The Water Level/Detection Sensor is a reliable and versatile module specifically designed to detect and measure the presence or height of water in containers, tanks, and natural environments. Unlike mechanical float switches, this sensor uses a conductive PCB with exposed copper traces that react when they come in contact with water. As soon as moisture bridges the conductive paths, the resistance changes and creates an analog output signal that reflects the water level. Its lightweight design, compact size, and compatibility with popular development platforms such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and ESP32 make it one of the most popular modules for water-related projects.
This sensor is widely used in DIY automation, smart farming, aquariums, and industrial liquid monitoring systems. Thanks to its simple structure and low cost, it is an excellent choice for students, hobbyists, and engineers who want to create efficient liquid detection systems without complex hardware.
How It Works
The module consists of a small printed circuit board (PCB) with multiple parallel conductive lines. When the board comes into contact with water or another conductive liquid, the water closes the circuit between the traces. The higher the water level on the board, the more traces are bridged, and this lowers the resistance accordingly. The sensor then generates an analog voltage signal proportional to the water level, which can be easily read by an analog-to-digital converter on a microcontroller.
This analog reading can be used to trigger alarms, control water pumps, log environmental data, or send real-time notifications in smart monitoring systems. While it is best suited for clean water and low-conductivity liquids, it can still detect moisture in many types of solutions, provided they are non-corrosive.
Key Features
Simple, low-cost water level sensing solution
Analog output proportional to water level
Compact and lightweight PCB design
Compatible with Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and other controllers
Fast response time and stable performance
Low power consumption, ideal for battery-operated devices
Suitable for academic projects, prototyping, and automation systems
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating Voltage | 3.3V – 5V DC |
| Output Signal | Analog |
| Detection Principle | Conductivity between PCB traces |
| Sensor Dimensions | Approx. 65 mm × 20 mm |
| Power Consumption | Very low |
| Compatibility | Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP32 |
Pin Configuration
| Pin Label | Description |
|---|---|
| VCC | Power supply (3.3–5V) – |
| GND | Ground |
| A0 | Analog output signal |
Applications
Water tank level monitoring and automatic refilling systems
Smart irrigation solutions for agriculture and gardening
Leak detection in basements, roofs, and pipelines
Environmental monitoring for rainfall and soil moisture
Aquarium water level maintenance
Industrial process control for liquid storage and handling
