Security System helping Control Tank?

[crackedcorn]

Does anyone use their security system app to help control their tank? I know a controller can do all these things but security system apps can control light switches, leak sensors, receptacles, live stream cameras etc.
Thoughts?..

 

[mcgyvr]

In essence, any "control" system capable of turning on/off electrical devices can be used to some extent.. How much control is dependent on the functions that system can accomplish.

 

[zachts]

I would think the best use of such a system would be to incorporate tank monitoring into it and possibly the ability to shut things down remotely (assuming you already have the system and adding such capability would be cheaper than buying an APEX etc.) Though the APEX and many controllers can respond to emergencies and shut down without your imput, not sure about a security system. what if you have your phone off for several hours and your tank starts to overflow or the heater malfucntions? Security alerts would tell you but not do anything about it in time..........Just my two cents........

 

[sleepydoc]

I have a Nexia 'home intelligence' system by Schlage that uses z-wave devices. There's also a similar system z-wave system called vera. It lets you monitor things like whether windows/doors are open or closed, (air) temperature and compatible door locks. It's actions are limited to controlling outlets & switches and sending notifications.

You theoretically could do some very basic monitoring with it, but in my experience the communication is not terribly reliable and can be a bit slow. I'm not sure if you could rig appropriate sensors, either.

It may be cheaper than a dedicated reef controller, but it's also much more limited and likely less reliable, so end the end I'm not sure it would be worth it.