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Deployment & Maintenance

This page covers the practical steps to install, test and maintain the smart auto-watering pot in real use.

Pre-deployment checklist​

Before putting the system on a live plant, confirm:

  • The moisture sensor is wired correctly and returns sensible ADC
    Analog-to-Digital Converter - converts analog voltages into digital values that microcontrollers can read.
     values.
  • The valve or pump turns on and off as expected under firmware control.
  • All grounds are connected together.
  • The tank and hose routing have been leak-tested.
  • You have set DRY_THRESHOLD and WET_THRESHOLD according to your soil.

Installation steps​

  1. Place the tank on the pot, or on a stable surface next to it.
  2. Insert the moisture sensor into the soil, near the root zone, at a consistent depth. Avoid pushing it against the pot wall.
  3. Mount the Electronics (Enclosure) far from the tank so a leak cannot reach it.
  4. Plug in the USB Wall Power Supply
    A wall-powered USB charger that provides stable power for embedded projects. Prefer this over powering motors or valves directly from a computer USB port.
     (5 V, ≥ 2 A) to power the MT3608
    DC-DC boost converter that steps up voltages, for example from 5V to 12V, with adjustable output.
    MT3608 Step-Up Module    .
  5. Watch the system through the first watering cycles and check that:
    • The LED
      A light-emitting diode used frequently as a status indicator in electronic devices.
       colors or state match the expected states.
    • The soil is not being over-watered.
    • There are no leaks or drips from fittings or printed parts.

Maintenance​

Regular maintenance keeps the system reliable:

FrequencyAction
WeeklyCheck tank water level and top up as needed.
MonthlyVisually inspect printed parts for cracks, hose connections for looseness, and the valve/pump for unusual noise.
3-6 monthsRe-run the calibration procedure if soil composition or potting mix changes, or if behaviour drifts.

Behaviour and fail-safes​

  • On power loss, the valve or pump is off by default.
  • The firmware limits each watering event to a short duration (WATER_TIME_SEC) to reduce the chance of flooding.
  • If you notice the system watering too often or not enough, adjust thresholds and intervals rather than trying to compensate by changing tank size.