System Considerations

Proper irrigation system design and operation assures optimum performance of the Flow-Clik in monitoring for potential high flow conditions. It is important to understand that the Flow-Clik is primarily designed to shut off the irrigation system in the event of a catastrophic system failure such as a main line or lateral line break. However, depending upon the design of the irrigation system, the Flow-Clik can offer increased protection when components such as sprays or rotors are damaged or removed due to vandalism. The following may be helpful in making your Flow-Clik System operate at its optimum level.

Proper Irrigation System Design

Generally, the Flow-Clik is designed to shut off the irrigation system when a high flow condition is identified. A high flow occurs when the actual flow rate through the system exceeds the “learned” flow of the highest flow zone. If a wide variation in flow rates exist between the highest flow zone and the lowest flow zone, the Flow-Clik may not sense an over flow condition if damage occurs within the low flow zone(s). For example, if an irrigation system has a rotor zone that operates at 18.9 GPM, and a drip zone that flows at 5 GPM; any damage to the drip zone components may not result in high enough flow rate for the Flow-Clik to sense an over flow condition.

The more balanced the irrigation system is designed, the more protection will be provided by the Flow-Clik. Zones should be designed so that they operate at similar flow rates.

Note: To assure proper operation, the flow for the highest flow zone should not exceed 75% of the maximum system flow.

Mainline Pressure Fluctuation

Some water sources may have varying pressure depending upon the demand for water upstream of the point of connection. During times of heavy demand, system pressure through the mainline may drop. A decrease in mainline pressure will result in a decrease in flow rates throughout the system. If the Flow-Clik calibration procedure takes place during a period of time which pressure is at its lowest point, an increase in pressure at the point of connection may result in system flow rates that exceed the calibrated “high flow”. As a result, the Flow-Clik may shut the system down prematurely even though the system is functioning normally.

Note: If pressure fluctuations at the point of connection in excess of 10 psi are expected, it is recommended that a pressure regulator be installed on the mainline or at the master valve.

Proper System Maintenance and Operation

It is important that your irrigation system be maintained and is functioning properly for optimum performance. Check your irrigation system for any broken components or leaks also, make sure that all sprinklers are operating within the pressure ranges recommended by the manufacturer.