FAQ for the AWS?

[EarthBoxAdmin]

Disclaimer: This post was originally posted by Full Member, TNTiger. This user is located in SE Tennessee - Zone 7a. This was originally posted on March 10, 2014.

I just bought one (thanks to the one day sale) and I want to be sure that I don't make any rookie mistakes. Do I need anything other than what is in the box? Are there tricks or tips for initial set-up? I bought the 6 box system. I've got a few weeks before I install everything so I've got plenty of time to get any extras you all recommend.

ETA: I've looked through the forum and haven't found a similar thread so please forgive me if I just missed it!

Thanks!

[EarthBoxAdmin]

Disclaimer: This post was originally posted by Full Member, TNTiger. This user is located in SE Tennessee - Zone 7a. This was originally posted on March 13, 2014.


Can you explain why I need a filter in this set-up? (I'm not challenging you . . . just trying to get my head around this for once and for all!). And if I need a filter, I need one that can withstand static pressure correct? I think that's where I got to the second pressure regulator concept.

I think part of my problem with this set-up is the need for the initial hose and splitter. The faucet is under our deck and the space between the deck and the ground at that point is about 4ft so it's not easily accessible. We've used a hose and splitter since we've been in this house but we've been through numerous splitters. Surprisingly the hose has held up but we've been through a bunch of splitters over the years.

Thanks for your help with this!

[EarthBoxAdmin]

Disclaimer: This post was originally posted by Hero Member, Donald1800. This user is located in Fontana, CA Zone 8. This was originally posted on March 13, 2014.

The reason some folks use an initial regulator somewhere before the garden hose is to reduce the high line pressure (in some cases 90 psi +) stress on the hose that can, at some future time (usually when you are not in the garden) rupture, flooding your yard and costing you hundreds of dollars in water consumption.  It is a sound  and wise practice.  I personally would choose something around 35 - 40 psi static to allow for pressure loss due to water flow resistance in your system to your final EB or after market 12 - 20 psi regulator.  Your water filter should be 150 to 200 mesh to remove sediment and precipitated mineral that can clog/plug the ultra small valve orifices.

[EarthBoxAdmin]

Disclaimer: This post was originally posted by Hero Member, movrshakr. this user is located in Zone 10a - near Cape Canaveral. This was originally posted on March 13,
2014.

What Donald said.

Thinking about his points, reducing the pressure on the transport lines would be  an excellent move, but be sure to study the specs on the final regulator regarding required input pressure, and as Donald mentions, consider the line pressure drop--which may be small due to the low flow rate.

As for filter, it simply reduces problems with the AWS orifices--they are very sensitive to even small particulates clogging them.  Yes, look for one OK with the static pressure--or find a regulator that regulates the pressure down even at no flow.  They are rare and cost more than ones which do NOT lower the pressure in no-flow state.  My guess is that best move would be a filter that can handle the input pressure.

This has been discussed in other threads in the forums, so you should be able to locate it--may take some reading time though.

[EarthBoxAdmin]

Disclaimer: This post was originally posted by Full Member, TNTiger. This user is located in SE Tennessee - Zone 7a. This was originally posted on March 13, 2014.


Whew! I have a headache and now I remember why I didn't do my own irrigation system in the garden last year Smiley

I've read dozens of thread on this and I finally called DripWorks. Here is what I think I'm going to have when all is done:

Spigot-->filter (155 Mesh, rated for Constant Pressure)-->40 psi static regulator(rated for Constant Pressure)-->Hose-->Splitter-->Hose-->EB regulator

I didn't mention all the little M/M, M/F, and F/F connectors and yards of teflon tape that are needed to arrange all of this BUT . . . once it is done I think I'll feel more confident that my hoses aren't going to blow out.

I'm still going to be a little concerned about the hose running to the EB Regulator because it is going to be sitting on concrete in direct sunlight. I'm going to have to think about ways to shield it from the sun if possible without creating too much obstruction. I guess that's my next research project.

[shrinkrap]

Is there a maximum  number of boxes I can have on a l think I have 14 boxes with irrigators so far, and want to add two more. It might make more sense to start a new line so one problem does t become 16 problems.