Keep an eye on the water level in your tank using a specially designed wireless alert system.
Whether you’re managing a water tank for your garden, swimming pool, or household, a custom-designed wireless water level alarm can offer you peace of mind. Discover how to construct a personalized wireless alarm system that suits your specific requirements.
Why Opt for a Wireless Water or Salt Tank Level Alarm?
In a previous project, we presented a DIY solution for creating a water level sensor with an ultrasonic sensor for Home Assistant. The device we constructed was a single unit, requiring wired connections and a direct power source. It relied on Home Assistant software for functionality.
However, the alarm system we’re going to construct today comprises a transmitter module and a receiver module that communicate wirelessly, providing real-time data on water or salt levels. This system operates independently of Home Assistant, although it can be effortlessly integrated with Home Assistant if desired.
By crafting a wireless water tank level indicator with an alarm feature, you can address various challenges associated with wired alarm systems:
1. Installation becomes more straightforward, as there’s no need to route wires through walls or ceilings.
2. You can create a single transmitter unit and mount it on the tank, then assemble two or more receiver units at multiple locations to meet your specific needs.
3. Without the presence of wires, there’s less concern about wear and tear.
4. A wire-free setup saves you extra expenses.
5. You can position the receiver at any location without the restrictions associated with wired water level alarms or indicators.
6. Eliminates the risk of voltage leakage or power loss, reducing the risk of electric shock.
Materials Required:
To create your DIY water level sensor with an alarm, you’ll need the following components:
1. ESP8266 microcontroller (e.g., NodeMCU or D1 Mini)
2. 433MHz wireless transmitter and receiver modules—these can be purchased or assembled using HT12E/HT12D encoder-decoder ICs and 433MHz transmitter and receiver circuit modules.
3. Breadboard or printed circuit board (PCB)
4. Jumper wires
5. Electronic components (consult the circuit diagrams for specific details)
6. Soldering iron and solder
7. Screwdriver and pliers
8. 4.2V Li-Ion battery for the transmitter circuit
Step 1: Designing the Circuit for the Wireless Water Tank Alarm
Examine the provided circuit diagrams and accompanying photos for guidance on how to interconnect or solder all the necessary components. Prior to proceeding to the next step, diligently review the circuit diagram and verify the connections with the components on the breadboard or PCB for any potential errors or omissions.
In the transmitter circuit, you can connect four float switches (connect the common wire to all float switches, then link the data wires) and position them inside your water tank in accordance with the transmitter circuit diagram. Once the water level reaches a specific point, the float switch will activate, sending a high signal to the receiver module, subsequently illuminating the corresponding LED.
Alternatively, you have the option to utilize metal strips adhered to the interior of the water tank instead of float switches. Nevertheless, if this water is intended for consumption, it is advisable to employ float switches or construct the ultrasonic water level sensor.
Step 2: Testing the Wireless Water Tank Alarm
Before installing the wireless water tank alarm, it is imperative to conduct a comprehensive test to ensure its proper functioning. Place all the float switches inside an empty bucket, ensuring they are positioned at different levels, as indicated in the transmitter circuit diagram.
Next, connect the power source to both the transmitter and receiver modules. Initiate the process of filling the tank with water. As the water level increases, the initial float switch should activate, and you should observe an LED on the receiver module illuminate. Subsequently, all LEDs should activate as other float switches become buoyant with the rising water level.
Following this, relocate the receiver and transmitter units away from each other to determine the effective communication range within your premises. Confirm that the data is successfully received, and the LEDs respond according to the transmitted information.
If you require extended communication range, consider attaching an antenna (if provided with the module, or acquire a separate antenna for both the transmitter and receiver modules).
Step 3: Installation of the Wireless Water Level Alarm in the Tank
Once you’ve completed your testing and are satisfied with the results, proceed to install the wireless water tank alarm. Ensure that the transmitter module is placed outside the water tank, securely housed in a protective container, preferably a plastic enclosure or a 3D-printed case sealed with silicone to guard against weather-related damage.
Step 4: Integration with Home Assistant for Automation
Furthermore, you have the option to link a NodeMCU or D1 Mini microcontroller to the receiver circuit, transforming your wireless water tank system into a smart one. By connecting this circuit to Home Assistant, you can create automated actions, such as shutting off the water pump when the water level reaches 100% and vice versa.
You can also configure an automation to receive real-time notifications on your smartphone regarding the status of the water level in your tank(s).
To accomplish this, simply extend the receiver circuit with a NodeMCU or D1 Mini, as depicted in the circuit diagram below. Then, compile and flash the provided code using ESPHome.
For comprehensive instructions on coding in ESPHome, compiling firmware, and flashing it onto the NodeMCU or D1 Mini, consult our guide on creating a wireless doorbell with Home Assistant.
Moreover, you can access the IP address of the NodeMCU or D1 Mini (once it’s connected to your Wi-Fi network and Home Assistant) to monitor the system’s status.
Save Water and Conserve Energy with Your DIY Wireless Water Tank Alarm
Constructing your own DIY wireless water tank alarm is a fulfilling and budget-friendly endeavor. This project, once implemented, offers peace of mind by curbing water wastage, conserving energy, and saving you money. In contrast to wired water tank alarms, this system can be conveniently deployed and is ideal for those who prefer to avoid the complexities of extensive wiring around their property.