Pentair Suntouch -- Remote Wired Button to Turn the Spa On/Off?

[vamesvames]

Hi -- I've learned a lot from TFP over the years but this is my first post!

I'm running a Pentair Suntouch controller with my pool/spa setup, with an Intelliflow pump, solar panels and a gas heater. Everything works like it is supposed to -- circ., spa, solar, and three valves.

When I press the Spa button, it automatically turns two valves to the appropriate sides and activates the heater.

Now I'd like to add a remote wired momentary pushbutton/switch that can mimic the function of the Spa button (I want to turn my spa on and off without having to climb back to my equipment pad, open the Suntouch door and pressing the spa button).

I know that Pentair offers the iS4 wired spa-side remote and the QT4 wireless remote, but I feel like these two products are obscenely expensive for what they are. So, is there any way to wire a nice weatherproof momentary switch to the Comm port of the Suntouch that would allow me to turn the spa on and off?

 

[ajw22]

I know that Pentair offers the iS4 wired spa-side remote and the QT4 wireless remote, but I feel like these two products are obscenely expensive for what they are.

I don't see a connection for the IS4. If it is there you can connect a momentary contact switch to mimic the IS4.

So, is there any way to wire a nice weatherproof momentary switch to the Comm port of the Suntouch that would allow me to turn the spa on and off?

Nope, do not do that or you will blow your comm port.

 

[Jimrahbe]

Va,

Let's see of Tom has any option for you... Calling @ogdento

He might respond here, or send you a PM..

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[ogdento]

there's no way to connect a momentary switch (which is effectively what the IS4 is)...

The comm port is the only available expansion option, so you'd have to use something that can use rs485 and speak Pentair's language... and as far as I'm aware the Quicktouch is the only product available, which as you said, is ridiculously expensive for what it is.

You could look into nodejs pool controller but I think if you go down that road you'll probably toss the suntouch altogether.

 

[vamesvames]

Thanks guys. I guess even the simple lowly IS4 isn't even an option! So if I ever want to be able to turn my spa on and off without going back to the pad and opening the Sun Touch door, I'd have to go with a $350 Quicktouch.

My rant: It feels like pool control tech has really missed the boat in the last 20 years! Compare it to home thermostats which (although they are operationally simpler) offer you full-function wirelessly networked units for less than $100. Or smartphones which have incredible computing power for just a few hundred bucks. The fact that they even sell the Sun Touch any more (with its LCD screen/six buttons/layered menus) is kinda a joke. Maybe it is time to try and build a raspberry pi-based DIY system as noted above!