Rain Bird CPRSDBEX Wired Rain Sensor User Manual

Product Overview

The Rain Bird CPRSDBEX Wired Rain Sensor is designed to automatically shut off your sprinkler system when it rains, conserving water and reducing utility costs. Its robust construction features a high-grade, UV-resistant polymer body and a rugged aluminum latching bracket, ensuring durability in various outdoor conditions. The sensor connects easily to most standard irrigation system timers and controllers.

Key features include flexible rainfall settings, adjustable from 1/8 inch to 3/4 inch with a simple twist of a dial. An adjustable side vent ring facilitates drying of the moisture-sensing disks after rainfall, ensuring accurate operation across diverse climates. The sensor is compatible with low voltage 24VAC control circuits and 24 VAC pump start relay circuits.

Image: Rain Bird CPRSDBEX Wired Rain Sensor with mounting bracket.

Image: The Rain Bird CPRSDBEX sensor installed on a wooden fence, demonstrating typical outdoor placement.

Setup and Installation

The Rain Bird CPRSDBEX rain sensor is designed for straightforward installation. It comes with a rugged aluminum latching bracket and 25 feet of UV-resistant extension wire for flexible placement.

Mounting Location:

• Choose a location that receives unobstructed rainfall, away from eaves, overhangs, or dense foliage that might block rain.
• Ensure the sensor is easily accessible for occasional adjustments and maintenance.
• The included bracket allows for mounting on a wall, fence, or gutter.

Wiring to Controller:

The sensor connects to the sensor terminals on your irrigation system controller. Most controllers have dedicated sensor terminals (often labeled "Sensor," "Rain Sensor," or "SEN").

1. Locate the sensor terminals on your irrigation controller. Refer to your controller's manual for specific wiring instructions.
2. Connect the two wires from the rain sensor to the designated sensor terminals. Polarity is typically not an issue for these connections.
3. If your controller has a "bypass" or "normally closed" jumper wire across the sensor terminals, remove it before connecting the rain sensor.
4. Ensure all connections are secure and protected from moisture.

Note: This sensor is compatible with low voltage 24VAC control circuits. It is not recommended for use with high voltage pump start or pump start relay circuits.

Operating Instructions

The Rain Bird CPRSDBEX rain sensor operates by detecting rainfall and signaling your irrigation controller to pause or cancel scheduled watering cycles. This automatic function helps prevent overwatering and conserves water.

Adjusting Rainfall Settings:

The sensor allows you to set the amount of rainfall required to activate the shut-off function. This is done by twisting the dial on the sensor cap.

• Settings range from 1/8 inch to 3/4 inch of rainfall.
• Turn the dial to align the desired rainfall amount with the indicator mark on the sensor body.
• A lower setting (e.g., 1/8 inch) will cause the system to shut off with less rain, while a higher setting (e.g., 3/4 inch) requires more rain.

Adjusting Drying Time:

The adjustable side vent ring controls the rate at which the moisture-sensing disks dry out. This affects how quickly your irrigation system resumes operation after rainfall has stopped.

• Open the vents for faster drying, allowing the system to resume watering sooner.
• Close the vents for slower drying, keeping the system off for a longer period after rain.
• Adjust this setting based on local climate conditions and soil type to prevent overwatering or underwatering.

Image: Key features of the Rain Bird RSD Series Rain Sensor, including the adjustable rainfall settings and side vent ring.

Maintenance

While the Rain Bird RSD Rain Sensor is largely maintenance-free, occasional cleaning of the fibrous disks is recommended to ensure optimal performance, especially if the sensor is exposed to significant debris or insects.

Routine Cleaning Procedure:

1. Note Current Setting: Before disassembly, observe and note the current rainfall setting on the sensor dial cap so you can reset it accurately after cleaning.
2. Remove Dial Cap: Turn the dial cap in a counter-clockwise direction. While turning, press the release tab on the sensor body to separate the cap from the main body.
3. Remove Plunger and Disks: Carefully remove the plunger and the fibrous disks from inside the cap.
4. Clean Parts: Gently wash the plunger, disks, and the inside of the cap with clean water to remove any accumulated debris, dirt, or insects. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
5. Reinstall Parts: Once clean, reinstall the plunger and disks back into the cap.
6. Reattach Cap: Screw the cap back onto the sensor body, ensuring it is securely fastened.
7. Reset Rainfall Setting: Adjust the dial cap back to your previously noted rainfall setting.

For a visual guide on routine cleaning, please watch the official product video below:

Troubleshooting

If your Rain Bird CPRSDBEX rain sensor is not functioning as expected, consider the following common issues and solutions:

• System Waters During Rain:
  • Check wiring connections at both the sensor and the controller. Ensure they are secure and correct.
  • Verify that the sensor is enabled in your irrigation controller's settings. Some controllers have a bypass switch or setting.
  • Inspect the fibrous disks inside the sensor. They might be dirty or compacted, preventing proper absorption. Clean them as described in the Maintenance section.
  • Ensure the sensor is mounted in an area that receives direct rainfall and is not obstructed.
• System Does Not Resume After Rain:
  • Check the side vent ring setting. If vents are too closed, the disks will dry slowly. Open them slightly to allow faster drying.
  • Ensure the sensor is not in a shaded or poorly ventilated area, which can hinder drying.
  • Verify that the sensor disks are not permanently saturated or damaged.
• Sensor Appears Damaged:
  • Inspect the sensor body and bracket for any physical damage.
  • Check the wiring for cuts or fraying.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, consult the full user manual or contact Rain Bird customer support.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information and comprehensive support, please refer to the official user manual provided by Rain Bird. This manual contains specific terms, conditions, and contact information for customer service.

You can access the full user manual in PDF format via the following link:

Download Full User Manual (PDF)

For further assistance, you may also visit the official Rain Bird website or contact their customer support directly.