Where should I install the water valve?
The water valve should be installed on the main, incoming water line. Install it slightly downstream of the existing manual shut-off valve, but upstream from where the system begins to branch off to other appliances. It is also important to mount the valve so that the homeowner has easy access to the face of the unit and manual turn handle.
Do I need a plumber to install a water valve?
Check your state or municipality’s plumbing code requirements. Most states require installation by a licensed plumber, and we recommend that you call a plumber.
Can the water valve and sensor be installed outdoors?
No. The water valve and water sensors are designed for indoor installation, in crawl spaces, basements, garages, attics, or other locations away from the elements. Do not install the valve in an outdoor meter pit, or in the ground.
Does the system shut off the value when a leak is detected?
The easiest way to achieve this is to directly associate the sensor to the water valve. Another option is to create a rule in Fusion that tells the valve to close automatically when a leak is detected.
With both methods, your dealer can configure the Clare controller to send you a text notification that the valve has been closed.
Will my water shut off if I lose my electricity?
The water valve will remain in the position that it was in when the power failed. When power is restored, the valve will remain in the position it was in prior to power failure. This setting is by default.
Can I use the water sensor to measure the temperature of a water pipe by attaching an external sensor around the water pipe?
Our water sensor detects temperature via an internal thermistor. Therefore, it is not possible to accomplish this by hard wiring it to the water sensor.
Does the water valve protect against frozen or burst pipes?
The water valve system cannot prevent your pipes from freezing. However, using our water temperature sensors will shut off your water in the event that the ambient indoor temperature near pipes drops below a preset temperature. This can be setup by your dealer with a automation rule in the CLIQ controller.
Does the water valve work without a Z-Wave network?
Yes, the unit will work independently of the Z-Wave network, but with very limited functionality. When it is not included in a Z-Wave network, you will be limited to only local operation.
By pairing the valve and sensor to the CLIQ controller’s Z-wave network, you will automate water leak detection and valve shut-off features. This helps eliminate costly water damages, while letting you receive notification that a plumber should be dispatched.
If I don't hear a beep when inserting a battery, what should I do?
Remove the battery and re-insert it into the battery holder. If you still don’t hear a beep, your battery may be dead or defective. Try inserting a new battery. If you install a new batter and problem persists, contact your Clare Controls dealer.
How do I check to ensure that my water sensor is working?
Moisten a paper towel and place it over both of the sensor pads on the water sensor until you see two quick LED blinks. This is indication your sensor is working. Remove the paper towel and dry the small metal sensor contacts. Drying the contacts will clear the water alarm.
How many water sensors should I use?
Each installation is unique, and the number needed depends on what areas of your home or building you want to protect. Place sensors near or under washing machines, water heaters, ice makers, dishwashers, humidifiers, sinks, toilets, and other areas that are most likely to be the source of water leaks.
How much water must be present before the sensor detects a leak?
It only takes a few ounces of water to activate the sensor. Be sure to place the sensor in an advantageous location to detect leaks and puddling at the earliest possible stage.
Why can I close the valve, but no reopen it?
The valve was installed in Water Alarm mode, which does not allow the valve to open with the same basic set command. This is a security feature set so that a water sensor detecting a leak does not continually open and close the valve, since the sensor sends the same command for open or close. The Z-Wave gateway should send a smart command and not a basic set command. You can get around by setting up the water valve in Water Level mode (irrigation mode). This way, the same basic set command will open or close the valve. Instructions on this and explanation can be found in the user manual.
To switch between Water Alarm mode and Water Level mode prior to inclusion in the network, do the following:
- Hold the program button for 1 or more seconds.
- While still holding the program button, press the Open button (for Water Level mode), or the Close button (for Water Alarm mode).
Note: This button press sequence is not available after network inclusion.