OPERATION CHECK TO VERIFY CORRECT WIRING
Turn on one zone of the sprinkler system that is visible while you are in reach
of the sensor. Manually depress the spindle at the top of the sensor until you
hear the switch “click” off. The sprinkler zone should stop instantly. If it does
not, check wiring for correct installation.
ADJUSTMENTS AND OPERATION
The sensor can keep the irrigation system from starting or continuing after
rainfall quantities of ¹⁄
8
", ¼", ½", ¾", or 1". To adjust to the desired quantity of
rainfall, rotate the cap on the switch housing so that the pins are located in the
proper slots (See Figure 4). Do not forcibly twist the cap as this might break the
pins. The time that it takes the sensor to reset for normal sprinkler operation
after the rain has stopped is determined by weather conditions (wind, sunlight,
humidity, etc.). These conditions will determine how fast the hygroscopic discs
dry out, and since the landscape is also experiencing the same conditions, their
respective drying rates will roughly parallel each other. There is an adjustment
capability on the sensor that will slow down the reset rate. By turning the “vent
ring” (See Figure 4) to completely or partially cover the ventilation holes, the
hygroscopic discs will dry more slowly. This adjustment can compensate for an
“overly sunny” installation location or peculiar soil conditions. Experimenting
with the vent rings will best determine the ideal vent setting.
BYPASSING THE SENSOR
Should you desire to bypass the operation of the sensor for any reason
(i.e., turn on your system even though the sensor has shut “off” due to rainfall
or temperature), there is an easy way to do this. Simply go to the sensor and
raise the rain quantity “cap” setting higher, or completely remove it altogether.
This takes the pressure off the switch button, which allows the valve circuit to
close again.
Note: Using the “manual” switch on the controller will not bypass
the sensor.
MAINTENANCE
There is no required maintenance for the unit. The sensor does not have to be
removed or covered for winterizing purposes. All parts are easily replaceable if
they become damaged or lost. The spindle assembly is designed to stay with the
cap. Do not pull them apart. (See Figure 4)
TROUBLESHOOTING
Follow these simple checks before replacing your sensor:
System will not come on at all:
A. Check to see that the sensor discs are dry and the switch “clicks” on and off
freely by pressing the top of the spindle.
B. Look for breaks in the wire leading to the sensor and check all wire junctions.
C. If the sensor is dry, the temperature is above 37°F ±2° (3°C ±1°) and the wire
leading to it is good, check the sensor switch by nicking the insulation of the
two “outer” wires near the unit to expose copper. Turn one sprinkler zone on,
and apply a “jumper wire” across the two exposed wires. If the sprinkler now
comes on, the switch is bad. Wrap all nicked wires with electrical tape.
D. The sensor is wired to function with most controllers. If you are unable to
make the sensor work with the suggestions above you may have a unique
controller. In this case you will need to cut the copper colored wire and attach
it to the blue lead wire provided.
System will not shut off even after heavy rainfall:
A. Check wiring for correct installation. (See “Operation Check to Verify
Correct Wiring”.)
B. Check sensitivity setting on sensor, and move the cap to a more
sensitive setting. The sensor is an accurate rain gauge and can be
verified by setting up a “tube” type rain gauge in the same vicinity and
making periodic readings.
C. Check for obstructions to rainfall such as overhangs, trees or walls.
