Reef tank automation and controllers

What I set up

Why automate

A reef tank can go wrong while you're asleep or away. A heater sticks, the top-off runs dry, or water ends up on the floor. A controller with temperature, level and leak sensors can tell your phone when a reading drifts, so you hear about it early instead of finding it later. Failsafes on the outputs give you a backstop.

How it connects

Everything plugs into the outlets you already have.

Automation uses plug-in equipment and the aquarium's own sensors. It doesn't involve changes to household wiring. If your system needs more power, see power planning.

Once it's running, the controller's readings are also useful on maintenance visits and when you're working through a stocking plan.

Common questions

What does a reef tank controller do?

A reef controller watches the tank and acts on what it sees. It runs outputs, schedules and failsafes, reads probes such as temperature and pH, handles dosing and top-off, and sends phone alerts when something drifts. That way you hear about a stuck heater or a leak early, instead of finding it later.

Does reef tank automation need an electrician?

No, not the way I set it up. Automation uses plug-in equipment and the aquarium's own sensors, with no changes to household wiring. If your system ever needs a new circuit or outlet, a licensed electrician you hire directly does that part, using the power summary in your plan.