I'm trying to re-work my AWC and I'd like it to pump water out for a set amount of time/volume, but then pump back up to a water level sensor (with a timer for back up). This will work similarly to the Hydros AWC.
The float switch I had (just one of those generic white ones), doesn't appear to be at all reliable. Even fully submerged, it would continue to think the water level was still low. It may have just been the magnet I was using, but I still didn't feel comfortable using it.
I do have an extra optical sensor, but it doesn't work by making or breaking a signal. It seems to just send out a high or low signal (ie 5v vs 1v, IIRC), which isn't going to work with a relay and I'm not really looking to get an arduino or any other circuity involved here.
What I'm looking for is something that can open or close a circuit depending on the water level. Essentially something like this, except with better reviews.
Now, an optical switch will work, provided it has it's own electronics that allow me to use it to drive a relay. For example, I was about to get this one, with the intention of replaying the solenoid valve with my relay, but again, the reviews don't make me very confidant.
BRS used to sell a 'smart outlet' that was connected to a water level sensor. It got terrible reviews, however, I don't know how many of those bad reviews are strictly related to people having issues with the sensor in their skimmer.
They also sell a standalone smart outlet, but I have no idea what inputs it expects in order to make/break the connection (0 vs 5v?, 1v vs 5v?).
So, does anyone know of a decent water level sensor/switch or something else that could accomplish this?
I do see the AutoAqua ATO is back in stock. I haven't given up on just getting that (or a pair of Versas), but that's $300-$400 and my DIY method will be close to free since I already have just about everything I need on hand.
The float switch I had (just one of those generic white ones), doesn't appear to be at all reliable. Even fully submerged, it would continue to think the water level was still low. It may have just been the magnet I was using, but I still didn't feel comfortable using it.
I do have an extra optical sensor, but it doesn't work by making or breaking a signal. It seems to just send out a high or low signal (ie 5v vs 1v, IIRC), which isn't going to work with a relay and I'm not really looking to get an arduino or any other circuity involved here.
What I'm looking for is something that can open or close a circuit depending on the water level. Essentially something like this, except with better reviews.
Now, an optical switch will work, provided it has it's own electronics that allow me to use it to drive a relay. For example, I was about to get this one, with the intention of replaying the solenoid valve with my relay, but again, the reviews don't make me very confidant.
BRS used to sell a 'smart outlet' that was connected to a water level sensor. It got terrible reviews, however, I don't know how many of those bad reviews are strictly related to people having issues with the sensor in their skimmer.
They also sell a standalone smart outlet, but I have no idea what inputs it expects in order to make/break the connection (0 vs 5v?, 1v vs 5v?).
So, does anyone know of a decent water level sensor/switch or something else that could accomplish this?
I do see the AutoAqua ATO is back in stock. I haven't given up on just getting that (or a pair of Versas), but that's $300-$400 and my DIY method will be close to free since I already have just about everything I need on hand.