This is my first post, but a long time reader and lurker. I wanted to replace my controller on my HotSpring Spa since it had finally gave out after almost 20 years of service and getting a new IQ2020 controller is just to expensive for what it does and the lack of any kind of integrations or smarts. I know everyone has seen the posts of the DIY controllers and they do the basics with some extra connectivity like alerts but no real way to control the spa easily. Some others are just a bit more complicated to reproduce as a DIY and are just not what i am looking for. So i decided to make my own solution that is almost a drop-in replacement so everything fits in place of an IQ2020. But i would like some input as to other "i wish i could do" spa moments like asking Alexa what the hot tub temperature is or to start the jets, or even on the more technical side like an API to control the spa by other means or future technology. So i would like to have some input from experienced Spa people what would be something that you would like to have in your controller.
New Spa/Hot Tub controller wish list
- Thread starter syntax1269
- Start date
-
- Tags
- api controller diy wifi
- Jun 1, 2018
- 16,000
- Pool Size
- 26000
- Surface
- Vinyl
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- Hayward Aqua Rite (T-15)
A nice to have type thing would be remote temp control. I don’t change my temp much but I do get forgetful and not turn it down when ambient temps rise sometimes or forget to turn it back up before the cold spell hits. I mostly change it with the seasons & maintain that constant temperature.
But It would be especially helpful for those who have stronger heaters and leave their temp lower until they plan to use the spa. I have no need to turn the jets on remotely while the spa is covered.
My swcg is just on a basic timer and that seems to work fine with only a couple seasonal changes necessary due to increased use so I haven’t replaced that with a smart plug yet. I do use a smart speaker (echo) for my patio sound system and recently put my patio lights on a smart plug out of necessity but my hubby absolutely hates talking to alexa and it frustrates him.
I can see the need for some automation for a spa that is tied to a pool where valves & and shared heating are involved but not so much for a standalone spa.
But It would be especially helpful for those who have stronger heaters and leave their temp lower until they plan to use the spa. I have no need to turn the jets on remotely while the spa is covered.
My swcg is just on a basic timer and that seems to work fine with only a couple seasonal changes necessary due to increased use so I haven’t replaced that with a smart plug yet. I do use a smart speaker (echo) for my patio sound system and recently put my patio lights on a smart plug out of necessity but my hubby absolutely hates talking to alexa and it frustrates him.
I can see the need for some automation for a spa that is tied to a pool where valves & and shared heating are involved but not so much for a standalone spa.
Something really nice to have is a UL listing so you know it's not going to burn your house down.
I'm sorry, but unless you build digital spa control systems for a living you have no business building a control system. You are potentially risking the life of everyone around it.
Aftermarket systems are under $500 in some cases. If you're going to build electronics just do a little plumbing work instead. Alot less liability that way.
I'm sorry, but unless you build digital spa control systems for a living you have no business building a control system. You are potentially risking the life of everyone around it.
Aftermarket systems are under $500 in some cases. If you're going to build electronics just do a little plumbing work instead. Alot less liability that way.
