Hello,
I am currently considering how to access fresh water during the upcoming civil engineering works if the cistern runs dry. My current plan is as follows: I will connect the cistern’s pump outlet to an outdoor water tap near the fresh water connection (in the northwest of the property). From this outdoor water tap, I will run two additional outdoor water taps (in the southwest and southeast). If the cistern runs dry, I can simply connect a hose from the external water faucet to the outdoor water tap and turn off the cistern pump. Is there any reason this setup wouldn’t work?
I am still wondering how I could implement a possible future automatic irrigation system with this arrangement. Somehow, the concept doesn’t seem fully thought through to me. Do you have any tips?
I am currently considering how to access fresh water during the upcoming civil engineering works if the cistern runs dry. My current plan is as follows: I will connect the cistern’s pump outlet to an outdoor water tap near the fresh water connection (in the northwest of the property). From this outdoor water tap, I will run two additional outdoor water taps (in the southwest and southeast). If the cistern runs dry, I can simply connect a hose from the external water faucet to the outdoor water tap and turn off the cistern pump. Is there any reason this setup wouldn’t work?
I am still wondering how I could implement a possible future automatic irrigation system with this arrangement. Somehow, the concept doesn’t seem fully thought through to me. Do you have any tips?
Automatic Refill for the Cistern. The pressure and flow from the mains water supply alone are usually not sufficient for automatic irrigation. Alternatively, you can plan the system with this limitation in mind, but it is more expensive and results in longer irrigation times. Therefore, it is preferable to refill the cistern directly, and have the cistern pump supply the system.
OK, an automatic refill is then dependent on the water level, I assume. How is something like that done? Is there a system for it?
I am planning to measure the water level using a 24 V sensor connected to the KNX bus. That means the KNX bus must be able to control a valve for the fresh water supply in some way, right?
I am planning to measure the water level using a 24 V sensor connected to the KNX bus. That means the KNX bus must be able to control a valve for the fresh water supply in some way, right?
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borderpuschl1 Sep 2021 10:32If you have KNX, you can do it like this (I can recommend the tank sensor from Elsner). Alternatively, you can simply use a float switch set to the desired level. There are also valves approved by DVGW that allow you to directly control your fresh water/rainwater system. However, I believe this must be approved by the water supplier.
With KNX, you have many options. From a sensor at your desired height to ultrasonic sensors with a KNX gateway that can also provide you with flow rates, fill levels, and more.
The potable water line to the cistern requires a backflow preventer.
It is usually practical to start refilling when the cistern is half empty. The cistern pump withdraws more water than the potable water line supplies.
Once the level reaches half full again, stop refilling. This way, there is room left for natural rainfall.
The potable water line to the cistern requires a backflow preventer.
It is usually practical to start refilling when the cistern is half empty. The cistern pump withdraws more water than the potable water line supplies.
Once the level reaches half full again, stop refilling. This way, there is room left for natural rainfall.