Pentair Pool Controller

For last couple of years, I have been looking for good automation system that I can use to automate my backyard pool and spa. All current systems available are outdated and overpriced. It is mind blowing to see how much Pentair, Zodiak or Hayward are charging for their systems. So, I decided to build my own.

It is powered by RaspberyPi running NodeJS, Node-Red, Node Red Dashboard coupled with 16 relays module and IntelliComm® II Interface Adapter. I really could have implemented software solution instead of overpriced adapter but I decided to focus on building hardware first.

Here is the view of AQUALINK® POWER CENTERS and Pool Controller Altelix enclosure:

View of assembled controller

View of Intermatic PE24VA Valve Actuators

View of sub-panel with breakers

Tempreture Sensors Assembly

I used DS18b20 Waterproof Temperature Sensors that I glued with J-B Weld epoxy to 1/2 in. MIP x 1/4 in. FIP Lead-Free Brass Pipe Hex Bushing and 1/4 in. x 1/4 in. MIP Lead-Free Brass Hose Barb Adapter.

Parts:

1. 1/2 in. MIP x 1/4 in. FIP Lead-Free Brass Pipe Hex Bushing
2. 1/4 in. x 1/4 in. MIP Lead-Free Brass Hose Barb Adapter
3. J-B Weld

FireTablet wall controller

Breadboard and Schematic

Here is the list of the components I used:

1. Raspberry Pi 3 Model B Board
2. SainSmart 16-Channel Relay Module
3. IntelliComm® II Interface Adapter
4. Altelix NEMA Enclosure 17x14x6
5. Omron G7L-2A-BUBJ-CB DC24 Relays
6. 8 Positions Dual Row 600V 25A Screw Terminals
7. DS18b20 Waterproof Temperature Sensors
8. Intermatic PE24VA Valve Actuators
9. AQUALINK® POWER CENTERS Model 6614-LD
10. IntelliFlo® VSF Variable Speed Pump
11. MASTERTEMP HEATER
12. MEAN WELL MDR-60-24 DIN-Rail Power Supply 24V 2.5 Amp 60W
13. DIN Rail Power Supplies 20W 12V 1.67A
14. MEAN WELL MDR-20-5 AC to DC DIN-Rail Power Supply 5V 3 Amp 15W

In future I am planning

1. Integrate my system with analog sensors like flow, pressure, pH, and current sensors.
2. Build wall unit controller using some old android tablet.
3. Integrate with Google Assistance and Alexa.
4. Install Time Series database with Graphana so I can start collecting and visualizing historical sensor data

Useful References

1. RS485 Adapter Software Implementation
2. SunTouch / QuickTouch RS-485 Protocol