I have been searching and not finding anyone having done what I want to do. Not sure if this is a better suited project for Arduino or Pi so seeking a little guidance. The dumb version is simple and I have it worked out already. It is 4 switches, a dual relay board, a dual output power supply and a 12v dc pump.
Two switches in series for the aquarium itself. One for water level which is normal open, closes when the water level drops. The second is normally closed and slightly above the first...it opens with water touches it to prevent over fill should the primary switch fail to open again at normal water level.
In the top off reservoir there will be two more switches at the same level. One normal closed and in series with the two above and the 4th switch is solo and closed. Reservoir empty opens the 1 of 3 to prevent the pump from running dry. The 4th closes and sets off a flashing LED and chirping alarm.
All of that is simple enough, done, tested and functioning.
Where the "smarts" come in is notification and data gathering. This is also where I have ZERO idea how to do or what to do that which I would like done.
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In addition to the basic alarm described above I would like the 4th switch to trigger a text alert to my phone and/or an email. Either device could simply be on my WiFi network or I could easily drop a network cable. I could really stop here and be happy but why stop right?
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it would be nice to set up a time to run limit on the pump as a secondary safety to the upper switch.
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monitor how often the pump runs and for how long.
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If the timer or upper switch kills the pump send alert and maybe keep it offline till its manually.
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What is the water temp and ambient air temp when the pump runs...and maybe measure the humidity as well.
So, any thoughts?