I’ve always been intrigued by the idea of automating my home, especially when it comes to monitoring systems that can prevent potential issues before they become major problems. Recently, I decided to tackle a project that combines both automation and DIY skills: creating a smart water level monitoring system for my heater and air conditioner units. Here’s how I did it and what I learned along the way!
The Challenge
Like many others, I have a condensation heater and air conditioner units that drip condensate water outside through a drain pipe. While this is a normal process, I wanted to ensure that the water tank never overflows, which could lead to leaks and damage. Traditional float switches are a common solution, but I wanted something more integrated with my smart home setup.
The Solution
After some research, I stumbled upon a Zigbee water leak sensor and a steel floating switch. The idea was to repurpose the leak sensor to trigger an alarm when the water level reaches a certain point. Here’s a breakdown of the components and steps I took:
Components:
- Tuya Zigbee Water Leak Sensor: Perfect for detecting water levels and integrating with my existing Zigbee network.
- Steel Floating Switch: Acts as the trigger mechanism when the water level rises.
- Cables and Soldering Tools: For connecting the floating switch to the sensor.
- Sensor Batteries: Keep everything running smoothly.
- Optional 3D Printed Bracket: For a neat and secure installation.
Building the System:
- Pairing the Sensor: I started by pairing the Zigbee sensor with my Sonoff Dongle, ensuring it was recognized by my Home Assistant setup.
- Modifying the Sensor: I opened the sensor case and replaced the original probes with the floating switch cables. This involved a bit of soldering, but it was straightforward once I figured out the right connections.
- Assembly and Testing: After installing the batteries and securing everything in a plastic case for water resistance, I tested the setup. The sensor was incredibly reactive, which gave me confidence in its reliability.
Mounting Outside:
To protect the sensor from the elements, I mounted it in an L-shaped bracket and enclosed it in a plastic bag. This ensures it stays dry even during light rain. The floating switch was attached to the water tank, and I made sure the system was secure and out of the way.
Final Thoughts
The result is a seamless integration with my smart home ecosystem. I can monitor the water level in real-time through Home Assistant and receive notifications or voice alerts via Alexa if the water level gets too high. The system has been running smoothly for months now, giving me peace of mind.
This project was a great learning experience, combining hardware hacking with smart home automation. It also shows how affordable and accessible it is to create custom solutions for your home. If you’re looking for a fun and practical DIY project, I highly recommend giving this a try!
Do you have any tips for improving this setup or similar projects? I’d love to hear your thoughts!