I boiled up an IAL and tucked it away in the corner. So far the shrimp have been unimpressed with it, but I think that will do the trick for my 2 week vacation. Thanks for the wide consensus and suggestions on that topic.
Evaporation is an important part of my overall shimp-ecosystem due to it's cooling effect on the tank.
My AC runs 78F and my tank runs about 75F.
Covering the tank will effectivly raise the temprature while maintaining water level and mineral concentrations.
If I cover the tank, I think I should also shut off the CO2, due to much lower O2 exchange (especially if I used saran wrap)
If I add an ATO (overall it's an attractive idea) I increase risk of flooding (depending on how sophisticated I get)
If I ATO, I will need an additional reseviour of pure RO for top offs.
If I were to drip ATO with overflow, I would need to drill a hole in the wall for the wastewater. This would have to be done in top secrecy to avoid the wrath-of-spouse.
I typically do not top off but instead do a 10% water change once a week.
Start of water change is typically about 150-170TDS
Incoming water is 110-120TDS reconstituted RO (with ferts for the plants)
Post change TDS is usually around 140-150.
There are no neighbors close that I would trust with my tank.
I am leaning heavily towards KISS and not do anything about evaporation and simply water change when I get home.
(Tank with IAL tucked away)