External tank level sending units

[SV Demeter]

Would like to add a tank level gauge to my holding tank which is plastic but do not wish to cut holes in the tank. I have seen these foil like stick on sensors for monitoring the tank levels. What has been the experience with these? Do they work well? Last long? Come unglued often?

Thanks

[s/v Jedi]

Originally Posted by SV Demeter

Would like to add a tank level gauge to my holding tank which is plastic but do not wish to cut holes in the tank. I have seen these foil like stick on sensors for monitoring the tank levels. What has been the experience with these? Do they work well? Last long? Come unglued often?

Thanks

They work so-so… I have them in our motorhome. The best option is an ultrasonic sensor like from Maretron but you need an NMEA2000 network to connect these to. They also need an opening which may or may not be available depending on the tank used.

[SV Demeter]

Thanks Jedi. Right now I have easy access to part of the tank so I shine a flashlight at it to see when it's close to full. Have limited N2K on the boat now just raymarine pilot is on.

What are the problems with the SCAD monitors? In accurate readings or do the foils come unstuck?

[colemj]

We have two SCAD monitors and the foil has not come unstuck. One of our tanks is short in height and long in length (rectangle laying on long side). For this tank, the SCAD monitor is not very accurate from 0-25% when filling, and from 100-75% when emptying. Strangely, it is accurate in the 75-100% when filling. But since it is a holding tank like yours, we are not concerned about accurately knowing the first 25% when filling or the last 25% when emptying.

The other holding tank is the same size, only mounted on the end so it is a tall tank. The SCAD is accurate on that one.

Mark

[SV Demeter]

Thanks Mark. You in the Caribbean these days? We decided to stay and I'm working in the BVI now.

My tank is a straightforward rectangle. About 30" tall, 12" wide, and 30" long so I think it might be a good candidate for the scad sensors. Since its a holding tank I'm not critical about precise accuracy just want to get an idea how full.

Thanks again guys.