Temperature Sensors for The Attendant & Attendant Mini

Temperature Sensors

The Attendant family of controllers supports 10k-ohm thermistor-style temperature sensors for monitoring water, air, and solar heating applications. These sensors provide the system with accurate temperature data used for heating control, freeze protection, water-feature logic, and general automation.

Both models provide powered inputs for these sensors:

• The Attendant: Five sensor ports labeled TS1–TS5
• The Attendant Mini: Two sensor ports labeled TS1–TS2

Each input supplies low-voltage 5 VDC and is designed exclusively for compatible thermistor sensors.
Thermistors are non-polarized, so the red and black wires can be landed in either order.

During the setup interview, the system will automatically map the ambient air temperature sensor to TS1 and the water temperature sensor to TS2.

General Wiring & Compatibility

• Only 10k-ohm thermistors should be connected to the temperature ports.
• Avoid running sensor wires in the same conduit as high-voltage conductors.
• Extensions can be made using 18–22 AWG low-voltage cable.
• Ensure all sensors are properly sealed, secured, and protected from water intrusion.
• The Attendant automatically detects the sensor type based on configuration.

Sensor Types & Installation Guidelines

1. Water Temperature Sensor

The water temperature sensor monitors the pool or spa water and is used for heating, cooling, and safe equipment operation.

Placement

Install the sensor in the return plumbing, specifically:

• After the filter
• Before a heater, heat pump, or chiller
• On a straight section of pipe with stable flow

Installation Steps

1. Select a location on the return line.
2. Drill a 3/8″ hole (or the diameter matching the probe).
3. Insert the thermistor so the tip is fully inside the water path.
4. Secure it with the supplied gasket, clamp, and hardware.
5. Route the wiring to the Attendant and connect it to any available TS port.

⚠️ IMPORTANT WARNING

Drill carefully—do not penetrate the opposite side of the pipe. Damage to the pipe may require cutting and replacing the entire section.

2. Ambient (Air) Temperature Sensor

The air sensor measures outdoor temperature and is a critical input for Freeze Protection, pump ramping logic, emergency heating, and environmental control.

Placement

Install the ambient sensor:

• Near The Attendant or Attendant Mini enclosure
• Out of direct sunlight
• In a location with normal airflow
• At least 6 feet away from any artificial heat sources:
  • Heater exhaust vents
  • Gas appliances
  • AC condensers
  • Enclosed electrical boxes

Incorrect placement can cause overheating or false freeze-protect activation.

3. Solar Temperature Sensor

For systems with solar heating, the solar sensor measures the temperature at the collector array to determine when solar heat is available.

Placement

• Install the sensor adjacent to the solar panels themselves.
• Mount it near the water return header for accurate collector temperature.
• Avoid shaded areas, under-panel locations, or surfaces that trap heat artificially.

This ensures reliable solar switching and maximizes heating efficiency.

Best Practices

• Label sensor wiring at the pad for future service.
• Verify sensor readings in the Attendant interface after installation.
• Use silicone grease on gaskets to improve water seals in plumbing-mounted sensors.
• Keep cable runs tidy and secured to avoid vibration or abrasion damage.

Reviewing Temperature Sensor Readings

After installing your sensors, you can quickly verify their operation in the Attendant App interface:

1. Tap the Hamburger Menu ☰ in the top-right corner.
2. Select Maintenance.
3. Tap Device Status.
4. Review the live Temperature Sensor Readings for each sensor.

If a reading appears incorrect, missing, or assigned to the wrong function, verify the wiring and ensure the sensor is connected to the intended TS port. Rewire or relocate as necessary.