'Infrared' Urinal Flush Controls
Water Flow through the IRC seems to be very slow
Flow rate is determined by the flow restrictor built into the solenoid valve. Cistermiser provides in the IRC packaging an alternative larger insert (3mm dia) for the solenoid assembly, which can be installed in place of the standard 1.5mm diameter insert. This will enable the valve to operate with suitable flow rates from tank supplies below 2m ‘head’. The flow regulator has a pressure adjuster which should be set by the installer according to site conditions. (See Installation instructions) For water pressures greater than 6 bar, a pressure reducing valve should be fitted before the IRC.
The valve does not shut off
The IRC will remain open for a minimum of 30 minutes after activation and will be re-activated if someone comes within range of the sensor in the last five minutes of the period. So the valve should appear to be working continuously as long as there is someone in the washroom (similar to the impression that the fridge light is always on). There is also a common expectation is that the valve should open and close as people move through the washroom or that it "counts" a certain number of movements before opening. To check for self-closing cover the sensor to prevent further detection and check again after 30 mins.
The valve remains shut when the room is occupied but opens at other times
If the IRC is mains powered this problem will be caused when the remote terminal connections are crossed over. If the sensor is remote from the solenoid, a cable connection will have been installed between the two. In this case check that the connections are correct i.e. the terminals are connected 1 – 1 and 2 – 2. If they are connected 1 – 2 and 2 – 1 then the valve will be in reverse mode and be closed on detection and open during non-occupancy. If this is the case ensure that the electrical supply is suitably isolated from the terminals and re-connect the terminals correctly.
The valve goes through the test mode but does not operate normally
Remote (mains) connections should be verified and if incorrect treated as described above.
High water pressure (above 6 bar) may hold the solenoid closed against the valve’s attempts to open in response to an electrical signal. In this case a pressure-reducing valve should be fitted.
The red LED does not flash
The LED does not light up to indicate detection, it only functions during the initial cycle testing and to warn of low battery charge levels.To run the test cycle,press the small white re-set button on the top of the IRC.
There is no test mode or normal function
Check power connections to the terminal plates or battery orientation and connection.
There is a water leak around the solenoid
If the black bracket/solenoid is removed from the brass block and rotated for flow direction the ‘O’ ring seal at the join may be dislodged or lost.This should be checked.
The Infrared Control Valve does not appear to work
Firstly check that:
- The power supply, mains or battery, is functioning and connections are correct.
- There is adequate water pressure to activate the valve.
- The solenoid is responding to electrical signals.
- There is nothing blocking water flow up or downstream of the valve.
- The sensor is functioning – see ‘valve not shutting off’
Can sensors be repaired?
Sensor modules are tested throughout the assembly process and prior to dispatch, so their level of reliability is high.Causes of failure are usually accounted for by incorrect wiring, water damage or being dropped. In the unlikely event of failure purchase a replacement supplied by Cistermiser.
Installation information [PDF document]
Case study
