I'm working on creating a drip/sprinkler irrigation system for my reptile enclosure that responds to relative humidity levels. I have a Herpstat 2 humidistat, which will activate the pump when the humidity drops below a certain threshold. However, I also need a water pump that includes an auto-off timer. For this system, I want it to run for about two minutes and then off for ten minutes to let the water evaporate, even if the power gets shut off and then turned back on. I've seen many misting systems that require manual activation or have fixed timing, which isn't ideal for me. Ideally, I want a transfer or submersible pump that self-cycles and can autonomously adjust based on the humidity readings without oversaturating my enclosure. I'd like to avoid complex solutions involving additional tech like Raspberry Pi or Arduino, as I've already invested in the humidistat. Any recommendations for a suitable pump or alternative solutions?
3 Answers
What if you configure an overflow system where excess water could drain out? It might help to regulate the moisture levels effectively.
You might want to look into water fountain pumps since they automatically operate when there's water in the dish. However, most timers are set for intervals longer than 15 minutes, which might not meet your needs. You could always keep a pump on and monitor it manually for shorter cycles.
Good thought! I’d worry about the pump pushing too much water before the humidity adjusts, though. I need to find the right balance.
A submersible pump could work well for your project. You can pair it with a smart plug and have your RH sensor trigger the routine. Set the pump to cycle on for a set time whenever the humidity dips, which should help avoid oversaturation. Just make sure to choose a pump suitable for this kind of application—maybe something designed for hydroponics. It could give you the control you need!
That sounds like a solid plan! I already have the humidity sensor set up, so I could work with that. I'll check out hydroponics pumps to see what fits my needs.
An overflow would be tricky since I want to spray down the substrate, not flood it. The evaporation from the heat panel is the main concern, plus my reptile is sensitive to misting. I’ll think about running hoses under the substrate instead!