Float Switch Sensor

[Osler]

By combining the W800RF ( http://www.wgldesigns.com ) and an X-10 door/window sensor (DS10a - http://www.x10.com ) I have set up a float switch to monitor my pool level. Maitaining the level in the winter is a problem because the cover is on, making it difficult to ascertain if the pool is filled appropriately. By removing the reed switch on the DS10a and splicing a float switch in place, the DS10a becomes a liquid level sensor...magic. The only problem now is making sure the DS10a is protected from the elements and can communicate with the W800RF. To increase the range of the W800RF, I attached it to the unused coaxial satellite feed at my "home run" and then attached the antenna that comes with it to the coaxial termination in the attic. My antenna now has great coverage...even outside of the house. Next, I ran low-voltage landscape lighting wire (16g) from the float switch location to an area closer to the house. I took a length of 3/4" PVC conduit and pounded it into the ground several feet, leaving the top of the pipe at about waist level. A hole was drilled in the pipe next to the ground and the low-voltage line was run in and up to the top of the pipe. A dual gang exterior box was placed atop the pipe and then the DS10a was wired in place and then placed in the box to both elevate it and protect it from the elements.

A similar float switch can be found here:

http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewItem~ ... PETAC.html

See pictures for clarity.

[Osler]

Some more pictures. The sensor has been attached such that if the DS10a fails for some reason, "level OK" will be reported. This will be important for the future as this device will be linked to my new Rain8 to make the pools sprinkler-based fill system "smart". Other redundancies will also need to be built into the task to ensure that a 24-hour fill event doesn't occur.

Osler