Automatic Watering system Troubleshooting Guide

Automatic Watering System set up in an EarthBox Original gardening system

There are many factors to consider when experiencing any problems with your EarthBox® Automatic Watering System—where you live, how long you've used your Automatic Watering System, and how well your AWS has been maintained—all factor in to the lifespan of the product, and how well it will work. As would be expected with any mechanical product, you may experience some minor issues after usage. Below is a troubleshooting guide to help you restore proper functionality of your AWS.

 

PROBLEM SOLUTION

1. The EarthBox® overflow drain is leaking/overflowing
  • You have the wrong size water fill tube
    • Check to make sure the water fill tube only sticks up 1½ inches above the top edge/rim of the EarthBox® container.
    • 1st generation water fill tubes are too long and will need to be replaced with 2nd generation water fill tubes that measure 12 inches long. All 1st generation fill tubes have a rolled rim and are longer than 12 inches.
    • If you're using an EarthBox® Junior, you will need to replace the water fill tube with an EarthBox® Original water fill tube that measures 12 inches long.
    • If you're using an EarthBox® Root & Veg, you need to use the water fill tube that came with the box, and purchase the AWS designed specially for the Root & Veg.

  • The water fill tube is not situated properly
    • Carefully remove the sensor from the fill tube and place it in a clear cup, holding it upright in place. If it eventually stops dripping water after it fills enough, then the AWS is working and your water fill tube may not be situated correctly.
      • Original and Junior gardening systems: water fill tubes should be pushed all the way to the bottom of the box into the water reservoir. They should lean to the outer corner of the box, NOT sit completely upright.
      • Root & Veg gardening systems: water fill tubes should NOT be pushed through the aeration screen to the bottom of the box into the reservoir. They should lean to the outer corner of the box, NOT sit completely upright.

  • The water spigot is turned too high
    • Be sure you only turn the spigot a quarter-turn when turning on the water. Having it turned on full blast may strain the system and cause damage to the internal parts of the Pressure Regulator.

  • Plant roots may be taking up too much space in the water reservoir
    • The roots may be clogging the reservoir. Try reaching into the overflow drain and pulling out any roots that are hanging out and are easily removable.

  • The boxes are not level
    • Make sure each EarthBox® is on level ground. If the box is sloped or lopsided, this can interfere with the sensors accurately reading the water level.

  • There is a clog in the water fill tube
    • Remove the sensor and look down into the tube, using a flashlight if needed. Sometimes frogs and other critters can get in there and block or move the sensor.

2. The EarthBox® isn't getting any water
  • The Sensor is not dripping any water
    • Swap the non-working Sensor with one that is functioning properly. This will determine if the sensor is malfunctioning or if there is a problem with the box.
    • If the Sensor does not work when swapped, it may have debris lodged inside, causing it to malfunction.
    • Double-check the Sensor functionality by removing it from the fill tube and placing it in a clear cup, holding it upright in place. Check the clear tube to make sure there is no debris inside.
      • If the Sensor is still not dripping any water into the cup then there is a malfunction. Remove the screws from the Sensor and carefully separate the head, paying attention to which way the rubber diaphragm is facing. You may notice debris such as dust, dirt, and even spider webs inside. Clean the parts and reassemble the Sensor head. Repeat the cup test.
      • If the Sensor is dripping water and eventually stops after it fills enough, then the AWS is working.
      • If it continues to fill and eventually overflows the cup, there is a malfunction. Remove the screws from the Sensor and carefully separate the head, paying attention to which way the rubber diaphragm is facing. You may notice debris such as dust, dirt, and even spider webs inside. Clean the parts and reassemble the Sensor head. Repeat the cup test.
    • If the Sensor swap determines that it does actually work, then there is a problem with the EarthBox®
      • Make sure the EarthBox® is level so that the Sensor can read the water level accurately.
  • The Sensor is dripping water, but the reservoir is empty
    • Certain types of plants—such as some indeterminate tomato varieties—may take water faster than the AWS can provide.
      • You may have to manually fill the reservoir if your plants are stressed.
      • Always check daily weather predictions and have a plan to provide adequate shade to stressed plants if you notice they look wilted or are drooping during the day.
3. The AWS Pressure Regulator isn't working
  • Check to make sure the spigot is hooked up and turned on

  • Check to make sure the spigot is located higher above the EarthBox®
    • If you run a hose along the ground and hook up the Regulator to the end of the hose, it will be very difficult for the water to pump up to the boxes rather than flow downward.
    • If this isn't possible, then we recommend mounting the pressure regulator so that it is at least at the same height (or higher) as the sensor you place in the water fill tube.

  • Check to make sure you are using a water source with enough pressure
    • Rain barrels and other standing vessels don't provide enough pressure on their own.

  • The filter/screen might be clogged
    • This is common if you have well water, hard water, or soft water. Carefully remove the Regulator from the spigot and pull out the filter.
    • Take a toothbrush or small wire brush and lightly clean the screen if you notice any mineral buildup. Installing a home filtration system can help mitigate mineral buildup.

Automatic Watering System Assembly Tips and Tricks

If you're having trouble assembling the tubing & connectors, please try the following methods:

  • Use a non-petroleum-based product, such as silicone grease, to make it easier to assemble.
    • DO NOT use petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline®) or other oils.
  • Use a heat source like a lighter or heat gun on the ends of the tubing to soften it up before pushing it onto the connectors.
    • Tip: If you don't have one of those, try pouring or soaking the end of the tubing in hot water.
  • Use latex or nitrile gloves for added grip to push the tubing onto the connectors.

Automatic Watering System Set Up Diagrams

Below is a diagram of setting up the EarthBox® Automatic Watering System 2 ways:

If you have more than one box and want even more water efficiency, here is a YouTube video for setting up multiple systems.

Automatic Watering System Proper Care & Storage

Your Automatic Watering System should be stored indoors over the colder months. Inside storage can help prevent residual water from freezing inside small parts, which can cause cracking.

TO STORE: Shut off water at the source and remove the Pressure Regulator. Inspect the filter screen for debris and clean as needed with a small brush.

Next, remove all the Sensors from the Water Fill Tubes and carefully clean any visible debris from the outside of the Sensor head. If you have your EarthBox® gardening systems set up in a specific way, you may want to label each Sensor with the corresponding box for easier set-up during the next growing season.

Without removing any of the tubing, carefully roll the system up so that it can fit into a large bag or plastic storage bin of your choice.

As you gather and roll the system, gently shake the tubing and Sensors to remove any residual water. Twist ties or zip ties can help secure the roll so that it does not unravel. Place your Automatic Watering System inside the bag or bin, and store indoors in a shed, garage, basement, or closet.

Failure to properly care for, maintain, and remove the Automatic Watering System from freezing temperatures may result in breakage or malfunction of the system.

Automatic Watering System Replacement Parts

If you need any replacement parts for the EarthBox AWS, you can find them under our Replacement Parts section.

EarthBox® AWS

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