Careful attitude to the equipment that provides water supply, significantly extends its working life, guarantees uninterrupted operation of the system. This requires not only timely inspection and proper care, but also equipping the pumps with a full range of protection devices. It is much cheaper to prevent the possibility of a serious breakdown than to repair or buy a new unit. Do you agree?

Installing a water flow switch will protect the engine of both surface and deep pumping equipment. Indeed, most often when the motor burns out, it is easier to buy new pump than to change it. We will tell you how this important protective device works, how to choose it and include it in an autonomous water supply.

The article provides valuable recommendations for the installation of pump protection devices against operation in dry running conditions. The technology of customization for individual requirements has been disassembled. For a better perception of a considerable amount of information, photographs, diagrams, video reviews and manuals are attached.

In domestic water supply systems, the operation of a pumping station without water that threatens with an accident quite often occurs. A similar problem is called "dry running".

As a rule, the liquid cools and lubricates the elements of the system, thereby ensuring its normal performance. Even a short dry run leads to deformation of individual parts, overheating and failure of the equipment engine. Negative consequences apply to both surface and deep pump models.

Dry running occurs for various reasons:

• wrong choice of pump performance;
• unsuccessful installation;
• violation of the integrity of the water pipe;
• low fluid pressure and lack of control over its level, for which they are used;
• accumulated debris in the pumping pipe.

An automatic sensor is necessary in order to completely protect the device from the threats posed by lack of water. It measures, controls and maintains constant parameters water flow.

Pumping equipment equipped with a sensor has many advantages. It lasts longer, fails less often, consumes electricity more economically. There are also relay models for boilers

The main purpose of the relay is to self shutdown pumping station with insufficient liquid flow power and switching on after normalization of indicators.

Design and principle of operation

The sensor has unique device, through which it performs its immediate functions. The most common modification is the petal relay.

AT classical scheme The structure includes the following important elements:

• an inlet pipe that passes water through the device;
• a valve (petal) located on the wall of the inner chamber;
• isolated reed switch that closes and opens the power supply circuit;
• springs of a certain diameter with different compression ratios.

At the time when the chamber is filled with liquid, the force of the flow begins to act on the valve, displacing it around the axis.

Magnet embedded with reverse side petal, comes close to the reed switch. As a result, the contacts are closed, including the pump.

The flow of water is understood as the speed of its physical movement, sufficient to turn on the relay. Reducing the speed to zero, resulting in a complete stop, returns the switch to its original position. When setting the response threshold, this parameter is set taking into account the conditions of use of the device

When the flow of fluid stops and the pressure in the system drops below normal, the spring compression weakens, returning the valve to its original position. Moving away, the magnetic element ceases to operate, the contacts open and the pumping station stops.

Some modifications are equipped with a return magnet instead of springs. Judging by the feedback from users, they are less affected by small pressure surges in the system.

Petal relays are characteristic a large number of pluses. Among them are a simple and unpretentious design, instant response, no delays between repeated responses, the use of an accurate trigger to start equipment.

Depending on the constructive solution there are several other types of relays. These include rotary devices equipped with a paddle wheel rotating in a water stream. The speed of rotation of the blade in them is controlled by touch sensors. In the presence of liquid in the pipe, the mechanism deviates, closing the contacts.

There is also a thermal relay that operates in accordance with thermodynamic principles. The device compares the temperature set on the sensors with the temperature of the working medium in the system.

In the presence of flow, a thermal change is recorded, after which the electrical contacts are connected to the pump. In the absence of water movement, the microswitch disconnects the contacts. Models are characterized by high sensitivity, but they are quite expensive.

Instrument selection criteria

When choosing equipment that controls the strength of the water flow, you should carefully study it. specifications.

Particular attention should be paid to the range operating temperature and the pressure for which it is designed, the diameter of the thread and mounting holes, the protection class, the nuances of the application. It is also important to clarify what materials the product is made of.

Experts consider devices made of brass, stainless steel, and aluminum to be the most reliable and durable. These materials protect the structure from the critical consequences of a frequent phenomenon in plumbing systems - hydraulic shocks.

Considering different modifications of the relay, it makes sense to purchase an option made of metal. The body and working components of such devices are characterized by increased strength.

This fact allows the equipment to withstand serious loads for a long time, arising from the significant from the side of the liquid passing through the sensor.

The pressure value at which the relay operates must correspond to the power of the installed pump. The parameters of the water flow circulating through the pipeline depend on this characteristic.

It is advisable to choose a device with two springs that controls the operation of the pumping station according to certain lower and upper pressure marks.

The operating temperature range of the sensor directly indicates the possible area of ​​its application. For example, for hot water circuits and heating systems, models with a high boundary temperature are intended. For pipelines with cold water quite enough range up to 60 degrees

Another important criterion worth mentioning is climatic conditions necessary for the operation of the product. This is the recommended air temperature and humidity level that the device needs to provide so that it can work with the best performance.

Maximum permissible loads for a particular device determines the protection class specified in the technical specifications.

When buying a flow sensor, you should check the diameter of the thread section and the dimensions of the mounting holes in the equipment: they must fit perfectly with the elements of the pipeline. The correctness and accuracy of further installation, as well as the efficiency of the relay after installation, depend on this.

Trustworthy Instruments

Among the entire range of relays, two models are most in demand, located in approximately the same price category - about $ 30. Let's consider their characteristics in more detail.

Genyo Lowara Genyo 8A

Development of a Polish company engaged in the production of electronic equipment for control systems. It is intended for application in household water supply systems.

Genyo allows for automatic pump control: starting and shutting down based on actual water consumption, preventing any pressure fluctuations during operation. Also, the electric pump is protected from running dry.

The main purpose is to control the pump and control the pressure in the pipes during operation. This sensor starts the pump when the water flow exceeds 1.6 liters per minute. It consumes 2.4 kW of electricity. The operating temperature range is from 5 to 60 degrees.

Grundfos UPA 120

Manufactured in factories in Romania and China. Maintains the stability of the water supply in rooms equipped with individual water supply systems. Prevents pumping units from idling.

The Grundfos brand relay is equipped with a high protection class, allowing it to endure almost any load. Electricity consumption in it is about 2.2 kW

The automation of the device starts at a flow rate of 1.5 liters per minute. The boundary parameter of the covered temperature range is 60 degrees. The unit is produced in compact linear dimensions, which greatly facilitate the installation process.

Liquid flow switches are installed for devices that need constant control and compliance with a certain operating mode. Often they complete the equipment at the production stage. However, there are circumstances where a separate mounting of the sensor is required.

Rules for installing relays in the system

Installation safety device, which determines the presence or absence of water flow in the system, is a reasonable step in cases where it is not possible to be constantly present during the operation of pumping equipment.

It is not required only in two cases:

1. Water is pumped from a large well with unlimited resources by a low power pump.
2. It is possible to independently turn off the unit when the water level drops below the designated norm.

The device is installed on horizontal sections of the pipeline. In this case, it is necessary to ensure that the membrane takes a stable vertical position.

The device is mounted to the drain pipeline using a threaded coupling. Usually a special socket is provided for this.

If there is no hole for mounting the sensor in the pumping equipment, you can replace it with a brass tee. In addition to the relay, a pressure gauge is connected to it, showing the current pressure in the network.

Before proceeding with the direct screwing of the device, it is advisable to seal the thread well with flax or thread sold in specialized departments.

It is better to wind it in a clockwise direction towards the end. This method of fastening increases the reliability of fixation.

In order not to damage the relay, you should screw it very carefully, slightly tightening it. wrench. Optimal distance between the product and the pipeline - at least 55 mm

When installing the factory sensor, it is necessary to focus on the arrow shown on the case. The direction indicated on it must coincide with the direction of flow of the liquid passing through the device.

If contaminated water is transported through the pipeline, it is recommended to install cleaning filters, placing them near the sensor. Such a move will ensure the correct operation of the product.

At the final stage installation work the dry-running relay is connected to the electrical network:

• a wire core is screwed to the free ends of two groups of contacts;
• a ground is attached to the sensor screw;
• the device is connected to the pump by connecting two devices with an ordinary wire in compliance with.

After connecting to the network, the only thing left is to check the system's performance. The fact that the device is ready for full operation will be indicated by the growth of pressure marks on the pressure gauge and automatic shutdown pump at the moment of overcoming the limit value.

Self-adjustment procedure

There are special bolts in the sensor for adjustment. By loosening or tightening them, you can reduce or increase the compression force of the spring.

Thus, the pressure level is set at which the device will operate.

Almost always, manufacturing companies produce equipment with adjusted settings. Despite this, sometimes additional self-adjustment is required.

In most cases, setting up automatic equipment is not difficult.

It is advisable to adhere to the following algorithm:

• drain the fluid from the system until the pressure mark reaches zero;
• turn on pumping unit and slowly run the water back;
• fix the flow pressure indicator when the pump is turned off by the sensor;
• start draining again and remember the indicators at which the pumping equipment will start working;
• open the relay and adjust with the adjusting bolt the minimum level of compression of the larger spring required to operate the device and start the pump (more compression increases the degree of pressure, less - reduces);
• in a similar way, adjust the compression force of the smaller spring mechanism by setting the maximum pressure limits, upon reaching which the relay measuring the water flow will turn off the pump.

After completing all the described manipulations, you should make sure that the adjustments made are correct. To do this, the pipeline is filled with liquid, and then it is drained, evaluating the reaction of the sensor while reaching the set values.

If the test result is not satisfactory, the procedure is repeated.

Having insufficient experience and qualifications, it is better to seek help in adjusting from specialists. They will analyze the specific situation, take into account the technical characteristics of the equipment and select the most correct values pressure level

In order for the pipeline through which the liquid passes to work properly and stably, a regular annual check of the flow sensors is carried out. If necessary, the setting of the operating parameters is adjusted.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Structure, components and principles of operation:

The process of connecting the device in stages:

Read more about how to adjust the trigger level in the relay:

A relay that controls the flow of water in the pipeline will significantly increase the usability of pumps and extend their life for a long time. Neglect installation safety device highly undesirable, since it not only automates the operation of the equipment, but also protects it to the maximum from possible problems that occur due to idling.

Do you want to install the flow switch yourself, but are a little confused by the instructions? Please ask your questions, and we and the visitors of our site will try to help you.

Or maybe you have successfully coped with the installation and configuration of the device and want to give useful advice other newbies? Write your comments in the block below, add a photo of the installation or setup process - your experience will be useful to many home craftsmen.

Hydraulic water flow sensor - also simply detects the presence of a flow, regardless of the amount of passing fluid, ranging from 1.7 to 30 l / min. The sensor is triggered by pressing the switch button under the influence of the pressure of the passing water. The water flow acts on the boiler membrane, moving the rod with the plate pressing the button of the DHW flow sensor. After the water movement stops, the pressure on both sides of the membrane equalizes and the rod drives back, releasing the flow sensor button to its original position - the contact opens. The use of such a principle for determining the flow has faded into the background with the start of the use of reed flow switches, which have proven to be more reliable, simple and durable.

Water flow switch- allows you to instantly determine the flow of water that has appeared. Structurally includes a float original design with built-in magnet and reed switch. Under the influence of the water flow, the float moves to the upper position, it approaches the sensor. At the same time, the built-in magnet acts with its magnetic field on the micro-reed switch switch, which leads to a contact closure. The design feature is that the float does not float up, but moves relative to the axis by the pressure of water. The minimum flow is 1.7 l / min., which can be fixed by the flow switch, a flow limiter is installed at the outlet up to 15 l / min. bandwidth. It helps to avoid the situation when the flow through the heat exchanger exceeds the DHW capacity of the boiler. Due to too much flow in the circuit hot water insufficient heating may occur. Often, in our conditions, we are faced with the opposite situation, when the pressure and water flow are very low, the boiler therefore does not start or overheats the water when operating in column mode, as a way out of the situation - the dismantling of the flow restrictor.

Hall Sensor- when the magnet in the turbine rotates, a rotating magnetic field arises. The rotation speed of this field completely coincides with the amount of water passing through the flow sensor. The Hall sensor under the influence of this field generates electrical impulses that are read by the boiler board. The frequency of these pulses is used to calculate the water flow rate of the boiler. Thanks to the Hall sensor at the outlet, we get water with a stable temperature, which does not depend on the amount of flow. The use of such a sensor is due to the constant desire of gas equipment manufacturers to achieve maximum comfort in the operation of boilers and columns. The water temperature error when working with such a flow sensor is reduced to a minimum of 1-2 degrees.

The efficient operation of pumping equipment is the key to uninterrupted water supply and the functioning of the heating system in a private house. If you want to enjoy the benefits of civilization day after day, you must make every effort to properly establish.

The solution to this problem includes a wide range of work, the main of which is the installation of additional equipment, which will help to clearly control possible failures in the system and prevent the pump from failing.

The most popular and useful in everyday life are such auxiliary devices as: a temperature sensor, as well as a water flow sensor. It is about the properties and operational features of the latter device that will be discussed in this article.

1 Purpose and benefits

In everyday life, an emergency switching on of the pump without water occurs periodically, which is considered extremely dangerous, because this can cause equipment breakdown. Popularly referred to as "dry running" leads to overheating of the engine and deformation of parts.

Such negative changes occur because the water in the system performs a lubricating and cooling function. Operation in the "dry run" mode, even for a short time, adversely affects the equipment, whether it is circulating or. To avoid such problems, the pumping station is equipped with automation - a water flow sensor. It will prevent negative changes in the system and avoid the cost of repairing the pump.

The water flow sensor is a device for controlling a pumping station in. In addition, this automatic device serves to increase the pressure and protect the pump, which is used in heating systems.

The principle of operation of the sensor is that it controls the power of the fluid flow and independently turns on or off pumping station when the flow of water appears and passes through it. Thus, it is possible to prevent a possible "dry run", because submersible or circulation pump actuates the system and raises the pressure inside it only when required.

Installing a water flow sensor entails a number of good points in operation of the pumping station:

• saving energy costs;
• reducing the risk of equipment failure;
• increase pump life.

1.1 Design and principle of operation

As it has already become clear, the built-in water flow sensor is used in the circulation systems of heating and water supply of private houses. His job is to stop the pumping station in the absence of a liquid flow and prevent a “dry run”, and when water appears, put the equipment into action. The sensor received such working properties due to its design.

The device consists of a valve ("petal"), which is located in the flow part, and a reed switch. When water pressure occurs, the petal valve begins to move, squeezing the spring. At the same time, the magnet on the "petal" and the reed relay enter into interaction.

As a result, the contacts close, which drives the submersible or circulation pump. When there is no water and corresponding pressure in the system, the valve spring is released, moving the magnet to its original position - this causes the contacts to open and the equipment to stop.

The water flow sensor for a circulation or submersible pump is easy to install in an existing system, you just need to choose the right device, paying due attention to key parameters.

1.2 Key features

The purchase of a water flow sensor for should be approached in detail. We recommend that you focus on the following characteristics of the device:

• case material and working components;
• operating pressure;
• coolant temperature range;
• operating conditions and protection class;
• thread diameter.

To understand the impact of each of these factors on operational features devices, consider them step by step. The material of the housing and working components affect the reliability and durability of the sensor that is installed on the pump. It is desirable that the device is based on metals: stainless steel, aluminum or brass.

These materials are able to protect the working elements from a powerful flow of water and water hammer. Be sure to study the level of operating pressure at which the sensor is capable of functioning. For each circulation pump, this value will be individual, so you need to calculate the appropriate parameter in advance.

There are devices that provide two levels of pump control: by the lower pressure limit of the system to turn it on and by the upper pressure limit in the event of a cessation or an unacceptably low level of water flow to turn off the pumping station.

A sensor with the possibility of such programming is considered optimal. When choosing equipment for controlling the flow of water, it is impossible to neglect such a parameter as the temperature range of the coolant.

Conditions of use of devices may vary significantly. It is one thing if you have to mount the sensor in a heating system, where temperatures can reach 110 ° C, and quite another when the pump is used to turn on and supply cold water.

In the latter case, you can choose a device designed for a temperature range of 60-80 ° C. In order for the pump and the purchased sensor to remain operational for as long as possible, pay attention to the conditions under which the equipment should operate.

The instructions for the device must indicate the level of ambient temperature and the protection class. The last criterion determines the loads that the sensor installed in the pump can withstand.

To perform a correct and accurate installation, you will have to pay attention not only to allowable temperatures operation of the device, but also on the diameter of the connecting thread. Only with the correct and high-quality docking of the elements, it is possible to achieve the effective functioning of the sensor after its preliminary installation and switching on.

1.3 About the device and characteristics (video)

2 Adjustment and connection of the sensor

The flow sensor, which is used to monitor the water level and pressure in the system, should be adjusted immediately after purchase. The process is as follows: the device is shipped with the contacts open and the calibration screw tightened.

After the pump is turned on and the optimum water level is reached, the lamella moves in the direction of the liquid flow, which leads to the closing of the contacts. If the lamella does not start to move, this means that this level of water flow is not enough. In the case when the device does not respond, you need to set another value and do the operation again.

There are a number of rules that will facilitate the installation of the flow sensor, the main of them is that the installation of the device should take place on horizontal pipeline, no matter what temperature water moves inside. In this case, you need to ensure that the lamella is located vertically.

The distance between the pipe and the device should be carefully measured - the minimum allowable value is 55 mm. Using a threaded coupling, the sensor is connected to the drain pipeline, regardless of the water level inside.

The device must be oriented so that the arrows on its body correspond to the direction of water flow in the system. When high level coolant contamination is mounted in front of the sensor.

The introduction of a water flow sensor for the boiler into the heating and hot water supply system makes it possible to secure communications from such a phenomenon as “dry running”. This is what experts call emergency activation of the pump in conditions where there is no water in the circuit, there is a high probability of engine overheating and failure of connecting components.

Water flow sensor for gas boiler is a device combined with a pump through pipes, it controls the pressure indicators in the water supply system. The standard package of the node in question includes:

• relay;
• wide inner chamber;
• feed output channel;
• a set of plates;
• a compact float inserted into a fixed flask;
• a small control valve mounted at the outlet.

The sensor operates as follows: if there is no working fluid flow in the system, the device automatically turns off the pumping station so that the circuit does not run dry, when water appears, the units start up again.

Through the branch pipe, the liquid enters the apparatus; a petal or valve is provided on its inner wall. The reed switch is isolated from other components, it is responsible for connecting to the power supply. The design also includes multi-caliber springs.

When the valve is affected by water pressure, it shifts relative to its axis, and the opposite magnet approaches the switch. Such a movement causes the contact to close, as a result, the pump is connected. When the flow of fluid stops, when the pressure decreases, due to the weakening compression, the valve returns to its original position. Beckoning is displaced, the contact is disconnected, the pump stops working.

Water flow monitoring devices are often built into circuits that need constant and comprehensive monitoring of life support system indicators, in equipment operating in a complex environment. automatic mode. Typically, such a sensor is used in tandem with a gas boiler and a pump; improved bundles are equally effective for both hot water supply and heating in the private sector.

The flow sensor is installed on the pipeline through which fluid is supplied from the water supply. When water enters the system, the device sends a signal received by the boiler board, as a result, the operation of the circulation pump is suspended. The boiler control board activates the nozzles that provide heating running water, due to which the temperature of the liquid in the heat exchanger begins to rise. When the tap is closed, the sensor notifies the system that the water supply has stopped.

Modern communication systems are based on autonomous water supply - in this case, the most comfortable conditions residence. Here, the entire functionality of the flow sensor comes down to the fact that when any of the devices embedded in the water supply system is activated, the pump is connected and water flows. Therefore, when choosing a model, it is important to consider its size and throughput.

Varieties of the model range

According to the type of execution, the nodes are classified into choke and relay, they are also typified in terms of working pressure.

Relay devices are installed on pumps that do not have high power. As a rule, relay sensors serve as a rational addition to single-chamber devices. Experts warn that this class of devices exhibits low conductivity. In the profile market, there are models characterized by vertical placement of plates. The upper limit of their working pressure is 5 Pa. Representatives of the P48 series are often introduced into protective systems, they minimize the likelihood of leaks, attract with stability and reliable performance.

Choke devices that functionally complement pumps have become widespread. They can be distinguished by the characteristic horizontal placement of the plates, in samples with improved technology, two valves can be seen. Here, too, the maximum pressure in the system should not exceed 5 Pa, but the protection class differs from the previous version - P58. The level of patency of the node is directly dependent on the dimensions of the fitting.

If we consider the device triggering mechanism, one of two scenarios can be used:

• a model that functions on the principle of a Hall sensor - it gives signals both about the presence of a water flow and about the parameters of its supply (that is, speed);
• reed sensors operate on the principle of a magnet - a magnetic float is provided in their body, it moves along the internal cavity, thereby influencing the location of the reed switch.

Low pressure devices are rational for installation on pumps whose power does not exceed 4 kW. Camera parameters have a direct impact on the degree of passability of the device. The profile market is filled with two float models of sensors for pumps. A rich assortment range and loyal cost contribute to their widespread use.

In device design high pressure a single elongated fitting is provided, in which the plates are placed in a horizontal direction. It is recommended to use similar samples in tandem with centrifugal pumps. It provides protection class P70, the maximum pressure mark is at the level of 6 Pa.

Instrument selection criteria

• the level of electricity consumption;
• maximum pressure;
• priority method of mounting the boiler, pump, directly the sensor;
• mass range attachments, which will not damage the performance of the boiler;
• requirements for the quality of the passed water;
• device performance.

The node markings usually indicate models and full specifications equipment, in tandem with which a particular device will fully function. The cost of production is influenced by factors such as body material, type of fixation, weight, power consumption and operating head.

Strengths of the units:

• simple installation - installation can be done on your own;
• the possibility of coordinating all parameters of the flow of water or working fluid;
• the ability to automatically turn off the pump in case of emergency;
• rich assortment and flexible price range.

When choosing, it should be borne in mind that when the springs are weakened, the correct operation of the assembly will be called into question. Not in every heating system you can implement a similar component, here you need to delve into the specification.

Overview of products from the best manufacturers

Companies whose range includes double-circuit boilers offer users a highly specialized optional equipment, among which a special niche is occupied by flow sensors.

Electrolux products are compatible with the GCB 24 X FI and GCB 24 XI series, their weight is only 150 g, the maximum working pressure is 1.5 Pa. The dimensions of the devices are compact - 40x115x45 mm, the pressure range does not exceed 3 bar, the upper mark of the permissible humidity of the environment is 70%.

Viessmann Vitopend WH1D

The Wismann flow sensor is installed in the gas boiler on the left side of the hydroblock. This element is necessary to control the parameters and performance of the hot water flow. Model designed for the Vitopend and Vitopend 100 series.

Ariston GENUS CLAS B 24

The Genus Ariston sensor is necessary for coordinating the heating of water by a gas boiler. During the flow, a signal is received on the electronic board of the latter, as a result, the equipment switches to the operating mode. A magnetic float is enclosed in a composite plastic case, it acts on the reed switch, the contacts of which close (the boiler starts producing hot water) or open (heating is provided).

Grundfos UPA 120

The device protects the pump from idling, is being introduced into individual water supply systems. The functionality of automation needs to ensure a steady flow of fluid of at least 90-120 l / h. The protection class of the device is IP65, the power consumption of this budget model does not exceed 2.2 kW. The operating temperature limits are kept in the positive range - from 5 to 60 ° C, 8 A - an indicator of the maximum current consumption.

It is widely used in domestic water supply systems, the basis for its activity is the actual water consumption. The sensor is able to monitor the level of pressure in the water supply. The pump starts only when the water flow reaches 1.5 liters per minute. The degree of protection of the unit is IP65, the operating voltage is used in the range of 220-240 V. The power consumption is kept at around 2.4 kW.

Immergas 1.028570

Initially, the model was developed for use with boilers of the same brand, it is compatible with a double-circuit gas equipment series Victrix 26, Mini 24 3 E, Major Eolo 24 4E. The device can be used with boilers of turbocharged and chimney versions. The sensor is enclosed in a plastic housing, equipped with a threaded element for implementation in the system. An additional option is the possibility of obtaining hot water with a stable temperature at the outlet.

A significant segment of the water flow sensors for the boiler is supplied complete with heating equipment, so the need for their installation arises only in the event of a breakdown, when you have to think about a proportional replacement. A rare case when a separate installation of the device is planned is the need to increase the pressure of the fluid supplied to the system. A similar situation occurs if central water supply characterized by low pressure, barely reaching the needs of the boiler. To gas appliance was able to provide the proper quality of hot water, he must deal with good pressure.

To solve this problem, an additional circulation pump is mounted and equipped with a water flow sensor (the components must be introduced into the system in this order). With the beginning of the flow of water, the device activates the pump, which leads to an increase in pressure.

Homemade models are made from a chamber to be used in conjunction with three horizontally mounted plates. It is important that the latter do not come into contact with each other and do not touch the flask.

For the simplest modifications, the introduction of one float is sufficient. The fitting should be mounted in tandem with two adapters, the maximum allowable valve pressure is 5 Pa.

The operation of modern household and industrial appliances largely depends on the correct and uninterrupted operation of electronic devices. In many ways, this state of affairs suits, however, as soon as a failure occurs, the normal rhythm of life turns into a continuous hassle. But in principle, nothing terrible happens, just one of the components fails.

It is to such components of modern household appliances and includes a water flow sensor. A simple device that is equipped with gas hot water boilers, autonomous water supply systems, irrigation systems, well pumps.

Like all electronic components, the water flow sensor also has the principles by which it works. In principle, everything is simple here, the whole point of his work is to signal whether there is water movement or not. The sensor is installed, for example, in a pipe. When the faucet is closed, there is no water movement, and as soon as the faucet opens, the water begins to move and the sensor is triggered, the contacts close and the signal goes to the control board.

True, it is necessary to immediately indicate that the sensor is preliminarily adjusted to a certain sensitivity threshold - this is when the movement of water must reach a certain mark, for example, 1.7 liters per minute. That's when the sensor will turn on, while it will continue to work until the water supply rate drops below the mark, and then the contacts open and the control board stops receiving a signal.

Areas of use

AT living conditions water flow sensors have found their application mainly in devices that require constant monitoring of home life support systems and compliance with a certain mode of their operation. By controlling the water supply, motion sensors can significantly reduce the cost of maintaining a home, make life much more comfortable and safer.

For gas boiler

The main place of application of the water flow sensor in modern houses steel gas boilers. Equipped with such sensors, modern gas boilers combine the functions of a hot water heater and a heating boiler.

The water flow sensor installed on the tap water supply pipeline reacts to the beginning of the movement of water when the hot water tap is opened.

The sensor sends a signal to the boiler control board, and the electronics turns off the heating circulation pump, turns off the heating gas nozzles, and closes the water circulation valve in the heating system. And then the board turns on the nozzles for heating running water and the process of heating water begins in the heat exchanger. When the tap is closed, the sensor detects the stoppage of water movement, which is signaled to the control board.

for pump

Many modern households are equipped with autonomous water supply systems. Such systems allow you to have a level of comfort comparable to apartments in a private house, but at the same time not depend on a centralized water supply.

The system, consisting of a pump, a water tank and a control system, allows you to service all the systems necessary for a comfortable stay - automatic washing machines, dishwashers, enjoy hot water and toilet.

The role of the water flow sensor is that when any of the devices connected to the water supply system is turned on or water is taken, the sensor turns on the pump and the water supply automatically starts. It doesn't matter if the laundry starts, the tap in the kitchen opens or the toilet bowl goes down.

Another option for using water flow sensors are systems automatic watering. Here, in addition to the opening function, the flow sensor controls the amount of water used for irrigation. This function is necessary to control metered watering and avoid waterlogging of the soil. The sensor installed on the central pipeline provides information to the system control panel.

Kinds

Today greatest application found two types of water flow sensors - a Hall sensor and a reed relay.

The flow water sensor, based on the principle of operation of the Hall sensor (it is also called a flow meter), is a small turbine on which a magnet is mounted. When the turbine rotates, the magnet creates a magnetic field and, like a turbine in a hydroelectric power plant, it generates small electrical impulses that go to the boiler control board. The speed of rotation of the turbine depends on the speed of the water supply, the greater the flow, the clearer the pulses. Thus, thanks to the Hall sensor, it is possible not only to signal the flow of water, but also the speed of the water supply.

The reed water flow sensor is a sensor based on the principles of a magnet. Basically, this sensor looks like this - inside the chamber made of composite material there is a magnetic float, with an increase in water pressure, the float moves around the chamber and acts on the reed switch.

Reed switch, and this is nothing more than two magnetic plates in a chamber without air, under the action of magnetic field the float opens, and the control board switches the boiler to hot water mode.

Installation

Considering that most water flow sensors are structurally part of the devices, their installation is required only in case of replacement in case of failure. However, there are situations when the water flow sensor must be installed separately, for example, when it becomes necessary to increase the pressure of the water supply.

After all, situations often occur when the system central water supply insufficient pressure, and to turn on the gas boiler in hot water mode, it is necessary to create a good pressure. In this case, an additional circulation pump is installed, equipped with a water flow sensor.

AT this case the sensor is installed after the pump, so when the water begins to move, the sensor turns on the pump and the water pressure rises.

Overview of models and prices

Water flow sensor for pump Grundfos UPA 120

The main application is the automatic control of the pump of the water supply system. The sensor is designed to provide water supply individual home, apartments equipped individual system water supply. Switching on the automatic sensor occurs with a steady flow of liquid in the range of 90-120 liters per hour.

The main purpose is to protect the pump from idling. The sensor is used with GRUNDFOS booster pumps of the UPA series. These units have small linear dimensions, which allows installation directly into the water supply line.

The use of a sensor allows the pump to operate in several operating modes, allowing both automatic switching on and switching on when necessary. The sensor automation turns off the pump in the event of an increase in pressure in the water supply to a normal value.

Characteristics:

• power consumption - up to 2.2 kW;
• degree of protection - IP 65;
• manufacturer - GRUNDFOS;
• country of origin - Romania, China;

The price is 30 dollars.

Water flow sensor of the GENYO series - LOWARA GENYO 8A

Products of a company specializing in the production of various electronic devices for control systems. The model is designed to control the domestic water supply system pump based on the actual water consumption. The main feature of the sensor is to control the pressure in the water supply during operation. The LOWARA GENYO 8A sensor is designed to start the pump when the water flow reaches 1.5-1.6 liters per minute.

Characteristics:

• the pump is started at a water flow rate of 1.5 liters per minute;
• operating voltage of the sensor - 220-240 V;
• current consumption frequency - 50-60 Hz;
• maximum current consumption - 8A;
• power consumption - up to 2.4 kW;
• operating temperature range - 5-60 degrees Celsius;
• degree of protection - IP 65;
• manufacturer - LOWARA ;
• country of origin - Poland;

The price is 32 dollars.

Designed for installation in gas double-circuit boilers trademark Immergas. Compatible with models: Mini 24 3 E, Victrix 26, Major Eolo 24 4E | 284E. The flow sensor for hot water supply is designed for installation in gas boilers trademark Immergas chimney and turbocharged versions. The flow sensor is made in a plastic housing with a threaded connection. Hall sensor 1.028570 allows you to get water at the outlet of the hot water circuit with a stable temperature,

Price $41.