dc4 and monitoring

[Kip]

if i have a pump plugged into a dc4 and it is set to run all of the time (return pump)... can i monitor if the pump stops or if power is lost to the dc4 that is running this pump?

pretty much i wanna get an email or text alarm if a pump quits running

can this be done by monitoring the outlet or does this have to be done physically with a float switch?

thanks for any info.

[Aquaduck]

There is no way to use the DC4 to sense if a device is on or off. There is no feedback to the controller.

What you can do is use a float switch as you suggested, in your sump at a high level where it can only be raised during the typical backwash as water flows back to the sump.

The other way would be to install a flow sensor and have it interfaced to the Neptune controller.

[Kip]

hmmmm..... flow sensor.... is that something inline with the plumbing outta the pump?

[Aquaduck]

Yes, and it will be the more costly of the two methods.

[Kip]

time for some more homework

[Kip]

flow sensor.... like the ones they sell to cut power to chillers when the flow stops?

wonder how you'd get the AC3 to monitor that?

[Kip]

sorry... found something else that is more like what you are speaking of i bet

http://www.automatedaquariums.com/mv_v10.htm

[Aquaduck]

Actually, I was thinking about one of these: FLOW SWITCH (http://thomasproducts.thomasnet.com/viewitems/thomas-products-ltd-flow-switch-div-flow-switch/fixed-set-points-1800-series-flow-switch-?&forward=1)

Not cheap by any means.

I don't think the paddle is what you want.