Smart Sense technology utilises a series of hygroscopic washers. When exposed to water, these washers slowly expand, in turn activating the valve by pushing it upwards into the seat. Water is then diverted to the outlet.
Approximately 18-30 litres or 5-8 gallons will be diverted, depending upon a variety of factors. The main factors are flow rate and the period of time since the last downfall. However, several other factors such as rainfall intensity, ambient temperature, humidity and wind will all affect the exact diversion volume.
We do not recommend adjusting the diversion volume. The hygroscopic washers divert an appropriate volume of first flush.
If the unit is new, this will most likely occur because the washers require several rainfalls to properly “bed in”. For the first few rainfalls, the washers will divert a greater volume of first flush water than normal. After several rainfall events the washers will be properly bedded and deliver consistent diversion volumes.
The resetting process is dependent upon a number of environmental factors. Ambient temperature, humidity, wind and location are all major factors in determining the resetting period. Under dry conditions with a moderate temperature, wind and humidity, the Clean Rain should completely reset within 24 to 72 hours.
There are a few quick steps to take to get your Clean Rain diverting again:
If your clean rain unit has been turned off it will not be able to be turned back on again until the hygroscopic washers are dry and the system has reset. Frost, snow, mist and dew can all activate the hygroscopic washers, so a few days where none of these are present will be required before attempting to turn the unit back on. If this is not possible then removing the unit and storing it in a dry environment for 1-2 days should suffice for the unit to be switched on again. For replacement hygroscopic washers or further information please contact Blue Mountain Co ([email protected]).
Your Clean Rain has been manufactured using materials that are capable of withstanding freezing conditions. If freezing conditions are expected, we recommend turning your unit off via the switch and, if you have a Clean Rain Ultra, ensuring that the cover is in place.
The clean rain system has been optimised for 90mm/3″ pipe. Although the system will accommodate 100mm/4″ pipe it will not be able to deliver 100% diversion should a full-bore flow event happen. We are currently working on developing a system capable of handling a full-bore 100mm/4″ pipe flow.
The easiest way to alter the resetting period is with the breather holes located in the section underneath the outlet (long horizontal indentations with small holes). To shorten the reset period, align the breather holes with any prevailing wind. To prolong the reset, simply turn the breather holes 90 degrees to the prevailing wind.
An alternative way to shorten the reset period is to remove the foam shroud surrounding the washers. It should be noted that by removing the foam shroud the diversion volume will also be decreased.
Your clean rain unit may require a diverter/flow efficiency cap. We have found that some products in the market do not have this piece. If you’re missing a diverter/flow efficiency cap, we can send this to you and provide instructions on fitting it. Look through the top of your Clean Rain to check if this cap is present. It’s a blue, disc-shaped part.