Rainwater and Pump Operation
Operating a CS Soaker Hose with Rainwater and a Pump
Whether you use a rain barrel, rainwater tank or cistern: Learn when a pump is required, how to limit water pressure and what to consider regarding filtration and flow rate.
Making the Most of Your Water Source
When Is a Pump Necessary?
The decision mainly depends on the water level, the available height difference and the water requirements of the irrigation system.
Using Natural Gravity
If the water level in a storage container is sufficiently higher than the Soaker Hose, the CS Soaker Hose Pressureless can operate using the natural water column. An electric pump is not necessarily required.
Filters, supply lines and hose length must be suitable for the low available pressure.
Discover the Pressureless SystemUsing a Pump
If the water level is too low, for example in an underground cistern, or the natural height difference is insufficient, a pump may be required.
Flow rate, pressure regulation, water filtration and pump protection must be properly matched. A direct connection without suitable pressure limitation is not recommended.
Plan Your Pump System CorrectlyThe term “Pressureless” does not mean that water flows without a pressure difference. Gravity-fed operation requires a sufficient water column.
Pump Selection
Which Pump Is Suitable for a CS Soaker Hose?
The actual operating point is crucial: What flow rate can the pump deliver at the pressure required by the filters, pipes, pressure regulation and irrigation runs combined?
A high maximum flow rate stated on the pump’s rating plate alone provides little information about its ability to supply the connected Soaker Hoses. When operating multiple irrigation runs, the total required water flow must be considered.
- Check the pump performance curve and required flow rate
- Account for pressure losses caused by filters, supply lines and elevation differences
- Provide suitable pressure regulation upstream of the CS Soaker Hose
- Match the control system and pump protection to actual operating conditions
Pump System Setup
How Rainwater Reaches the Soaker Hose
The following water flow path illustrates a typical basic setup. The exact order and position of additional components depend on the pump, filter and manufacturer’s instructions.
- Water Storage ContainerRainwater tank or cistern with suitable water extraction
- PumpDelivers water at a suitable pressure and flow rate
- FiltrationMatched to water quality and flow rate
- Pressure RegulationLimits pressure for the respective CS product line
- CS Soaker HoseSupplied through suitable supply lines and distribution components
Consider the Suction and Discharge Sides Separately
Depending on the pump type, an upstream suction filter may be required. It does not automatically replace suitable filtration for the Soaker Hose. Undersized or clogged suction filters can impair pump operation. The suction side must be configured according to the pump manufacturer’s instructions.
Rainwater Quality
Which Filtration Is Suitable for Rainwater?
Rainwater may contain sand, sediment and organic particles. A suitable water filter reduces the risk of deposits and blockages in the irrigation system.
125 µm as a Starting Point
The CS application guidelines specify a 125 µm filter as the standard solution for many water qualities. Whether this is sufficient depends on the actual level of contamination.
Finer Filters When Required
For particularly fine particles, 60 µm or other suitable filtration ratings may be appropriate. Filter selection should be based on water quality and system configuration.
Consider Pressure Loss
Finer or clogged filters increase flow resistance. Particularly in gravity-fed systems, this can result in insufficient water reaching the irrigation system.
Safe Pump Operation
Pressure Regulation and Pump Protection Serve Different Purposes
A pressure reducer protects the downstream irrigation run from excessive pressure, but does not automatically provide the protection required by the pump.
Pressure at the Hose
A suitable pressure reducer maintains the water pressure downstream of the component within the intended range. The inlet pressure, permissible flow rate and performance at low water demand must be compatible.
Prevent Dry Running
A pump must not be operated without sufficient water supply unless it is specifically designed for this. Dry-run protection and water level monitoring must be assessed according to the pump type.
Protect Against a Closed Outlet
A heavily restricted or closed outlet can cause problems for certain pumps. Pressure switches, pressure tanks or other protective measures must be suitable for the pump.
Do Not Install a Bypass by Default
A bypass is only appropriate if it is technically intended for the specific pump and correctly designed. Otherwise, recirculation may cause unwanted heating.
Check All Components
Filter housings, connectors, pressure reducers and supply lines must also operate within their respective permissible pressure ranges. Pump pressure upstream of the pressure reducer may be higher.
Test Under Operating Conditions
With the irrigation runs connected, check pressure, water delivery, pump switching and filter condition. Testing with a completely open outlet can be misleading.
Alternative Without Electricity for Water Pumping
Using Rainwater with the CS Soaker Hose Pressureless
If the water level is sufficiently higher than the irrigation hose, gravity can supply the water. The CS Soaker Hose Pressureless is designed for this purpose.
The key factors are water level, height difference, supply line, filter resistance and installation layout. As the water level drops, the available pressure head decreases.
- Straight installation: up to 25 m of Soaker Hose per run
- Circular installation: up to 50 m of actual installed hose length
- Water supplied at one end only, with the other end sealed using an end plug
- No closed loop supplied with water from both ends
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Rainwater and Pump Operation
Can I Connect a CS Soaker Hose Directly to a Garden Pump?
Only if the entire system, including pressure regulation, flow rate and pump protection, is suitable. An unregulated direct connection is not recommended for many conventional garden pumps.
What Is the Maximum Permissible Water Pressure for a CS Soaker Hose?
A maximum permissible water pressure of 1,5 bar applies to all four CS Soaker Hose product lines. Recommended working pressures are lower, depending on the model. Pressureless is intended for suitable gravity-fed operation.
Is a Pressure Reducer Sufficient to Protect the Pump?
No. It limits pressure on the downstream side but does not automatically protect the pump against dry running, overheating or unsuitable operation at low water demand.
Do I Always Need a 60 µm Water Filter for Rainwater?
No. The appropriate filtration rating depends on the dirt particles, available water flow and permissible pressure loss. The CS application guidelines specify 125 µm as the standard and finer filters when required.
Can an Underground Cistern Be Used Without a Pump?
Only if the water level provides a sufficient height difference relative to the Soaker Hose. When the water level is lower, a pump is normally required to deliver the water.
How Do I Check the Correct Flow Rate?
Compare the expected water delivery of all simultaneously operating irrigation runs with the pump performance curve at the actual operating point. Account for filters, pipes, elevation differences and pressure regulation.
Plan Your CS Irrigation System
Combine Rainwater and CS Soaker Hoses Correctly
Depending on the water source, choose gravity-fed operation or a properly designed pump system. Pressure, flow rate, filtration and hose length must all be compatible when planning your system.