Rainwater and Pump Operation
Using a CS Soaker Hose with Rainwater and a Pump
CS Soaker Hoses can be used with rainwater supplied from a rain barrel, water tank, cistern, or storage container. Reliable operation depends on the correct operating pressure, adequate filtration, and proper pump configuration.
Planning Rainwater Irrigation Correctly
Using rainwater is an efficient and resource conscious way to irrigate plants. When rainwater is distributed over longer distances or pumped from a cistern or storage tank, a pump may be required. To ensure consistent performance of the CS Soaker Hose, the operating pressure, pump flow rate, filtration, and hose length must be properly matched.
Pump operation
Important notes on pump operation
A CS Soaker Hose can be operated with a domestic water system or a garden pump. However, it is important to ensure that the pump does not supply excessive pressure or an excessive flow rate to the irrigation system.
Control the Operating Pressure
CS Soaker Hoses must not be operated at excessive pressure. A suitable pressure regulator helps protect the hose, connectors, and accessories.
Protect the Pump
The pump should be equipped with automatic pressure shut off, a suitable pressure tank, or an appropriate control system.
Include a Bypass
A bypass can return excess water to the water source and helps reduce stress on both the pump and the irrigation system.
Match the Pump Flow Rate
The pump output should be matched to the water demand of the connected CS Soaker Hoses.
Test the Complete System
Pressure regulators and pump controls should always be tested with the complete irrigation system connected, not with an open outlet.
Prevent Overheating
If the pump operates against a closed or excessively restricted system, overheating and damage may occur. Proper system protection is therefore essential.
Pump Selection
Which Pump Is Suitable for a CS Soaker Hose?
A pump should not be selected based on its maximum pressure alone. The most important factors are matching the operating pressure and flow rate to the irrigation system. A CS Soaker Hose operates at a significantly lower pressure than most garden pumps are capable of supplying.
For many pressure regulated CS Soaker Hose systems, an operating pressure of approximately 0.69 bar (10 PSI) is recommended. Although the pump itself may be capable of producing much higher pressure, the operating pressure must be reliably controlled using a pressure regulator, an appropriate control system, or a bypass.
- Check the Operating Pressure: The pump must not exceed the maximum permitted operating pressure of the irrigation system.
- Calculate the Flow Rate: The water flow should match the hose length and the expected water output.
- Install a Pressure Regulator: If the pump delivers excessive pressure, pressure regulation is essential.
- Use a Water Filter: Rainwater should be filtered before entering the CS Soaker Hose.
Practical Tip
Viele Gartenpumpen und Hauswasserwerke liefern deutlich mehr Druck als ein Perlschlauch benötigt. Deshalb sollte die Pumpe nicht direkt und unreguliert an den CS Perlschlauch angeschlossen werden.
Clean Irrigation Water Is Essential
Rainwater and cistern water may contain dirt particles, organic matter, and fine suspended solids. These contaminants can clog the fine pores of the CS Soaker Hose and result in uneven water distribution. For this reason, suitable filtration should always be included when using rainwater.
Use at Least a 60 Micron Filter
When using rainwater, a filter with a rating of at least 60 microns is often recommended, depending on the water quality.
Use Finer Filtration for Heavily Contaminated Water
If the water contains visible dirt or very fine particles, an additional finer filter may be required.
Clean the Filter Regularly
Inspect and clean the filter regularly, especially when using cistern water or after extended periods without system operation.
Pressure and Flow Rate
Matching Pressure, Flow Rate, and Hose Length
For consistent irrigation performance, the operating pressure and water flow must be matched to the connected hose length.
| Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Operating Pressure | For many pressure regulated systems, an operating pressure of approximately 0.69 bar (10 PSI) is recommended. The maximum permitted operating pressure of the selected CS Soaker Hose must never be exceeded. |
| Flow Rate | The pump flow rate should match the water demand of the connected hose. Many CS Soaker Hoses deliver approximately 6 to 8 liters per meter per hour. |
| Filtration | When using rainwater, cistern water, or visibly contaminated water, a suitable water filter should always be installed before the CS Soaker Hose. |
| Pressure reducer | When operating with a pump or mains water supply, a suitable pressure regulator is essential to maintain the correct operating pressure. |
| Bypass | A bypass can return excess water to the source and help protect the pump from operating under unfavorable conditions. |
Alternative
Pressureless Irrigation Without a Pump
If you prefer not to use a pump, the CS Soaker Hose Pressureless is a suitable alternative. It operates using gravity fed water supplied from an elevated rain barrel, storage tank, or cistern.
This solution is particularly well suited for smaller irrigation areas, raised beds, flower beds, and greenhouses where a simple and quiet rainwater irrigation system is preferred.
When the Pressureless System Is the Right Choice
- When you do not want to use a pump
- When using rainwater from a rain barrel or storage tank
- When irrigating smaller flower beds or raised beds
- When a simple and quiet irrigation solution is preferred
Tips for Reliable Operation
Pump operated systems and rainwater irrigation provide reliable performance when all system components are properly matched.
Install the Water Filter Before the Soaker Hose
Always install the water filter upstream of the CS Soaker Hose to prevent dirt particles from entering and clogging the hose.
Control the Pump Pressure
Use a suitable pressure regulator or pump control system to ensure the operating pressure remains within the recommended range.
Inspect the System After Installation
After the initial installation, carefully check the water distribution, hose connections, pressure regulator, water filter, and pump to ensure the entire irrigation system is operating correctly.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Rainwater and Pump Operation
Answers to common questions about using CS Soaker Hoses with pumps, rainwater systems, and pressureless irrigation.
Can I use a CS Soaker Hose with a pump?
Yes. A CS Soaker Hose can be operated with a pump, provided that the operating pressure and flow rate are matched to the hose length and the selected CS Soaker Hose model. A pump should never be connected directly without appropriate pressure regulation.
Why do I need a water filter when using rainwater?
Rainwater may contain dirt particles and organic debris that can clog the fine pores of the CS Soaker Hose. A suitable water filter helps reduce this risk and supports consistent water distribution.
Which filter rating is recommended for rainwater?
When using rainwater, a 60 micron filter is often recommended. If the water contains a high level of contamination or very fine particles, a finer filter or a multi stage filtration system may be required.
Which is better: a pump or a pressureless soaker hose?
The best solution depends on the irrigation area, the available water source, and the required irrigation performance. For smaller gardens and raised beds, the CS Soaker Hose Pressureless provides a simple and quiet solution. For longer irrigation runs or larger areas, a pump can be the better choice, provided that the operating pressure and filtration are properly designed.
Plan Your System Correctly
Use Your CS Soaker Hose Reliably with Rainwater
Choose the right water filters, pressure regulators, and CS Soaker Hoses for your water source and irrigation area.