Toro TWRS-I User manual

Wireless Rain Sensor Series
Rain Sensor, Model TWRS-I and
Rain/Freeze Sensor, Model TWRFS-I
User’s Guide
English Español Français
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Introduction
The Toro wireless rain sensor system, model TWRS-I for rain sensing and TWRFS-I for rain and
freeze sensing, is a powerful, water conservation and management tool that connects your automatic
irrigation system to actual environmental factors vital to the health and maintenance of your
landscape. Without sensor input, the controller simply turns the sprinklers on and off based on a
routine irrigation schedule. Linking controller operation to real-time rain and/or freeze conditions
eliminates unnecessary irrigation and dramatically reduces water consumption–all without
compromising the health and beauty of your landscape. And–it’s wireless. No cable to run or holes to
drill. Simple installation and setup delivers reliable, intelligent sensor control in a matter of minutes.
Contents Page
Getting Started. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Receiver Module Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Installing the Receiver Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Initial Sensor System Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Sensor Module Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Rain Sensor Site Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Installing the Sensor Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Freeze Sensor Site Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Set Centigrade or Fahrenheit Scale. . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Set Temperature Activation Threshold . . . . . . . . . . 14
Water Conservation Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Smart Bypass Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page
Water Delay Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Signal Strength Display Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Battery Strength Display Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Dry Out Feature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Fail Safe Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Turn Receiver Module Off and On. . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Set or Restore the Sensor Address Code . . . . . . . . 20
Sensor Module Battery Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
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English
The wireless sensor system is comprised of a programmable, weather-resistant receiver module
and a sensor module with built-in transmitter. The receiver installs next to the irrigation controller
and connects to the controller’s 24 Vac power source and sensor input terminals (if equipped)
or splices directly into the irrigation valve common wire. The sensor module is installed within
range of the receiver in a location that best represents the landscape’s sun/shade exposure and
can provide reliable communication from the sensor to the receiver.
Once activated by preset rain or low temperature levels (rain/freeze model only), the sensor
communicates to the receiver via ultra high-frequency radio signal. The receiver responds by
placing the controller’s automatic watering schedule on hold or by simply opening the valve
common circuit to prevent sprinkler operation. When watering is once again needed, the sensor
system automatically resets, allowing automatic irrigation to resume.
More than just an accurate rain switch, the wireless sensor system actually adapts to your
landscape with the simple, yet sophisticated Water Conservation feature. Just choose the
conservation level that corresponds to your landscape soil type and the sensor location.
A dry-out period, adjusted for actual rainfall duration, is automatically placed after the sensor
system resets to effectively delay automatic watering until it is actually needed.
Other standard features include a Smart BypassTM button that gives you manual control over the
sensor system with a single touch, system status indicators to see at glance that your sensor
system is active and watering is on hold, watering delay to postpone automatic watering from
1 to 5 days, air temperature displayed for rain/freeze sensors and even a Fail-safe mode to allow
irrigation in case the sensor system is not performing properly.
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Getting Started
The wireless rain sensor system is designed for easy installation, setup and years of trouble-free
operation. In most cases, the system components can be installed and fully operational within
minutes. All you will need is a Phillips screwdriver and basic do-it-yourself skills.
If you have problems with any portion of the installation, or the product does not seem to function
properly, refer to the Troubleshooting section on page 22 first. If the problem is not listed, or the
remedy does not help, call Toro Irrigation at 1-951-688-9221 or contact your local Toro
distributor for assistance. For more information on this and other Toro irrigation products, visit
the Toro web site at www.toro.com.
Here’s all there is to it:
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The receiver is installed and connected to
your irrigation system controller. See page 5.
Step 1
The sensor and receiver are tested at close
range to verify operation. See Page 8.
Step 2
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The sensor is adjusted to the preferred
rainfall activation level. See page 11.
The sensor module is installed. See page 11.The operating features are set to your
preferences. See page 14.
A sensor installation site is chosen and the system
is tested again to verify operation. See page 10.
Step 5
Step 4
Step 6
Step 3
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Receiver Module Features
1–Setup Button–Accesses the receiver setup and operating
features.
2–Adjust Button–Selects settings within the receiver setup
and operating features.
3–Mast Antenna–Adjusts easily for best signal reception.
4–Digital Display–High-resolution LCD screen provides visual
reference for sensor system operating features.
5–Sensor Status Indicators– Rain status and Freeze status
(TWRFS-I only) indicators illuminate when the sensor
system is active and automatic watering is on hold.
6–Smart BypassTM Button–Multi-functional use. Pressed
to bypass sensor operation, allowing automatic watering to
resume. Switches the Water Delay feature on and off.
7–Water Conservation LEDs–Indicate the Water
Conservation feature level selected (Minimum, Medium or Maximum).
8–Hinged Cover–Opens downward for receiver control access.
Closed position protects receiver when installed outdoors.
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6
7
8
1
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Installing the Receiver Module
Important: Installation of this product must comply with national and local building and
electrical codes. For assistance, contact a professional irrigation system contractor in your area.
The receiver module is suitable for either indoor or outdoor installation. Select a location next to
the controller that provides the following conditions:
• The display screen is clearly visible and the control buttons are easily accessed.
• The connection cable can reach the controller wiring terminal strip without straining.
• The antenna will be unobstructed and is able to be adjusted.
1. Install one of the provided stainless steel screws into the wall at the
intended receiver location. Leave a 3mm gap behind the screw head.
Note: Use screw anchors if installing the receiver on drywall or masonry.
2. Hang the receiver on the screw ensuring the keyhole slot drops down
onto the screw shaft.
3. Install a second screw through the lower tab to secure the receiver.
4. Route the connection cable through the bottom of the controller cabinet
to the wiring connection terminals.
Important: If the receiver module is installed outdoors, be sure to keep the cover in the
closed position when you do not need to view the display or access the control buttons.
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Figure 1
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Connecting the Receiver Wires
CAUTION: The receiver requires continuous 24 Vac power for operation. Connecting to
higher power will result in irreparable damage. Ensure that power to the controller has
been removed prior to connecting the receiver wires.
The sensor system is designed to work with most makes and models of irrigation controllers.
• If your controller is equipped for a sensor connection, follow the steps in Wiring Procedure I.
• If your controller is not equipped for a sensor connection, use Wiring Procedure II on page 7.
Wiring Procedure I (sensor-ready)
Note: Refer to your controller user’s guide
to determine the type of sensor required:
Normally Closed (NC) or Normally Open (NO).
1. Locate the sensor connection terminals,
usually labeled “SENSOR” or “SN.”
Remove the jumper connector (if installed).
2. Attach the White wire to either Sensor
terminal (disregard +/ – polarity if labeled).
3. For a Normally-Closed sensor type ,attach the
Brown wire to the remaining Sensor terminal.
Tape back the Yellow wire. See Figure 2.
COM
PUMP/
MV 24 VAC
21 34 SENSOR
X
TWRFS-I
Jumper
Figure 2 - Normally-closed Sensor
Red
White
Brown
Yellow
To Valves Red
Red
White
Brown
Red
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For a Normally-Open sensor type, attach the
Yellow wire to the remaining Sensor terminal.
Tape back the Brown wire. See Figure 3.
4. Attach the two Red wires to the 24 Vac
terminals in either order.
Important: Most controllers equipped
for sensor connection provide a switch to
control the sensor circuit. Check the
switch setting to ensure that it is not in
the Bypass or Off position.
Wiring Procedure II (no Sensor terminals)
1. Locate the valve common wire terminal,
generally labeled “C” or “COM”, and remove
the attached common wire(s).
2. Attach the White wire to this terminal.
3. Splice the Brown wire to the common
wire(s) using a wire nut or electrical tape.
Tape back the Yellow wire. See Figure 4.
4. Attach the Red wires to the 24 Vac terminals.
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English
TWRFS-I
Figure 3 - Normally-open Sensor
Figure 4 - Splice Valve Common
Red
White
Brown
Yellow
To Valves
To Valves
Common to Valves
and Pump/MV
Red
Red
White Yellow
Red
Red
White
Brown
Yellow
Red
Red
White
Red
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Initial Sensor System Test
Before installing the sensor module, test the sensor system to verify operation. Once this test has
been completed satisfactorily, the sensor module can be installed. If a problem occurs during the
test procedure, refer to “Troubleshooting” on page 22.
1. Apply power to the controller. Check controller operation to confirm that it is working properly.
2. When power is applied to the receiver,
the “Min” Water Conservation indicator will
illuminate. The TWRS-I receiver will display
alternating boxes and the TWRFS-I receiver will
display two flashing bars as shown in Figures 5 and 6.
3. Holding the sensor module next to the receiver, press
and hold the sensor test spindle down for at least 15
seconds to establish communication. See Figure 7.
The Sensor Status indicator will illuminate,
the Antenna icon will flash and the signal strength
bars will appear. The TWRFS-I receiver will display
the current air temperature. See Figure 8.
4. When the Antenna icon stops flashing, release the
test spindle. The receiver display will appear as
shown in Figures 9 or 10.
8
Figure 6
Figure 7
Figure 5
Figure 8
Figure 10 (TWRFS-I)Figure 9 (TWRS-I)
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Sensor Module Features
1–Rain Threshold Adjustment–Adjusts the rain sensor to
accumulate 3mm, 6mm,12mm or 19mm of rainfall before
signaling the receiver to hold watering. The factory default
setting 6mm.
2–Sensor Test Spindle–Pressed to manually activate the
sensor for setup and test procedures.
3–Batteries (not shown)–Two 3V lithium batteries, installed
at time of manufacture, will provide approximately five
years of service under normal use conditions.
4–Antenna–Positioned downward for maximum signal
transmission strength.
5–Pipe-mount Adapter–Replaces Quick Clip mounting
bracket to enable installation on a length of 13mm thick-
wall PVC pipe.
6–Quick ClipTM Mounting Bracket–Simplifies sensor
module installation. Adjustable pivot point for easy
vertical alignment.
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3
4
5
6
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Rain Sensor Site Selection
Choosing the right installation site for the sensor module is key to obtaining the maximum benefit
from your sensor system. For best results, choose a sensor installation site that provides:
• Unobstructed exposure to rainfall–away from overhangs, tree branches, etc.
• Protected from irrigation spray, rainwater accumulation and the possibility of submersion.
• Exposure to sunlight and shade conditions similar to the landscape being watered.
• Good communication signal from the sensor to the receiver.
Note: If installing a TWRFS-I rain/freeze sensor specifically for freeze detection, refer to the
additional site selection criteria provided on page 13.
Before installing the sensor module, test the system again to confirm operation by using the
following test procedure:
1. Activate a watering zone that is visible from the intended sensor installation site.
Note: The manual operation mode of some irrigation controllers may bypass the sensor circuit.
If your controller operates like this, set an automatic cycle to start within a minute or two.
2. With the sprinklers on, press and hold the sensor test spindle until the sprinklers shut off.
Note: Irrigation control valves close at various rates. It may require several seconds for the
sprinklers to shut off.
If the test is successful, the sensor is ready to install. If the sprinklers do not shut off, try moving
the sensor a few feet in either direction and test again. Rotating the receiver antenna slightly may
improve the signal strength. Refer to “Troubleshooting” on page 22 for additional information.
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Installing the Sensor Module
1. Adjust the sensor module to the preferred rainfall threshold activation point.
The settings, provided in metric on one side of the cap and U.S. standard on
the other, include 3mm, 6mm, 12mm and 19mm. The factory setting is 6mm
and is generally a good starting point. The 3mm setting is not recommended
for high humidity or foggy locations. To adjust, turn the cap to align the
stationary pin with the vertical slot. Guide the cap to the preferred slot
position, then turn it just enough to engage the pin.
2. To install the sensor module on a rain
gutter, position the Quick Clip bracket
on the outer edge of the gutter and
secure by tightening the thumb screw
(Figure 12). Use the provided stainless
steel screws when installing the sensor
on a solid structure, such as a fence or
the side of a roof. See Figure 13.
Note: For optimum signal strength,
the antenna wire should hang straight
down. Ensure the antenna is not in
contact with any metal objects .
Figure 11
Figure 12 Figure 13
Thumb
Screw
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3. To install the sensor on a length of thick-walled PVC pipe, remove and replace the Quick Clip
bracket with the pipe-mount adapter. To provide friction between the components, ensure the
star washer is installed between the adapter and housing tab as shown in Figure 14.
4. Check the sensor module for vertical alignment. To adjust, loosen the bracket screw slightly,
align vertically and tighten screw. See Figure 15.
Figure 14 Figure 15
Star
Washer
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Freeze Sensor (model TWRFS-I) Site Selection
To ensure optimum freeze sensor operation, the sensor module installation site should meet the
site criteria of the rain sensor in addition to the following conditions:
• Located in the coldest portion of the landscape.
• Away from direct exposure to morning sunlight.
• Away from any heat producing or storing device, equipment or appliance such as a pool/spa,
heater, water heater, chimney or hot air vent pipe.
CAUTION: The freeze sensor should be regularly inspected for freeze damage and
manually tested to ensure proper operation.
The freeze sensor system is NOTintended for farm/crop freeze protection and must not be
used for this purpose.
Important: Visual checks and prudent manual watering suspension must be used in
conjunction with any freeze sensor. A freeze sensor should only be relied upon as an aid to
conscientious watering practices, including frequent visual checks.
Air temperatures may be above freezing while the ground and vegetation temperatures remain
below freezing. Due to sensor location and sunlight exposure, actual air temperature may be
lower than measured by the sensor. Operation of the sprinkler system during these conditions may
cause icing. Freeze sensor response time may not coincide with extremely rapid temperature
drop, enabling automatic irrigation to occur.
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Set Temperature Activation Threshold (TWRFS-I models only)
The freeze sensor temperature activation threshold is adjustable from 2°C to 7°C ( 35°F to 45°F).
When the air temperature reaches the threshold setting, the freeze sensor activates the receiver,
and the Freeze Status indicator will turn on. The sensor system will return to the Monitor mode
when the outside air temperature rises above the sensor threshold temperature.
Select Centigrade or Fahrenheit Temperature Scale
1. Press the Setup button to display the current temperature scale
(°C or °F) and the Setup icon will begin flashing to indicate the
selected feature can be adjusted. See Figure 16.
2. To select the alternate temperature scale, press the Advance button.
Select Temperature Threshold
1. Press the Setup button to display Temperature icon. The display
will indicate the current temperature threshold setting and the Setup
icon will begin flashing to indicate the selected feature can be adjusted.
See Figure 17.
2. Press the Advance button to set the sensor threshold temperature.
Congratulations! Your Wireless Rain Sensor system installation is complete. To take advantage
of the unique Water Conservation feature, review the information on the next page to select the
conservation level that best suits your landscape irrigation needs.
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Figure 16
Figure 17
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Water Conservation Feature – By simply choosing the Minimum (Min), Medium (Med) or
Maximum (Max) conservation level that corresponds to your landscape’s soil type and the sensor
location, a dry-out period, adjusted for actual rainfall duration, is
inserted after the sensor system resets to delay the resumption of
automatic watering.
Each conservation level represents a baseline value that is
automatically adjusted to compensate for rainfall duration.
Min (display number 1) – sets baseline at no days of delay.
Med (display number 2) – sets baseline at one day of delay.
Max (display number 3) – sets baseline at two days of delay.
To assist in choosing which conservation setting to use, review
the chart in Figure 18. First select the landscape soil type. Now,
drop down to the row that best describes the sun/shade coverage
of the sensor location. The level indicated where the two conditions meet is
the suggested starting point. That’s all there is to it!
1. Press the Setup button to display the Water Conservation icon.
The display will indicate the current water conservation level setting
and the corresponding level indicator will be illuminated. The Setup
icon will begin flashing to indicate the selected feature can be adjusted.
See Figure 19.
2. Press the Adjust button to select level 1, 2 or 3.
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English
Figure 19
Figure 18
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Smart Bypass Feature
Once the rain sensor becomes active, it can be easily bypassed by pressing
the Smart Bypass button. When the rain sensor is bypassed,
the Sensor Status indicator and Smart Bypass icon will begin
flashing. See Figure 20.
The controller will resume automatic watering operations as scheduled. The rain sensor will stay
in the Bypass mode until it automatically resets to the Monitor mode, or is returned to the active
mode by pressing the Smart Bypass button again.
Water Delay Feature
The Water Delay feature provides a convenient method of postponing automatic irrigation from
1 to 5 days when rain (or freeze) conditions are expected.
1. Press the Setup button to display the Water Delay icon.
The Setup icon will begin flashing to indicate the selected feature can
be adjusted. See Figure 21.
2. Press the Adjust button to select 1.0 to 5.0 days.
• To activate the Water Delay period, press the Smart Bypass button.
The number of days remaining in the Water Delay period will countdown as days pass.
Automatic watering will resume as scheduled when 0.0 Water Delay days remain.
• To cancel the Water Delay mode and resume automatic watering operations as scheduled,
press the Smart Bypass button again.
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Figure 21
Figure 20
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Signal Strength Display
This feature displays sensor signal strength on a digital scale ranging from 0.0 to 10.2.
1. Press the Setup button as needed to display the antenna icon and the
digital readout. The display will indicate the strength of the last received
signal. See Figure 22.
Important: A signal strength value less than 2.0 is may cause
inconsistent operation. Relocate the sensor as needed to increase the
signal strength. See “Troubleshooting” on page 22 for additional information.
Battery Strength Display
This feature displays sensor battery strength on a bar scale. The strength of the battery is indicated
by the height of the bar stack: No bar = a dead battery to six bars = full strength.
1. Press the Setup button as needed to display the Battery icon and
the bar scale. See Figure 23.
Note: If the Battery icon is flashing, low battery strength is indicated
and replacement is recommended.
See “Sensor Module Battery Replacement” on page 21.
Figure 22
Figure 23
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Dry Out Feature
The Dry Out feature is provided to override the Water Conservation baseline level, allowing the
dry-out delay period to be set with more accuracy from 0.5 to 4.0 days in 0.5-day increments.
Note: Before using the Dry Out feature, allow the sensor system to normalize by cycling through
rain and/or freeze activation several times.
1. Press the Setup button to display the Dry Out icons.
The display will indicate the current Dry Out day setting (factory default is
0.0 days). The Setup icon will begin flashing to indicate the selected
feature can be adjusted. See Figure 24.
2. Press the Adjust button to select the desired value (0.5 to 4.0 days).
Note: Once activated, the Dry Out mode can be canceled by pressing the Smart Bypass
button.
Note: Changing the Water Conservation level will override the Dry Out feature setting.
Fail Safe Feature
The Fail Safe feature is provided to alert and respond to a loss of communication signal and/or if
the sensor system stays in the active mode for a prolonged period of time. This important feature
safeguards your automatic irrigation system from being inadvertently shut off for an indefinite
period of time due to a rain sensor system malfunction.
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Figure 24
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