How to install an AIR-SS-2 Aerial-Mounted Snow Sensor
Unlock the secrets of correctly installing and testing an aerial sensor for an efficient snow melting system.
Struggling with inconsistent snow melting system performance due to faulty sensor placement? Achieve optimal results by correctly installing an aerial sensor. This video walks you through the entire process, from selecting the perfect location to testing the system.
- Identify the ideal location for sensor installation, ensuring maximum snow detection.
- Learn about the necessary equipment, including a waterproof box, PVC, and extension cable.
- Understand how to assemble and secure the sensor in a watertight junction box.
- Discover the correct way to connect the sensor wires to the extension cable.
- Learn how to test the system using water and compressed air to simulate wet and cold conditions.
This video is a comprehensive guide for both novices and professionals looking to install an aerial sensor for their snow melting systems or roof and gutter deicing systems. By following these steps, you ensure a system that is safe, effective, and reliable, providing long-lasting performance during those chilly winter months. Learn more about our Aerial-Mounted Sensor and Snow Melt Controls.
Hello and welcome to today's installation video. Today we're going to be installing an aerial sensor for a snow melting system. Let's discuss the ideal locations for sensor installation. On the screen right now, you can see a picture of a building in wintertime, showcasing where the snow is resting. We want to position the sensor in an open area where snow can directly hit it. It’s important to ensure that you can run the necessary pipe to that spot and also that you can run the sensor wire from that location into the building. Remember, you cannot run the sensor wire in the same conduit as a high-voltage wire.
We have identified a location where snow consistently falls; it is not directly next to the building or under a tree, but rather in a spot where snow accumulates during winter. We will install the sensor here, ensuring that we can also run our conduit from the building to this location. It is crucial to remember that the low-voltage conduit must not enter a conduit that contains high-voltage wiring. Therefore, we will need a dedicated low-voltage conduit to connect this sensor to the building.
Now that we have moved indoors, we can demonstrate how to make the necessary connections more clearly. First, we need our sensor, which is essential for the installation. Additionally, we will require a waterproof box, appropriate box fittings, and pieces of PVC along with glue to ensure all connections are watertight. We will also be using an 18-gauge extension cable, which allows the sensor to be placed up to 1,000 feet away from the control unit. If you opt for a 20-gauge cable, the maximum distance is reduced to about 500 feet. After assembling everything, we will also demonstrate how to test the system using water and compressed air.
To begin assembly, we will insert the PVC and glue it into place, ensuring that all connections are watertight. Next, we will install the sensor by feeding the wire into the top of the junction box, which will also be secured with PVC cement. The extension cable, supplied by the electrician, will be run into the box as well. We will connect the three wires from the sensor to the corresponding wires on the extension cable. Once all connections are made, we can proceed to seal the box.
With the aerial sensor installed and wired to the control unit using the extension wire, it's time to test the system to ensure it functions correctly. To do this, turn on your controller and trick the sensor into thinking it is wet and cold. You will need water and compressed air for this process. Specifically, you should turn the can of compressed air upside down to freeze the sensor. The sensor consists of a wetness sensor at the top and a temperature sensor at the base, activating when it detects moisture and temperatures below 38 degrees.
Start by applying water to the top grid of the sensor to connect the separate parts of the grid, simulating wet conditions. Next, locate the tab above the label on the opposite side of the sensor. Spray the base with the upside-down can of compressed air for about 30 to 45 seconds, ensuring you have a full can to effectively freeze the sensor. Within a few seconds, you should hear the controller click on, indicating that the test of your aerial sensor is complete.
Finally, let's review the installation of the sensor. It should be tilted slightly, about 15 degrees, to allow excess water to drain off. Additionally, ensure that you have a sufficiently long tube for the installation. If you glue the sensor directly to a short tube, replacing it later could be problematic. Always leave extra space to accommodate future maintenance. It’s also essential to use a waterproof box with a proper seal to keep all internal connections dry. A common issue with sensors failing is that they are functional, but the internal connections have become wet.
That wraps up our installation video on the WarmlyYours Aerial Snow Melt Sensor. If you have any further questions, feel free to call us at 800-875-5285 or visit us at warmlyyours.com.
