THE BRAINS/CONTROLLER
I know there are other options out there (like GHL), but, honestly, I’m not well-versed in programming or anything more than what the APEX Fusion interface asks of you. I needed something that was easy to program/use that has a good reputation within the hobby, so my decision on the controller was pretty easy. Here is the run-down how plan to monitor/control the tank (I’d say this is phase 1, since I’m sure I’ll find other functions down the road):
I know there are other options out there (like GHL), but, honestly, I’m not well-versed in programming or anything more than what the APEX Fusion interface asks of you. I needed something that was easy to program/use that has a good reputation within the hobby, so my decision on the controller was pretty easy. Here is the run-down how plan to monitor/control the tank (I’d say this is phase 1, since I’m sure I’ll find other functions down the road):
- APEX Controller:
- Programmed Functions:
- Return Pumps: I set these both up for Feed Mode (where they reduce speed or turn off during Feed Mode for 10 minutes)
- Heaters/Chiller/Fan: already explained the set up for these before
- Skimmer: I have this set up to turn off if either return pump is off, then delay turning it on after the return pumps turn on to avoid unnecessarily filling the skimmer cup when the water is too high in the sump. I also have a float switch in the skimmer cup (came with the skimmer) that automatically shuts off the skimmer if the skimmer cup is full.
- Auto Fleece Filter Roller: I have this set up to turn off if either return pump is off (otherwise, the float switch that triggers the roller would unnecessarily turn on and waste clean fleece filter).
- ATO: I have this set up to turn off if either return pump is off and delay turning back on for 5 minutes
- Kalkwasser Dosing: I have this set up to turn off if the pH reads higher than 8.5
- EB832 x 2: each one of these is plugged into a separate 20 AMP circuit and I strategically will be splitting up specific pieces of equipment between the two power bars/circuits for redundancy and power consumption purposes. Specifically, I’m splitting up the two heaters, the two cooling units, and the two return pumps just in case one circuit gets tripped or something else goes wrong.
- I/O Breakout Box: I have some plans for this, but not 100% certain what just yet. I’ll likely have it connected to a light/switch so that when I open the shed doors, a light automatically comes on. I’m also considering adding a toggle box to be able to turn on/off certain pieces of equipment by a flip of a switch and/or to notify my when my ATO reservoir is getting low. Still mulling this one over, but its part of the arsenal of control.
- Programmed Functions: