Baseline Systems WaterTec S100 - Manual (Page 16)

16 WaterTec S100 Manual Aug06 Rev. 1
Step 4: Continued
• The biSensor is placed in an area that receives far less than average
water. This will cause the system to operate more frequently then
desired. If it is determined that the biSensor is not receiving an average
to slightly below average amount of water check the performance of
all the related system components:
- Check all sprinkler heads affecting the area to ensure they are
functioning properly.
- Check the valve operation to ensure that it is opening completely
and not limiting water flow and that it is shutting off completely.
- Check system and zone pressure – improper pressures can cause
distribution uniformity problems. Refer to the sprinkler head
manufacturer for specifications.
If all system components are functioning properly move the biSensor to a
more appropriate area and then refer to Step 5: Re-running a 24-hour moisture
threshold calibration.
Step 5: Re-running a 24-hour Moisture Threshold Calibration
1) Re-saturate the soil. This may take several applications of water to
ensure the water has penetrated to the level of the biSensor.
2) Compact the soil around and over the biSensor to ensure there are no
air pockets around the biSensor. The biSensor is very durable but some
care should be taken to not destroy the biSensor. Rock or gravel
touching the biSensor directly can also cause a false reading. It may
be necessary to remove any rocks that are in direct contact with the
biSensor.
3) Once you are sure there are no air pockets around the biSensor, take
a soil moisture reading by pushing the “Sensor Update” button. This
value will vary depending on soil type but should read above 20. A
lower reading may mean there are remaining air pockets or rocks
touching the biSensor.
4) Re-check area to ensure the biSensor location is still well saturated.
5) Run the 24-hour moisture threshold calibration: Hold the (+)(-) and
(Bypass) buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. The screen will flash
between “CAL” “24H” and the current moisture reading. The “24H” will
count down on the hour until the calibration is complete. Watering is
paused during this time.
Step 6: Soak Cycles
Soak cycles allow the water to soak into the soil more efficiently, promoting
healthier roots and a better looking site. It also reduces the potential for
puddling and run-off, and allows the water to soak down to the biSensor,
giving more accurate and timely readings. Soak cycles should be extended
for sloped areas and denser soil types. When watering a site, it is important
to allow enough time for water to soak into the ground. Usually soak times
are about 3 times as long as run times. This means that if you run your sprinkler
system for 30 minutes, you allow 90 minutes for the water to completely soak
into the ground. Refer to the manual for your sprinkler timer for the best way
to set up soak cycles.