The balancing tank collects water that spills over the overflow edge and feeds it back into the filtration circuit. Its water level varies constantly — and without water level control, those variations become operational problems.
Why balancing tank regulation matters
A balancing tank without a regulation system is a liability. Water levels in the tank fluctuate constantly — evaporation, rainfall, bather load, and check valve failures all affect the balance. Without automatic control, the consequences range from pump burnout to pool siphoning. A correctly specified regulation system eliminates these risks and removes the need for manual intervention.
Electric floats
Electric floats are a reliable and cost-effective solution for most private overflow pools. Two floats work in tandem: the first controls the solenoid valve that opens the water supply when the level drops too low; the second monitors the upper level to prevent siphoning at night — a common issue when a check valve fails in the open position.
When the lower float detects insufficient water, the pump stops and the solenoid valve opens to refill the tank. Once the correct level is restored, the valve closes and the pump restarts automatically. This system handles the two most common failure scenarios: water shortage and overnight siphoning.
Regulation sensor boxes
For more demanding projects — larger pools, hotel installations, or any situation where precise control is required — a sensor box offers a more comprehensive solution. Installed in the technical room and connected to the main control panel, it manages between three and seven probes positioned at different levels in the balancing tank.
Each probe corresponds to a specific water level threshold:
- Low safety: stops the pump to prevent cavitation
- Normal operating range: controls the solenoid valve for automatic top-up
- High safety: detects overflow conditions and activates drainage
- Additional probes: manage intermediate levels for finer control
The more probes, the more precisely the system responds to variations. A seven-probe box covers every scenario — from minor evaporation to heavy rainfall — without any manual adjustment.
Choosing the right system
The choice between electric floats and a sensor box depends on three factors: tank volume, occupancy pattern, and the level of automation required.
Electric floats are sufficient for a well-designed private pool where the owner is regularly present. A sensor box becomes the standard specification for larger installations, remote-managed properties, or any project where water conservation and pump protection cannot be left to chance.
In either case, the regulation system must be specified at the hydraulic design stage — not added as an afterthought. Its integration with the pump, solenoid valve, and control panel defines how the entire overflow circuit behaves.
Morana’s advice
The regulation is chosen with the tank.
Floats for a private pool. A sensor box when the pool is large, remote, or a hotel. It is on the hydraulic drawing, not added after.
Frequently asked questions: balancing tank regulation
What is a balancing tank water level controller?
It keeps the water in the tank between two levels. It opens the make-up valve when the level drops, and it stops the pump if the level falls too low. It also stops the pool siphoning into the tank.
What happens if the balancing tank has no regulation?
Three things. The pump runs dry and burns out. A failed check valve lets the pool empty into the tank overnight. In heavy rain, the tank overflows and water is wasted.
Electric floats or a sensor box?
Floats are enough for most private pools. A sensor box, with three to seven probes, is the specification for a large pool, a hotel, or a pool run from a distance.
