In-Sump Flood Switch: Apex

[gdemos]

I have read about waterbug for flood detection but not sure it would be dependable for my application and looking for advice.

My best means of detecting a return pump failure is by observing my webcams on the tanks...but i'd like some redundancy, and thought of a flood switch connected to Apex.
But i don't want to put it on the floor, i want to put it in the sumps, so if the return pumps fail -- sump level rises -- the switch triggers.

my concern on something like the waterbug is that it may be triggered by waterspray common in the sump, or even surface movement in the sump (lots of movement in there)? yes/no?

Any best suggestions?

Then of course I need to program Apex by this flood detection (to shut off reactors, UV, etc.)
Thanks,
-Greg

[mets17127]

Are you running a HOB overflow? The only reason I see a return pump failure causing a flood is back syphon. If that's what your worried about, drill a hole on the return hjust below the water level and/or install a check valve.

[gdemos]

correct, back syphon, raises water level in sump (not a flood)... but a flood switch would tell me if the sump level increases beyond normal level (due to return pump failure, ATO mechanical float switch failure, etc.). I'm sure this is a pretty common desire for many but with so many threads I couldn't find a quick answer.

[Indymann99]

Float switches in return chamber - connected via breakout box on APEX

ReturnLow - shuts off return pump
ATOswitchA1 - controls ATO on/off
ReturnHi - shuts off ATO pump and skimmer

[gdemos]

Thanks Indy. What float switches are you using? I have 2 PM1s. Each with one vacant I/O

[Indymann99]

Digital Aquatics I think... but there are lots out there, a quick search will give you options.

[gdemos]

this looks ideal:
http://www.avastmarine.com/ssc/do/product/Top-off-Kit

otherwise since I have a PM1 and no break-out box, I'd require a $40 breakout box, the float switch, and a decent bracket.

the avast setup has a real nice magnet and pre-wired with the appropriate Apex I/O connection. avast may be more expensive than an otherwised pieced-together approach, but may be worth it.

thanks,
-Greg

[ca1ore]

FWIW, easy enough to make a breakout box. Not pretty, but I got enough parts to make two for about $10.

[Donkeykong]

if you want something that is just out of the box plug and play then the avast is going to be a good choice. But it would be cheaper to go breakout box with a switch and bracket. Then you would have the option to do more switches or sensors in the future.

[Indymann99]

I just made a breakout box (white box) for <$20 in parts.

I currently only use 4 of the ports for floats but I can add 2x more in the future if needed. Also I just used RJ11 jacks so I can disconnect floats easily (no tools) for cleaning in the sink.

[gdemos]

Nice work Indy! I've done some RJ11 connectors in the past but not sure I trust my DIY skills on this one. I'm the guy that hopes one of my kids grows up to be more inclined than I. Dad just clean the algae I got the apex coding.