My first step in automating our Spec V aquarium was to add a Leviton timer to control the light on/off cycles. It worked well, but I started to wish for something easier to adjust / program. Also, I wanted a way to easily turn off and on the pump and foresaw a future need to control a CO2 solenoid. An aquarium automation system (like the Neptune Apex Jr.) would have worked, but a solution more in line with our budget and needs turned out to be Smart Plugs.
Budget Aquarium Automation Using Smart Plugs
or the 
. The final bulid is used to controll temperature, measured from a probe, by way of turning on/off plugged appliances (for heating or cooling). I know those who brew their own beer use them 
