PiTime Pool Timer

thingiverse

I designed a new pool controller with my dad to control our pool pump using a Raspberry Pi. This enabled us to control it remotely from any device, which was previously not possible since our old timer had broken twice in just three months and we'd lost $120 on replacements. We decided to replace the timer with a Raspberry Pi microcontroller instead, allowing us or anyone else to easily turn on/off the pump without repeatedly accessing the service box at inconvenient times. We also realized that using the Raspberry Pi was more cost-effective than purchasing new timers: for $45 (the Pi), $18 (solid-state relays), and another $25 for miscellaneous parts, we got a system with more features than the original two timers. My dad wrote the program to run on the Raspberry Pi, which controlled our pool pump, waterfall, pool lights, as well as provided real-time readings of the pool temperature, solar temperature, and outside air temperature. Meanwhile, I took care of designing and 3D printing a case for the Raspberry Pi, solid-state relays, and temperature sensors inside the service box, complete with mounts to secure them. With this new setup, we can easily control our pool from our smartphones, enjoying enhanced functionality at a fraction of the original cost. Note: For further instructions on how I designed and 3D printed the case for the Raspberry Pi and solid-state relays: - The PLA used was strong but could have been replaced with ABS for greater durability. - It's recommended to use ABS for temperature sensor holders due to its resistance to weathering.