DIY WiFi Smart Water Pump Controller S1 – Build Your Own Smart Water Management System

Introduction:

Are you ready to take control of your water management system using smart technology? In this Instructable, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to build your very own WiFi Smart Water Pump Controller S1 —a device designed to automate and remotely control water pumps. This project is perfect for anyone looking to create a professional-grade smart water pump controller without relying on pre-made solutions

The WiFi Smart Water Pump Controller S1 is a powerful tool for automating the filling of water tanks, cisterns, and other storage systems. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a fully functional device that allows you to schedule, monitor, and control your water pump from anywhere using WiFi .

Why Build the WiFi Smart Water Pump Controller S1?

The WiFi Smart Water Pump Controller S1 is a smart, efficient, and reliable solution for automating water pump operations. By building it yourself, you can enjoy all its advanced features while customizing it to fit your specific needs. Here’s why this project is worth your time:

1. WiFi Connectivity for Remote Control:
2. The Pump Controller S1 allows you to control your water pump remotely via a web app on your laptop, cell phone or tablet, giving you full control over its operation from anywhere.
3. Customizable Scheduling:
4. Set precise schedules for your pump to operate, ensuring it runs only when needed. This is ideal for irrigation systems, aquariums, or water reservoirs
5. Energy Efficiency:
6. By automating pump operations, the Pump Controller S1 reduces unnecessary energy consumption, saving electricity and extending the lifespan of your pump
7. Dry Run Protection:
8. The Pump Controller S1 includes built-in dry run protection, which automatically shuts off the pump if the water source runs dry, preventing damage to the equipment
9. Water Level Monitoring (Essential for Automation):
10. The Water Level S1 Sensor is crucial for automating the water pump based on real-time water levels. It triggers the pump to turn on when the water level drops below a specific threshold and turns it off when the desired level is reached. Additionally, features like Dry Run Protection rely on this sensor to detect low water levels or lack of flow, ensuring the pump operates safely and efficiently
11. Compact and Easy to Install:
12. Designed for simplicity, the Pump Controller S1 is compact and easy to set up, even for beginners. Its straightforward wiring makes installation hassle-free
13. Cost-Effective Solution:
14. Building the Pump Controller S1 yourself is more affordable than purchasing a pre-made controller, and it allows you to customize the design to suit your needs.

By building the WiFi Smart Water Pump Controller S1 , you’ll gain a powerful tool for automating and optimizing your water management system. Whether you’re managing a garden, aquarium, or water tank, the Pump Controller S1 offers convenience, efficiency, and peace of mind.

Let’s get started! 🚰💡

What You’ll Need:

To build the WiFi Smart Water Pump Controller S1 , you’ll need the following components:

1. Electronics Components:
2. SmartSwitch C3 Module (OpenHardware)
3. buy here at easyeda jlcpcb click at Order menu
4. Display Module SSD1306, 0.96 Inch OLED 128X64, IIC I2C (3.3v)
5. Buy at https://www.aliexpress.us/w/wholesale-Display-Module-SSD1306%2C-0.96-Inch-OLED-128X64%2C-IIC.html
6. External 2.4GHz WiFi Antenna (3dBi or 5dBi) with IPEX3 connector
7. buy at https://www.aliexpress.us/w/wholesale-IPEX3-with-3dbi-antenna.html
8. USB-C Cable to program or power the SmartSwitch C3 Module
9. 10cm Male-to-Female (M-F) Dupont Jumper Wires, 4-pin
10. Enclosure:
11. Case or container to protect the electronics
12. Tools:
13. 3D Printer (for case)
14. .stl and FreeCad OpenSource files here
15. PETG filament or durable filament
16. M3 Stainless Steel Screws
17. Five m3 screws 6mm length for attach SmartSwitch C3 Module to case.
18. Two m3 screws 6mm length for attach case lid

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1. Hot glue silicone for glue the screen in the case.
2. Software:
3. Arduino IDE (for programming the microcontroller)
4. Smartphone and computer for configuration

1. Collect all the required components listed above.
2. Test each component individually to ensure it works before assembly.
3. Print the case base, remember use PTG or durable material.

1. Prepare the Case Base:
2. Begin by placing the case base on a flat, stable surface. Ensure the interior is clean and free of debris to avoid any interference during assembly.
3. Position the SmartSwitch C3 Module:
4. Carefully align the SmartSwitch C3 Module with the mounting holes in the base of the case. The module should sit flush against the surface for optimal stability and heat dissipation.
5. Secure the Module with Screws:
6. Use five M3 screws , each no longer than 6mm , to fasten the module securely to the case.
7. Insert the screws through the mounting holes on the module and into the corresponding threaded inserts or standoffs in the case.
8. Tighten the screws gently using a Phillips-head screwdriver. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the PCB or strip the threads.
9. Check that screw head don't touch copper aeas. If necessary place plastic washers to prevent contact, when using screws with very large heads.
10. Double-Check Alignment:
11. Ensure the module is firmly attached and properly aligned. The USB-C port and button should face the correct direction for easy access once the case is closed.

1. Print the lid:
2. The WiFi antenna SMA mounting is located at case lid. Print the lid before install the antenna.
3. Choose the Right Antenna:
4. Ensure you have an IPEX3 (U.FL) compatible Wi-Fi antenna. The SmartSwitch C3 Module uses an IPEX3 connector, so using the correct antenna type is crucial for a secure and reliable connection.
5. Attach the Antenna:
6. Locate the IPEX3 connector on the ESP32-C3 module. It’s a small, gold-colored plug near the edge of the PCB.
7. Carefully align the antenna’s IPEX3 connector with the port on the module.
8. Gently press down on the connector until it clicks into place. Be cautious not to apply too much force, as the IPEX3 connector is delicate and can be damaged if mishandled.
9. Secure the Antenna in Place:
10. Once connected, position the IPEX3-to-SMA cable inside the case to avoid interference with other components. The SMA end of the cable can be securely attached to the case by screwing it into the designated SMA mounting hole at lid. This ensures the antenna remains firmly in place and prevents movement during handling or operation.
11. Antenna Recommendation:
12. For optimal performance, we recommend using a 5 dBi Wi-Fi antenna . This provides better signal strength and range compared to lower-gain antennas, ensuring stable connectivity even in areas with weak Wi-Fi signals.
13. Double-Check the Connection:
14. After installation, gently tug on the antenna to confirm it’s securely attached. A loose connection can result in poor Wi-Fi performance or complete signal loss.

Tips for Success:

1. Positioning Matters: Keep the antenna away from metal objects or large obstructions inside the case, as these can interfere with the Wi-Fi signal.
2. Test Signal Strength: After assembly, test the Wi-Fi connection to ensure the antenna is functioning correctly. If the signal is weak, reposition the antenna or check the connection.

1. Connect the Display:

Wire the SSD1306 OLED display to your SmartSwitch C3 Module using the I2C pins as displayed at reference image.

1. Secure the Display:
2. Use hot glue or another adhesive to fix the display in place, ideally in the designated slot or groove on your project’s enclosure. Avoid applying pressure directly on the screen
3. Test the Display:
4. After complete the firmware upload, test to confirm the display works. If issues arise, double-check wiring and verify the I2C address.

By following these steps, you’ll have a securely mounted and functional display ready for real-time monitoring! 🖥️💡

1. Set Up Arduino IDE for ESP32-C3:
2. Open the Arduino IDE on your computer.
3. If you haven’t already, install the ESP32 board support package:
4. Go to File > Preferences , and add the following URL to the "Additional Boards Manager URLs" field:

1. Then, go to Tools > Board > Boards Manager , search for "ESP32," and install the latest version.
2. Install Required Libraries:
3. Open the firmware code from the repository: SmartPumpControllerS1.ino.
4. At the top of the file, you’ll find a list of required libraries. Install these libraries via the Library Manager in Arduino IDE:
5. Go to Sketch > Include Library > Manage Libraries , and search for each library listed (e.g., WiFi, HTTPClient, etc.). Install the same versions described at top of the file, if decide to install more recent or older libs it could not work if they are not compatible.
6. Configure the Code:
7. Before uploading, review and modify the configuration settings in the code as needed:
8. Set a custom cloud service.
9. Disable live updates.
10. Enable debug, etc...
11. Connect the SmartSwitch C3 Module:
12. Connect the SmartSwitch C3 Module to your computer using a USB-C cable.
13. Ensure the correct port is selected in Arduino IDE:
14. Go to Tools > Port and choose the COM port assigned to your device (e.g., COM3 on Windows or /dev/cu.usbserial-* on macOS/Linux).
15. Upload the Firmware:
16. Select the appropriate board and settings in Arduino IDE:
17. Go to Tools > Board and select ESP32C3 Dev Module .
18. Set Upload Speed to 921600 (or lower if you encounter issues).
19. To upload the firmware, follow these steps carefully:
20. Press and hold the BOOT button on the ESP32-C3 module.
21. While holding the BOOT button, connect the USB-C cable to your computer.
22. Continue holding the BOOT button for about 7 seconds to ensure the module enters bootloader mode.
23. Release the BOOT button and immediately click the Upload button in Arduino IDE (the arrow icon).
24. The IDE will compile the code and upload it to the SmartSwitch C3 Module. You should see progress messages in the console, followed by a confirmation that the upload was successful.
25. Verify Operation:
26. Once the firmware is uploaded, open the Serial Monitor in Arduino IDE (Tools > Serial Monitor ) and set the baud rate to 115200.
27. Check the output to ensure the device create a Wi-Fi hotspot, note that WiFi antenna should be connected properly or SmartSwitch C3 Module will not boot.
28. Check the WiFi Smart Water Pump Controller S1 to learn more about how operate the device.
29. Close the Lid:
30. Once you have confirmed that the firmware has been loaded properly, close the device lid. Secure it to the base using two M3 screws with a length of 6mm. Ensure the screws are tightened snugly, but avoid over-tightening to prevent damage to the threads or the case material

Tips for Success:

1. Boot Button Timing: Holding the BOOT button for at least 7 seconds before connecting the USB cable ensures the ESP32-C3 enters bootloader mode reliably. Skipping this step may result in upload failures.
2. Power Supply: Ensure your USB-C cable and power source can deliver sufficient current (at least 500mA) to avoid brownouts during upload.
3. Debugging: If the upload fails, double-check the board settings, port selection, and wiring. You can also try lowering the upload speed in Arduino IDE.

Congratulations! 🎉 You’ve successfully built your very own WiFi Smart Water Pump Controller S1 . With this device, you now have a powerful tool to automate and manage your water pump system with precision, convenience, and efficiency

Whether you’re automating the filling of water tanks, cisterns, or other storage systems, your new controller will save time, energy, and resources.

To ensure you get the most out of your newly created device, we highly recommend reviewing the official WiFi Smart Water Pump Controller S1 User Manual available at https://waterlevel.pro/manuals/WiFi-Smart-Water-Pump-Controller-S1 . The manual contains detailed instructions on advanced features, troubleshooting tips, and maintenance guidelines to keep your system running smoothly.

Enjoy your smart water management journey! 💧💡

The WiFi Smart Water Pump Controller S1 is an experimental device designed to operate with AC power (120V or 220V). It is not a toy and should only be handled by individuals with proper electrical knowledge and training.

1. Electrical Safety: Installation and testing of this device should only be performed by a qualified electrician or someone familiar with electrical safety protocols. Mishandling AC connections can result in serious injury, electrical hazards, or damage to the device.
2. Compliance with Standards: Ensure that all electrical connections comply with local safety regulations and standards applicable in your region. Always prioritize safety when working with high-voltage systems.
3. Risk of Injury: Always disconnect the power supply before making any adjustments to the device. Never attempt to install or service the controller without proper tools and protective equipment.

Disclaimer:

By following this guide, you acknowledge that you are responsible for ensuring the safe and proper use of the WiFi Smart Water Pump Controller S1. This project involves working with potentially hazardous electrical components, and you assume all risks associated with its construction and operation of this experimental device.

If you are unsure about any step in the process, consult a licensed electrician or professional to ensure safe and correct installation. Your safety and the reliability of the system depend on proper handling, installation, and adherence to all applicable laws and regulations.