has 1/2-inch BSP connections on both sides.

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Complete the top-up installation

This electronic system controls the refill; it does not make tap water safe for fish. Feed the replacement water through a correctly sized 10-inch or 20-inch Burtons dechlorinator, and stay within the purifier’s recommended flow.

If you prefer a separate mechanical float-valve chamber with its own overflow, compare the Burtons Pond Top-Up Box. It serves a similar water-level purpose but uses a different control method.