Pool Automation, Salt System and Temperature

[deirwin]

I have an ELK M1G and Insteon system. I'd like to add pool salt system and automate pool functions, but all posts and suggestions are years old. I'd like to:

 

1. Monitor temperature via iPad, computer, Elk system

2. Monitor Chlorine levels

3. Control Salt System remotely

4. Turn filter on remotely

 

Does anybody have any wisdom or advice in this area? I can't figure out which salt system is good or how to get water temperature into system (we do have room and outdoor temps already in system).

 

Any feedback or suggestions will be greatly appreciated!

 

Dean

[stevehoyt]

FYI

 

 

I have been doing what you want via the Pentair Screenlogic interface except for the interface from the pool to ELK and am satisfied with it...

 

It is fun to have the pool heated when I get to the vacation home and to monitor how much the renters use it when it is rented

[sperok]

We also have a Pentair Screenlogic and can monitor the pool with it, controlling it via the web and iPhone. The system in general works as advertised and provides good visibility and control. The software is licensed from Homelogic.

 

AFAIK there is NO WAY (at reasonable cost) to monitor chlorine levels. The Pentair chlorine generators (and most others out there) simply generate chlorine at a programmable rate which can be changed via the automation interface (0-100% duty cycle).

 

For a home automation enthusiast or remote application, Screenlogic has a few major deficiencies:

 

- It is a closed system with no API's

- The RS-485/Ethernet protocol adapter which they sell is perfect for integrating with the ISY, with one small problem, they have implemented an undocumented binary protocol which they proxy through a server.

- To integrate with an HA system you need a separate serial interface locally terminated to your HA system (can't do this with the ISY, but you may be able to connect it to your ELK)

- For remote access the proxy which they use requires a low latency broadband connection. In my case the property where I have this installed is remote, with only wireless access. Screenlogic often "fails to connect" and when it does get connected consistently loses connections multiple times while monitoring or trying to get something done.

 

If I had it to do all over again, I would not use Screenlogic, but would think about "rolling my own" pool system using Insteon/ELK controlled relays for the pumps/filters. Not sure how I would control the heater at this moment, but sure it could be figured out.