Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hello,

I am currently looking for a cheap DIY sensor network to monitor the water quality of an aquaponics system. I would like to be able to monitor ammonia especially. I figured that I would find a forum where I can ask some experienced growers if they have developed a sensor system or know of one. I am planning on conducting research to see if I can develope a system that the common man can build and afford.

scotsmansfm.

I've done a fair bit of research into sensors to test water quality, and basically, there isn't what you're looking for.

To measure water temp/level is an easy thing to do (check my sig). Waterproof temp sensors are easy, and water level can be monitored with ping sensors, or conductive strips, and a variety of other options.

Ph can be done, but I'm yet to see if done in aquaponics or an aquarium.
https://www.atlas-scientific.com/produc ... ensor.html

The problem with the PH probe, is that it only works if the tip only is exposed to the water, and a slime coat over the tip (which will happen very quickly) will send bad results. Plus the probe itself isn't cheap, even more expensive once you get the additional things you need to make it work (calibration chemicals/arduino module).

Others can be done:
http://www.vernier.com/products/sensors ... s/no3-bta/

But I haven't seen anybody using them, and I don't know enough about it for a fair explaination.

Feel free to be the first to get it working though.

Thank you for your reply and the links you provided!