Input on automation equipment

[JingoFresh]

I would like some input on if a controller makes sense to me, or if I should wait.

At the moment, I have just an Tunez ATO, and powerheads that I leave running 24/7. No corals in the tank, just CUC and peppermint shrimp.

I'm yet to buy a light, but I was especially interested in the reefbreeders lights, however these are noted not to work with controllers.


Eventually I want to have dosing, water changes be automated, recording data over time as well as set alarms for ammonia or salinity (these last two maybe using seneye stuff).

So, my questions is this: Should I wait to buy a controller (and if so a light that works with a controller) or wait until the end of this year when I will be attempting a DIY controller via raspberry pi.

I am away from home a lot...., this is why I am wondering. Is dosing fine to be handled manually? Is there really an advantage over a light that can interface with a controller over one that cannot?

Thank you for your input.

 

[f3honda4me]

Biggest reason I would never do a tank without a controller again is because of controlling your thermometers. Especially if you are away from home a lot. I'd wager failed heaters are one of the biggest reasons for tank crashes, because when they fail they tend to "stick" on and cook the tank.

 

[Mishri]

If you are worried about heaters going out.. first.. get an eheim jager, never had one fail on me. second, you can use one of these for a failsafe:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01129670...lid=11K5RF81WKFM2&coliid=I38EV6EKKAICZH&psc=1

temperture controller, shuts off the outlet(s) if it gets too hot/cold. There is a less expensive model for just one direction (hot or cold).

IMO most of the controllers are still quite expensive for what they do.. Like you mentioned, you can build one yourself for a lot less... and you can still have it push updates to your phone.

 

[Str8linespeed]

I wanted a backup for my heater as well. I followed this video and built my own. It was less than $20 as I shopped around for parts.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCqPnXpxHTU

I no longer use this as I have finally upgraded to a controller on my tank.

As for a controller for you. I personally would wait until you have the majority of your equipment and what you have decided on for your pumps, powerheads, lights etc..

Then once your happy with your tank and how everything is running look into picking up a controller. Find the right controller that fits your needs. The sale forum here, has a lot of different controllers come thru pretty often. Also go with what you can afford and actually need on your system.