Hydros Start Aquarium Controller - Hydros
Hydros Start Aquarium Controller - Hydros
The HYDROS Start is the perfect entry point into aquarium automation an all-in-one controller that makes managing your tank simple, reliable, and future-ready. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand into a larger system, the Start gives you everything you need to monitor and control your aquarium with confidence.
This compact controller includes temperature monitoring and four controllable AC outlets, giving you safe, reliable control over essentials like heaters, pumps, and lighting. Beyond the basics, it can be expanded with HYDROS accessories to handle leak detection, water level monitoring, and even small 12V equipment like ATO pumps, solenoids, and cabinet fans. Everything runs through the HYDROS App, so you can check in and make changes from anywhere in the world.
Best of all, HYDROS controllers are engineered, assembled, and supported in the USA giving you peace of mind that your investment is backed by quality and service.
Key Features
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Simple Setup, No Coding: If you can use a smartphone, you can use HYDROS. Schedule devices, set rules, and create alerts with just a few taps.
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All-in-One Control: Includes a temperature sensor, 4 controllable AC outlets (8A per outlet / 14A total), 2 drive ports (12V), and 4 sense ports for sensors.
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Expandable System: Add HYDROS accessories for leak detection, flow monitoring, water levels, TDS from your RODI, and more.
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Smart Alerts: Get notifications for system health, pump failures, leaks, or out-of-range parameters.
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WiFi Control: Manage up to 8 WiFi devices like HYDROS Smart Outlets and Power Strips.
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Built-In Redundancy: Command Bus ports allow for fail-safe communication and power sharing across multiple HYDROS units.
Specifications
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Dimensions: 9.5” x 4.75” x 3.25”
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Power Cord: 6 ft
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Max AC Relay Load: 8A each / 14A total
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Drive Ports: 1.5A each / 3A total
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Included: HYDROS Start Controller + Temperature Sensor
Why Choose HYDROS Start?
The Start is designed to grow with your aquarium. Use it as a standalone controller for simple setups, or expand into a full HYDROS ecosystem with dosing, leak protection, and advanced automation as your system evolves. It’s the easiest way to bring smart control, peace of mind, and reliability to your reef tank, freshwater aquarium, or even pond, all without the complexity of traditional controllers.
HYDROS Start Aquarium Controller Guide
HYDROS Start is designed as an approachable entry point into aquarium automation. It combines four controllable AC outlets, four Sense Ports, two 12V Drive Ports and an included temperature sensor, all managed through the HYDROS app.
What HYDROS Start can automate
- Monitor aquarium temperature with the included sensor.
- Switch compatible AC equipment through four controllable outlets.
- Connect compatible water-level, leak and other HYDROS sensors through Sense Ports.
- Power compatible 12V accessories through two Drive Ports.
A practical first setup
- Install the temperature sensor where it remains submerged and away from direct heater output.
- Connect and label one controlled device at a time.
- Set safe temperature alerts before enabling automatic heater control.
- Test every output, alert and fallback behavior while observing the aquarium.
HYDROS Start vs Launch and X4
Choose Start for core temperature, outlet and accessory control in a compact package. Choose HYDROS Launch when the system needs more Drive Ports plus included pH monitoring. Choose the X4 Pro Pack when an XP8 energy bar and flexible probe monitoring better match the build. Use the complete guide to compare HYDROS controllers.
HYDROS Start FAQs
Can HYDROS Start work as a standalone controller?
Yes. It can run its connected sensors, outlets and compatible accessories on its own, or join other HYDROS controllers as the system grows.
What is included with HYDROS Start?
The system includes the Start controller and temperature sensor along with the package components listed above. Additional probes, sensors and controlled accessories are sold separately.
What can the Sense and Drive Ports control?
Sense Ports receive data from compatible HYDROS sensors. Drive Ports provide switched 12V power for compatible HYDROS accessories. Match every accessory to its required port before ordering.
Browse aquarium controllers or all HYDROS products.
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