---
title: "Pre-Season Checks"
canonical: "https://farmconnect.docs.rubiconwater.com/space/FCKB/2085093377/Pre-Season%20Checks"
format: markdown
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> Macro (toc)

Your FarmConnect system has been designed to be low maintenance but a few simple checks before the start of your irrigation season will ensure a worry-free irrigation season. 

Any deviation from Rubicon approved procedures and materials may be detrimental to the integrity of your system and could void the product’s warranty. Any change or modification to this procedure and or materials specified without written permission from Rubicon engineers could also void the product’s warranty. Please contact the FarmConnect service centre if you require any further assistance.

# Safety

> ℹ️ **Note**
> ℹ️ 
> ℹ️ Ensure all gates and electric fences are left the way they were found.

## Hazards

> ℹ️ **Extreme Weather**
> ℹ️ 
> ℹ️ - Be aware of expected weather conditions and wear suitable clothing.
> ℹ️ - In hot weather, take sunscreen and adequate drinking water. Watch your companions for signs of dehydration.
> ℹ️ - In cold weather, wear warm clothing and carry chains for vehicles.

> ℹ️ **Working in Isolation**
> ℹ️ 
> ℹ️ - Used approved manual lifting procedures or use suitable lifting gear and mechanical aids for heavy loads.
> ℹ️ - Watch out for snakes and biting insects when lifting equipment or removing covers.
> ℹ️ - Carry a first aid kit.
> ℹ️ - Carry an EpiPen in the case of allergies.

> ℹ️ **Falling**
> ℹ️ 
> ℹ️ - Use fall prevention devices such as guard rails and harnesses.
> ℹ️ - Follow approved safety procedures when working with ladders or elevated platforms.

> ℹ️ **Slippery and Uneven Terrain**
> ℹ️ 
> ℹ️ - Wear slip resistant footwear.
> ℹ️ - Keep access ways clear.

> ℹ️ **Equipment and Tools**
> ℹ️ 
> ℹ️ - Secure loose clothing and long hair.
> ℹ️ - Ensure safety guards are fitted to power tools.
> ℹ️ - Wear appropriate safety gear such as goggles, earmuffs, and respirator.
> ℹ️ - Watch for pinch points when moving or adjusting equipment.

## Safety Equipment

- Steel toed boots
- Goggles
- Eye wash
- Leather gloves
- Wide brimmed hat, sunscreen
- Protective hi-viz clothing
- Personal flotation device.

# Tools and Equipment

- 3mm and 4mm Allen keys
- Cloth
- Compass
- Soapy water

# Maintenance Tasks

## Check Solar Panels

- Please keep solar panels clean by wiping them with a cloth and soapy water.
- Make sure that the solar panel is facing north in the Southern hemisphere and south in the Northern hemisphere.
- (For iBee radio nodes) Check that the solar panel angle is at the default setting of 55 degrees.
- Make sure that solar panels are not shaded by vegetation or fauna.

> ℹ️ **Note**
> ℹ️ 
> ℹ️ If shading is unavoidable, consider using a 20 Watt panel.

## Check Antennas

- Make sure that the antenna is connected properly to the radio.
- Check for cracks or any bird damage to the antenna.
- Ensure that the black plug is installed at the top of the antenna.

## Clear Debris and Sediment

### BayDrive

- Clean Sediment build-up from in front and behind the rubber flap.
- Ensure that the flap has full range of motion.
- Remove any debris that maybe tangled around the actuator arm.

### BladeValve/RiserDrive

Remove all weeds/grass that might compromise the sealing ability of the BladeValve or riser.

## Check Alarms

- Check all alarms and ensure they will not impact on your irrigation season.
- Check that all battery voltages are acceptable. They should be in the range of 12-14 volts. See [https://rubiconwater.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/FCKB/pages/2083028993](https://rubiconwater.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/FCKB/pages/2083028993) for more details.

## Run a Test Program

Create a simple test program to open and close all outlets. Allow enough time to for the outlet to open and close before moving onto the next outlet. See [https://rubiconwater.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/FCD/pages/2063761542](https://rubiconwater.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/FCD/pages/2063761542) for details of how to create Irrigation Programs.

![image](media://0a046c5c-045f-406f-9d8e-a5bad5157f52)

*Typical test program*

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