Water leaks can cause extensive damage to a home’s structure, leading to costly repairs and safety hazards. The Floodstop FS34NPT automatic water shut-off system is designed to detect leaks and immediately stop water flow to the water heater, helping to mitigate potential damage. This article provides a comprehensive guide to installing the Floodstop system, based on the official documentation and user manuals available for the product.
Overview of the Floodstop System
The Floodstop FS34NPT system consists of a control panel, two motorized ball valves, and a leak detection sensor. The valves are solid brass and full-port, ensuring reliable operation over time. The control panel is equipped with a lighted interface and features both automatic and manual operation options. The system is powered by an AC supply with a battery backup, allowing it to function during power outages.
The system is intended for use with water lines only and must not be installed on gas lines. The valves are designed to shut off water supply automatically when a leak is detected. It is important to note that the system does not prevent all water from escaping in the event of a leak — it stops the flow of water from the supply valve to the water heater. However, residual water within the heater and hoses may still escape.
Key Installation Considerations
Before beginning the installation, it is important to gather the necessary tools and materials. The installation involves working with copper or rigid piping and may require additional fittings, such as adapters or unions, depending on the existing plumbing setup. The documentation strongly recommends consulting a licensed plumber if the user is unfamiliar with water line installation.
The system should be installed within two feet of the water heater to allow the leak sensor to lie flat on the floor. The control panel should be mounted within 30 inches of the valves for accessibility. The installation process involves shutting off the main water supply, preparing the piping, and connecting the control panel to the valves.
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Before starting the installation, the main water supply valve should be turned off to prevent water flow. The manual cold water valve that supplies the water heater should also be shut off. This step is crucial to ensure the system is installed safely and without water flow.
2. Evaluate the Piping and Select Fittings
The Floodstop valve is installed between the rigid water line from the manual cold water valve and the water heater. Most rigid lines are copper. The user must determine which adapter fitting is needed to connect the Floodstop valve to the existing piping. A common adapter is 3/4" solder x 3/4" MIP. Additionally, a union may be required between the Floodstop valve and the water heater. In some cases, a flexible or corrugated water heater connector may be used instead of a union.
3. Install the Floodstop Valve
The Floodstop valve should be positioned so that the arrow on the side of the valve is pointing toward the water heater. The valve is installed between the rigid water line and the water heater. The manual notes that the valve should be within two feet of the water heater to allow the leak sensor to lie flat on the floor. The valve is secured in place using the appropriate fittings.
4. Mount the Control Panel
The control panel should be mounted in an easily accessible location within 30 inches of the Floodstop valves. The user may choose to mount the panel using screws and anchors or the Hook & Loop Mounting Pad included with the system. When using the mounting pad, it is important to apply the adhesive to a clean, dry surface to ensure proper adhesion.
If the distance between the control panel and the valves exceeds the reach of the standard wiring, two extension wires (Model #FSACEXT9) may be needed. These are available where the system was purchased.
5. Connect the Wires
The control panel must be connected to the Floodstop valves using the provided wiring. The wire harness is plugged into the bottom of the control panel, with the contacts facing the user. Two short wires from the control panel are then connected to each Floodstop valve. The arrows on the side of the plugs should be aligned to ensure correct orientation. It does not matter which wire connects to which valve.
6. Test the System
After installation, the system should be tested to ensure it functions properly. The user should open a faucet near the water heater to relieve any remaining water pressure. The system can then be manually tested by pressing the Open and Close buttons on the control panel. If the system does not operate as expected, the connections should be checked and reseated, ensuring that the arrows on the plugs are aligned.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If the Floodstop valve does not operate, the following steps are recommended:
- Unplug the 6-pin connector from the control panel and reconnect it.
- Locate the faulty connection between the control panel and the valve, unplug it, and reconnect it, ensuring the arrows on the side of the plugs are aligned.
- Press the Close button on the control panel and wait a few seconds before pressing the Open button.
For manual operation of the valve:
- Unplug the connection between the control panel and the valve.
- Remove the plastic motor cover from the valve and slide it down the wire until it stops at the plug.
- Use a marker to draw a line across the top of the motor housing to aid in reassembly.
- Remove the four screws using a Phillips head screwdriver.
- Use the thumb and finger to rotate the plastic gear clockwise to open the valve or counterclockwise to close it. Tools should not be used for manual operation.
Warranty and Support
The Floodstop FS34NPT system comes with a one-year limited warranty. To obtain warranty service, users should contact the manufacturer's customer service department at 1-800-888-8312 or via email at [email protected]. The user manual also includes additional safety instructions, warranty information, and FCC rules.
Additional Notes and Recommendations
The manual emphasizes that the system should not be installed on gravel and recommends a small pump to manage any leakage that may occur if the surface is uneven. Additionally, the system is not recommended for use in areas where the wall or ground surface is not flat, as this may affect the performance of the foam gaskets and increase the risk of seepage.
Conclusion
The Floodstop FS34NPT automatic water shut-off system offers a reliable solution for preventing water damage in homes. Proper installation is essential to ensure the system functions effectively. By following the detailed instructions provided in the user manual and ensuring all connections are secure and properly aligned, users can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a functional leak detection system. For those unfamiliar with plumbing or electrical connections, professional assistance is strongly recommended.