1. Introduction
The FlowVis FV-J-R is a retrofit flow meter with an integrated check valve designed for installation into existing 2-inch and 2.5-inch Jandy valve bodies. This device provides accurate measurement of water flow in Gallons Per Minute (GPM) and prevents backflow in your pool or spa plumbing system. It is engineered for ease of installation and reliable performance.
Image: The FlowVis FV-J-R Retrofit Flow Meter, showing its clear housing and GPM scale for 2.0" and 2.5" pipes.
2. Features
- Installation flexibility: Installs horizontally, vertically, or even upside-down.
- High accuracy: ≥98.1% accuracy.
- NSF 50 certified models available.
- Doubles as a check valve (1.5", 2", and 2.5" models).
- Certified for outdoor use.
- Clear, easy-to-read scale in GPM.
- Quick and easy installation with no calibration required.
- 15-year design life.
- Manufactured in the USA.
- Installs in Jandy check valve body.
3. Setup and Installation
The FlowVis FV-J-R is designed for straightforward installation into existing Jandy valve bodies. No complex tools or calibration are typically required.
3.1. General Installation Guidelines
- The flow meter can be installed in various orientations: horizontally, vertically, or even upside-down.
- For optimal accuracy, ensure a straight pipe run before and after the flow meter. A general guideline is to have at least five times the pipe diameter of straight pipe before the meter and two times the pipe diameter after any bends or fittings.
- The unit includes a gasket to ensure a watertight seal.
3.2. Installation Steps (Retrofit)
- Turn off the pool/spa pump and ensure all power to the system is disconnected.
- Locate the existing 2" or 2.5" Jandy valve body where the flow meter will be installed.
- Carefully remove the existing components from the Jandy valve body as per Jandy's instructions.
- Insert the FlowVis FV-J-R into the valve body, ensuring the flow arrow on the meter aligns with the direction of water flow.
- Secure the flow meter in place using the provided hardware (e.g., stainless steel screws and clamps) and ensure the gasket creates a tight seal.
- Once installed, slowly restore power and turn on the pump, checking for any leaks.
3.3. Visual Guide: Flow Meter Explanation
Video: An animated explanation of the FlowVis flow meter's internal mechanism and how it measures flow rate. It demonstrates the flapper angle's proportionality to flow rate, corrosion-resistant components, NSF 50 certification, installation flexibility (horizontal, vertical, upside-down), and available models for various pipe sizes.
4. Operating Instructions
The FlowVis FV-J-R provides a direct reading of water flow in GPM. Understanding how to read the scale is essential for monitoring your pool or spa system's performance.
4.1. Reading the GPM Scale
- The FlowVis features a clear housing with a visible red flapper and a dual GPM scale.
- One side of the scale is for 2.0" pipes, and the other is for 2.5" pipes. Ensure you read the correct scale for your pipe size.
- The red flapper inside the meter will move in response to water flow. The top edge of the red flapper indicates the current GPM.
- For accurate readings, view the scale at eye level to avoid parallax error.
4.2. Check Valve Functionality
The integrated check valve prevents water from flowing backward through the system when the pump is off. This is particularly useful for systems with solar heaters or other components that require unidirectional flow.
Video: A demonstration of a 2-inch Jandy check valve in a pool plumbing system. The video shows the internal gate mechanism closing when water flow stops, preventing backflow, and opening when flow resumes. It highlights the clear sight glass for visual confirmation of water movement.
5. Maintenance
The FlowVis FV-J-R is designed for a 15-year design life with minimal maintenance. Regular inspection is recommended to ensure continued optimal performance.
- Visual Inspection: Periodically check the clear housing for any signs of cracks, discoloration, or debris accumulation that might obstruct the flapper or scale.
- Seal Integrity: Inspect the area around the installation for any leaks. If leaks are detected, ensure the clamps and gasket are properly seated and tightened.
- Internal Cleaning: If debris is observed inside the meter affecting the flapper's movement or visibility of the scale, the cover can be removed by unscrewing the eight stainless steel screws. Clean the internal components carefully and reassemble, ensuring the gasket is correctly positioned for a watertight seal.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your FlowVis FV-J-R, consider the following:
- Inaccurate Readings:
- Verify that the flow meter is installed with sufficient straight pipe run before and after (5x and 2x pipe diameter, respectively).
- Check for any debris obstructing the flapper's movement.
- Ensure you are reading the correct scale (2.0" or 2.5") and viewing it at eye level.
- No Flow Indication:
- Confirm the pump is running and water is flowing through the pipe.
- Check for blockages in the plumbing system.
- Inspect the flapper for any damage or obstruction preventing its movement.
- Leaks:
- Ensure all connections are tight and the gasket is properly seated.
- Inspect the housing for any cracks.
7. Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 5 x 5 x 5 inches |
| Item Model Number | FV-J-R |
| Manufacturer | H2Flow Controls, Inc. |
| Accuracy | ≥98.1% |
| Design Life | 15 years |
8. Warranty and Support
The FlowVis FV-J-R comes with a 3-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind regarding its quality and performance. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or warranty claims, please contact H2Flow Controls, Inc. directly or refer to their official website for contact information.
