Step-by-Step Guide
When a POC unscheduled flow shutdown occurs, the message displays the following information:
POC Unscheduled Flow Shutdown with the date and time of the event (for example, January 1st, 2021 at 8:30 AM). The priority level is marked as High.
The message indicates that unexpected flow was measured and the flow exceeded the configured limit. As a result, watering has been shut down automatically.
Key details included in the message:
- Control Point – Identifies which control point triggered the shutdown (e.g., Control Point 1)
- Flow BiCoder – Shows the specific flow sensor that detected the issue (e.g., WF-05273)
- Limit versus Value – Displays the configured limit compared to the actual measured flow in gallons per minute (e.g., 15 versus 18.3 GPM)
In this example, the controller expected less than 15 gallons per minute of unscheduled flow, but it actually measured 18.3 GPM, triggering the shutdown.
What Happens During a Shutdown
When an unscheduled flow shutdown is triggered, the master valve closes immediately. This means the affected mainline loses pressurized water, and no water will be supplied to any zones on that mainline until the message is cleared.
For example, if the master valve controlling mainline 1 is closed, mainline 1 becomes isolated and all zones downstream of it will not have water available. However, other mainlines in the system remain unaffected. If your site has a mainline 2, it will continue to operate normally.
Common Causes of Unscheduled Flow
Several conditions can trigger a POC unscheduled flow shutdown:
Water running that the controller doesn't know about: This includes someone using a quick coupler or manually bleeding a valve. Since the controller isn't aware of this intentional water use, it registers as unexpected flow.
Leaks on the mainline: A leak on the affected mainline (such as mainline 1) will cause continuous flow that exceeds the unscheduled flow limit.
Stuck zone valve: A zone valve that fails to close completely will allow water to continue flowing even when no irrigation is scheduled.
Unscheduled flow limit set too low: The configured limit may not account for normal system conditions, causing false alarms when flow is actually within acceptable parameters.
Troubleshooting the Shutdown
To resolve an unscheduled flow shutdown, investigate the following potential issues:
Check for mainline breaks: Inspect the affected mainline for any visible leaks or breaks that could be causing unexpected water flow.
Inspect for stuck valves: Examine zone valves on the affected mainline to determine if any are stuck in the open position and allowing water to flow continuously.
Evaluate the unscheduled flow limit setting: Review whether the configured limit is appropriate for your system. If the limit is set too low, it may need to be adjusted to prevent false shutdowns.
Consider changing to alert-only mode: If frequent shutdowns are problematic, you can opt out of the automatic shutdown feature and receive only an alert when the limit is exceeded. This allows irrigation to continue while you investigate the issue.
Clearing the Message and Resuming Irrigation
Once you have identified and resolved the underlying issue causing the unscheduled flow, clear the message in the controller to resume normal irrigation operations.
After clearing the message, the system will begin irrigating again according to the programmed schedule.
Important Note About Manual Zone Operation
Manual zone operation performed through the controller will not create an unscheduled flow situation. When you manually run a zone using the controller interface, the system is aware of the water flow and will not trigger an unscheduled flow alert or shutdown.
Configuring Unscheduled Flow Settings
The unscheduled flow limit settings are located in the Flow Setup tab under Control Points.
In the configuration screen, you can set the unscheduled flow limit in gallons per minute. For example, you might configure a 15 GPM limit for unscheduled flow.
You also have the option to uncheck the Shutdown setting. When this option is unchecked, the system will only generate an alert when the unscheduled flow limit is exceeded, but it will not automatically shut down irrigation. This allows you to be notified of potential issues while maintaining continuous irrigation operation.
Video Walkthrough
Video originally published July 2021.
If you have questions, here are 3 ways to get answers:
1. Search within this Baseline knowledgebase
2. Visit the Baseline support page
3. Call 866-294-5847 or email support@baselinesystems.com, hours are from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm Eastern Time or 4:00 am to 5:00 pm Pacific Time.