Pool level regulator with skimmer - RNS-1 - CCEI

CCEI RNS-1 Automatic Level Regulator for Skimmer Pools: Smart Filling with Float

The CCEI RNS-1 level regulator unit is a standalone electronic system that automatically maintains the optimal water level in skimmer pools. It consists of a 230V IP55 control unit (220 × 200 × 150 mm), a MPF-2 mini-float with 10 meters of cable that is fixed in the skimmer, a 24V solenoid valve controlled by the unit, and a protective strainer filter (maximum pressure 4 bars) to be installed on the water inlet. The principle is simple: when the water level in the skimmer drops and the float descends, the unit automatically opens the filling solenoid valve. As soon as the level rises and the float rises with it, the unit closes the solenoid valve. The system incorporates a 10-second anti-ripple delay, a low water safety feature that blocks the filtration pump if the level remains too low, and a leak protection that cuts off filling after 3 continuous hours.

This regulator is specifically designed for skimmer pools (as opposed to overflow pools, which require the RNS-2 model with a level probe). It is also suitable for pools equipped with an automatic cover, where the water level must remain stable for the slatted cover to function correctly.

Why install an automatic level regulator in a skimmer pool?

The water level in a pool is never truly stable. Evaporation causes the level to drop several centimeters per week in summer—up to 1 cm per day during hot weather or sustained wind. Splashing and bathers leaving the pool also remove water from the basin (approximately 50 to 100 liters per bather per day in a family pool). Backwashing (back-flushing the filter) consumes 200 to 500 liters of water with each operation. Conversely, rain raises the level, sometimes by several centimeters during violent thunderstorms.

A water level that is too low causes the skimmer to draw air: water no longer enters the skimmer correctly, and the filtration pump draws in air instead. This causes the pump to cavitate (a characteristic banging noise), reduces its filtration flow rate, and can damage mechanical seals and the impeller in the medium term. In the long term, a pump that cavitates regularly will see its lifespan reduced by half.

A water level that is too high reduces skimming efficiency: surface water, which concentrates the majority of dirt (leaves, insects, sunscreens, pollen), is no longer effectively drawn into the skimmer. The basin remains cloudy and dirty despite hours of filtration. With an automatic submerged slatted cover, a level that is too high or too low prevents the winding mechanism from functioning properly.

The RNS-1 regulator solves all these problems by maintaining a constant water level, at the optimal height you define by positioning the float in the skimmer. You no longer have to monitor the water level or manually open the filling tap: the system manages everything automatically, 24 hours a day, summer and winter.

System operation: MPF-2 float + controlled solenoid valve

The heart of the RNS-1 system is the MPF-2 mini-float, a small floating box equipped with a waterproof magnetic switch that is fixed in the skimmer at the desired water level. The float is connected to the RNS-1 unit by a 10-meter cable, allowing the unit to be installed in the plant room even if it is far from the skimmer.

The operation is as follows: when the water level is correct, the float floats on the surface and its magnetic switch is in the "closed" position. The RNS-1 unit detects this signal and keeps the filling solenoid valve closed. When the water level drops (evaporation, splashing, backwashing), the float descends with the level. As soon as it reaches the lower position defined by its mounting bracket, its magnetic switch switches to the "open" position, which sends a signal to the RNS-1 unit.

The unit then waits 10 seconds (anti-ripple delay) to check that the level is stable in the low position, and not that the float has simply been shaken by a wave or a bather. If after 10 seconds the float is still in the low position, the unit opens the 24V filling solenoid valve, which allows water from the mains to flow into the pool. Water usually flows through a dedicated inlet in the skimmer or directly into the basin via a return jet.

The water gradually fills the pool, the level rises, and the float rises with it. As soon as the float reaches its high position, its magnetic switch returns to the "closed" position. The RNS-1 unit again waits 10 seconds to confirm that the level is stable, then closes the solenoid valve. Filling stops. This cycle repeats automatically each time the level drops below the defined threshold.

10-second anti-ripple delay: insensitive to waves and turbulence

The 10-second delay is an essential function of the RNS-1, which prevents untimely opening/closing of the solenoid valve. Without this delay, every wave, every passage of a bather, every ripple caused by the wind would trigger the float and open the solenoid valve for a few seconds, then close it, then reopen it, and so on. This rapid cycle would prematurely wear out the solenoid valve and waste water.

With the 10-second delay, the RNS-1 unit only opens the solenoid valve if the float remains in the low position for at least 10 consecutive seconds, which proves that the water level has actually dropped and that it is not just a simple ripple. Similarly, the solenoid valve only closes if the float remains in the high position for 10 seconds, confirming that the level has risen and stabilized.

This delay makes the system totally insensitive to surface disturbances, even in a busy pool or one exposed to wind. The float can be shaken by waves without triggering unwanted filling.

Anti-leak safety: automatic cut-off after 3 hours of continuous filling

The RNS-1 unit incorporates a very important overflow and leak prevention safety feature. If filling continues for more than 3 hours without the float rising to the high position, the unit assumes there is a problem (leak in the pool, solenoid valve stuck open, float stuck in the low position, blocked water inlet pipe) and automatically switches to fault mode.

In fault mode, the red "Fault" LED on the unit lights up, the solenoid valve closes immediately to stop filling, and the "pump inhibit" output also closes to prevent the filtration pump from operating (protection against lack of water if the pool has emptied). The system remains blocked in this state until you press the "system stop" button to reset the fault.

This safety feature prevents two catastrophic scenarios: (1) continuous overflow of the pool for hours or days if you are away (wasting thousands of liters of water and risking flooding the plant room or garden), and (2) destruction of the filtration pump if the pool empties completely due to a leak and the pump continues to run dry.

A 3-hour filling represents a considerable volume of water: at a typical flow rate of 300 to 500 liters/hour (flow rate of a 3/4" or 1" solenoid valve), this represents 900 to 1,500 liters. If your pool has not returned to the correct level after receiving 1,000 liters of water, there must be a major problem (liner leak, open valve, punctured pipe, etc.) that requires your intervention.

"Pump inhibit" output: protecting the filtration pump from lack of water

The RNS-1 unit has a relay output called "pump inhibit", which can be connected to the filtration pump control (via a contactor or filtration unit). When the water level is correct, this output is closed (relay activated), which authorizes pump operation. When the water level drops too low and filling fails to restore it, or when the system enters fault mode, the "pump inhibit" output opens (relay deactivated), which cuts off power to the filtration pump.

This function protects the pump against dry running (severe cavitation) which would quickly destroy the mechanical seals and the impeller. It is particularly useful if you are away for several days and a significant leak occurs: the RNS-1 regulator will try to compensate for the leak for 3 hours, then will go into fault and cut off the pump, thus preventing the pump from running dry for days and being completely destroyed.

Connecting the "pump inhibit" output is optional but highly recommended for unsupervised pools (secondary residences, prolonged absences).

RNS-1 kit contents: complete system ready for installation

The RNS-1 regulator is supplied as a complete kit with all the necessary elements for installation:

1 RNS-1 unit: 230V AC electronic box, dimensions 220 × 200 × 150 mm, IP55 waterproof rating (protected against water jets from all directions), equipped with status LEDs (filling, fault), system stop button, and connection terminals for the float, solenoid valve, and "pump inhibit" output.

1 MPF-2 mini-float with 10 meters of cable: Compact float with waterproof magnetic switch, pre-installed 10-meter cable, supplied with its adjustable mounting bracket for installation in the skimmer. The bracket screws or glues to the inner wall of the skimmer.

1 24V solenoid valve: Normally closed solenoid valve, 3/4" (20/27) or 1" thread depending on version, controlled by low voltage 24V by the RNS-1 unit. The low voltage 24V is safer than 230V solenoid valves in case of accidental contact with water.

1 strainer filter: Removable cartridge filter to be installed on the water inlet before the solenoid valve, to retain impurities from the mains (sand, limescale, rust) that could block the solenoid valve. Maximum supported pressure: 4 bars. Cleaning recommended every 6 to 12 months.

1 installation and user manual: Complete guide with wiring diagrams, float assembly instructions, and troubleshooting procedures in case of malfunction.

All equipment is CCEI brand, ensuring perfect compatibility and maximum durability. You will also need: fixing clamps for the solenoid valve and the strainer filter, Teflon tape or thread seal for threaded connections, and possibly a PVC or polyethylene water inlet pipe to connect the solenoid valve to the water supply and the pool filling point.

Installation of the solenoid valve and strainer filter: where and how?

The solenoid valve and strainer filter are connected to the pool's filling water inlet. Two configurations are possible depending on your installation:

Configuration 1 — Dedicated water inlet for filling: If your pool has a dedicated water inlet for filling (a pipe waiting in the plant room or at the edge of the pool), install the strainer filter then the solenoid valve in series on this inlet. The filter is placed upstream (mains side), the solenoid valve downstream (pool side). The outlet pipe of the solenoid valve connects to the filling inlet which generally opens into the skimmer or directly into the basin via a wall jet.

Configuration 2 — Tapping into an outdoor tap or general network: If your pool does not have a dedicated inlet, you must create a tap on the outdoor water network (garden tap, main manifold in the plant room). Install a T-fitting, then the strainer filter, then the solenoid valve, then a pipe that brings the water to the skimmer or the basin. Caution: check that the network pressure does not exceed 4 bars (strainer filter limit). If your network exceeds 4 bars, install a pressure reducer upstream of the filter.

The solenoid valve must be installed in a horizontal position (valve body horizontal, coil upwards) for optimal operation. It must be protected from frost in winter: if your plant room is not frost-free, plan for drainage or disassembly of the solenoid valve before winter to prevent it from freezing and cracking. Wiring between the solenoid valve and the RNS-1 unit is done with low voltage 24V, using standard 2 × 0.75 mm² or 2 × 1 mm² electrical cable.

Installation of the MPF-2 float in the skimmer: height adjustment

The MPF-2 mini-float is fixed inside the skimmer, usually on the wall opposite the suction opening (to avoid being sucked in by the water flow). The supplied mounting bracket screws or glues (epoxy resin adhesive, Sikaflex) onto the skimmer wall, at the desired height for the optimal water level.

The ideal mounting height is generally midway up the rectangular skimmer opening, approximately 10 to 15 cm below the top edge of the basin. At this height, the skimmer effectively draws in surface impurities without taking in air. You can adjust this height according to your preferences: higher if you want a maximum water level, lower if you fear overflows during rain.

Once the bracket is fixed, clip or screw the MPF-2 float onto its bracket. The float must be able to move up and down freely for a few centimeters (float travel), without rubbing against the skimmer walls. Pass the 10-meter cable from the float through the skimmer's technical conduit or through a dedicated cable gland, to the plant room where the RNS-1 unit is located. Connect the cable to the unit's terminal block, observing the polarity indicated in the manual.

IP55 enclosure 220 × 200 × 150 mm: wall mounting in the plant room

The RNS-1 unit is fixed to the wall of the plant room, at a convenient height for easy access to the buttons and status LEDs. Its IP55 protection rating means it is protected against dust and against water jets from all directions (pressure washing, condensation, splashes), which makes it suitable for the humid environment of a pool plant room.

The unit has status LEDs visible through the cover: green "power" LED, orange "filling in progress" LED, red "fault" LED. These LEDs allow you to monitor the system's operation at a glance. A "system stop" button on the front allows you to reset a fault after intervention (repairing a leak, unblocking the float, replacing the solenoid valve, etc.).

Electrical connections are made via screw terminals inside the unit: 230V AC terminal block for mains power, low voltage terminal block for the float cable, 24V terminal block for the solenoid valve, and "pump inhibit" relay output for optional connection to the filtration pump control. All connections are clearly identified and described in the supplied manual.

Use cases where the RNS-1 is particularly recommended

While any pool owner can benefit from an automatic level regulator, the RNS-1 is particularly recommended in the following situations:

(Secondary residences or prolonged absences: If you are not present to monitor the water level weekly, the RNS-1 ensures that the level remains optimal in your absence. This prevents the pump from cavitating and being damaged, and ensures efficient filtration even when no one is there to open the filling tap.

Pools with high evaporation: In very sunny, windy regions, or with a large basin surface, evaporation can reach 5 to 10 mm per day in summer, or 50 to 100 liters per day for a 10 × 5 meter pool. Without a regulator, the pool would have to be filled manually every 2 or 3 days, which quickly becomes cumbersome.

Pools with automatic submerged slatted covers: Automatic covers require a stable water level to function correctly. If the level drops, the cover rail is out of the water and the mechanism jams. The RNS-1 maintains a constant level, ensuring the proper functioning of the cover.

Pools equipped with level-sensitive treatment systems: Salt chlorinators and pH regulators work best when the filtration flow rate is stable. A water level that is too low reduces the flow rate (pump cavitation), which disrupts the operation of these devices and degrades water quality. The RNS-1 ensures a constant flow rate and therefore optimal treatment.

Pools with variable speed filtration pumps: These pumps change their rotation speed (and therefore their flow rate) according to needs. At low speed (energy-saving mode), they are more sensitive to air intake and lack of water. A stable level guaranteed by the RNS-1 allows you to fully enjoy the energy savings of variable speed pumps without risking cavitation.

CCEI level regulator range: RNS-1, RNS-2, NIVA 3 and NIVA 5

CCEI offers four models of level regulators to suit all types of pools and budgets: the RNS-1 with float (this product), the RNS-2 with electronic probe, the NIVA 3 and the NIVA 5. All four perform the same function (automatic water level maintenance), but differ in their detection technology, functionalities and level of sophistication:

RNS-1 (MPF-2 float): High-end electronic system with separate control box and mechanical detection via magnetic switch float. Advantages: simple installation in the skimmer, 10-second anti-splash delay, 3-hour anti-leak safety with automatic cut-off, "pump off" output to protect the filtration pump from dry running, complete kit with 24V low-voltage solenoid valve and strainer filter included, diagnostic LED. Disadvantage: the float can be obstructed by leaves or debris accumulated in the skimmer and requires occasional cleaning.

RNS-2 (stainless steel probe): High-end electronic system with separate control box and detection via an immersed capacitive or resistive stainless steel probe. Advantages: no moving mechanical parts, impervious to debris, ideal for overflow pool buffer tanks, chlorine/bromine/salt resistant stainless steel probe, features identical to RNS-1 (delay, 3-hour safety, pump off output). Disadvantage: more expensive than RNS-1, requires an appropriate mounting location for the probe (usually buffer tank or quiet skimmer area).

NIVA 3: Economical all-in-one solution with integrated solenoid valve directly in the casing and a float. Identical principle to RNS-1 (float detection) but in an ultra-compact and simplified format. Ideal for small pools and basic installations where the filling point is close to the skimmer. Differs from RNS-1 by the absence of a separate electronic box, advanced functions (no "pump off" output, no diagnostic LED), and reduced delay. Economical but less secure.

NIVA 5: An intermediate solution between NIVA 3 and RNS-1, combining a compact format with additional features compared to NIVA 3. Offers a better level of protection and control than NIVA 3 while remaining more affordable than RNS-1. Suitable for medium-sized pools looking for a good compromise between price and features.

For pools with classic skimmers: the RNS-1 with float is the standard high-end choice offering the best balance between reliability, safety, and advanced features. The NIVA 5 is a good price/feature compromise for standard installations. The NIVA 3 will suit small pools or very tight budgets that accept fewer safety features. For overflow pools with a buffer tank: the RNS-2 with probe is generally preferred because it attaches easily to the buffer tank wall and is not affected by overflow waves.

Maintenance of the RNS-1 system: cleaning the float and checking the solenoid valve

The RNS-1 regulator requires minimal maintenance, mainly focused on the float and the strainer filter:

Cleaning the MPF-2 float: Once or twice a season (or more if your skimmer accumulates a lot of debris), remove the float from its support and clean it with clear water to remove leaves, algae, limescale, or biofilm that could impede its free movement. Check that the float moves up and down freely on its support without rubbing.

Cleaning the strainer filter: Every 6 to 12 months, unscrew the transparent bowl of the strainer filter, remove the filter cartridge, clean it with clear water, or replace it if it is very dirty. A clogged filter reduces the filling flow and can prevent the level from rising correctly.

Solenoid valve check: The 24V solenoid valve does not require any particular maintenance, but it is prudent to check once a year that it opens and closes correctly. To do this, force a fill by manually lowering the float in the skimmer: you should hear the solenoid valve open (a slight "click") and water should start flowing into the pool. Raise the float: the solenoid valve should close after 10 seconds.

Winterization: If your technical room is not frost-free, purge the solenoid valve and the strainer filter before winter to prevent them from freezing and cracking. Cut off the power supply to the RNS-1 box during passive winterization (pool not in use and not filtered).

Installation du flotteur MFP-2 

• 1 RNS-1 control box
• 1 MFP-2 float switch with 10m cable
• 1 24V solenoid valve
• 1 screen filter (max pressure 4 bar)
• 1 installation manual

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