The WaterCop® Classic System is designed to detect
leaks in your plumbing system at predetermined
locations, and automatically shut o the water supply
to help eectively reduce the chance of major water
damage associated with a leak.
System Components
The WaterCop® Classic System is composed of two
basic parts:
• A motorized ball valve that houses a wireless radio
receiver which automatically turns o your water
supply when any leak sensor detects water or low
temperature sensor detects potential freezing.
• Leak sensors, which detect water from a leak or
overflow, house a wireless radio transmitter that sends
a signal to the WaterCop® to turn o your water supply.
CAUTION!
Pre-Installation Testing of WaterCop®
Manually Test the Valve ............................ 8
Manually Test the Leak Sensors..................... 8
It is strongly recommended that eye protection be
worn while servicing the system. Failure to do so
could result in personal injury.
DO NOT USE EXTENSION CORDS. KEEP FINGERS
AND OBJECTS AWAY FROM THE VALVE.
GENERAL SAFETY
INFORMATION
Do not apply electrical power to the unit unless the
unit is fully assembled. Failure to do so could result in
personal injury and/or damage to the unit. Disconnect
power source before working on or servicing the unit.
Failure to do so could result in personal injury.
Leak sensors constantly monitor their selected areas
for accumulating moisture. When a leak is detected,
a sensor will send a radio frequency signal to the
WaterCop® unit instructing it to shut o the water supply
to the home. The WaterCop® valve will remain closed
until it is manually reset.
The leak sensors are a battery powered device
enabling it to be located anywhere a leak is likely to
occur, or where water might cause damage.
The WaterCop® requires household electrical power
(120 VAC outlet) and will not operate during a power
outage unless receiving auxiliary power from a backup
device such as an uninterruptible power supply
unit (UPS). Additionally, the use of a certified surge
protection device is highly recommended.
The WaterCop® requires household electrical power,
and the provided power adapter must be plugged into
a 120 VAC power source. Do not use an extension cord.
As with all sensitive electric equipment, the use of surge
protection is highly recommended.
The shut-o valve must be installed indoors:
• In the main water line;
• In place of or just downstream from the main water
shut-o valve;
• In a dry location;
• Where it is accessible for checking and resetting
the valve and for resetting the radio receiver code,
if necessary;
• Where the case is protected from use as a step or
from other excessive loads.
Local electrical and plumbing codes should be
consulted to ensure that the installation is in complete
compliance. (See Installation section for details.)
Notice: WaterCop® should be installed downstream of
existing shut-o valves and pressure reducers. Install
18" downstream from existing indoor water meters to
allow for future meter maintenance.
Selection of WaterCop®
Installation Sites
The WaterCop® valve should be installed in the main
water line just downstream from the main shut-o valve
in your home. The front control panel of the WaterCop®
should be easily visible in order to see what position
the valve is in (open/closed). It should also be easily
accessible for resetting after a leak has been detected
and the water supply has been shut o. While the
WaterCop® is completely supported by the piping in
your plumbing system when it is installed, placement of
the valve should ensure that the housing is protected
from use as a step or from other excessive loads.
4
Placement of Wireless Sensors
Each WaterCop® Classic System can support an
unlimited number of wireless leak sensors. Additional
sensors may be added at any time. A sensor consists
of a transmitter (a rectangular box) and a sensor probe
(a small disc at the end of the wire, with two short gold
prongs protruding from one side). Leak sensors should
be placed in locations where leaks are most likely
to occur.
Suggested Locations
• Washing Machines • Toilets
• Dishwashers • Ice Makers/Refrigerators
• Kitchen Sinks • Automatic Humidifiers
• Bathroom Sinks • Water Heaters
• Pipes that are prone to freezing
(freeze sensors are also available)
The transmitter in the leak sensors and the receiver in
the WaterCop® communicate by radio frequency. The
smaller the distance between them, the stronger the
signal will be. The maximum transmission distance is
somewhat dependent upon the building layout and
type of construction, but will be in the 150'-200' range.
The transmitter (attached to the sensor) must be kept
dry. It is NOT splash proof. Sensors should never be
placed outdoors. The sensor probe detects the water
from a leak and is completely waterproof.
Sensor probes should be placed on the floor or in
areas where water would tend to accumulate rapidly
in common leak or overflow situations.
Make sure that any water from a leak will drain
toward the sensor probe, not away from it. Avoid high
trac areas where the cord or sensor could be stepped
on or kicked and where children or pets may disturb it.
The sensor probe should be placed FLAT on the floor
so water can be detected as soon as it begins to
accumulate. The sensor probe should be secured to
the floor. Do not use hook and loop fasteners to secure
sensor to floor as this will raise the probe too high
above the floor. To avoid damage to transmitters and to
provide for the strongest signal possible, the transmitter
portion of the leak sensor should be mounted in a
convenient location (on the wall, in a cabinet, closet,
etc.) two to three feet above the floor. (See Installation
section for details on sensor installation.)
Leak Sensor Battery Life
Fresh, high quality AA alkaline batteries are
recommended. Assuming the sensor has not detected
and transmitted a leak condition (standby mode); high
quality AA alkaline batteries should last between three
to five years.
Sensors will sound an audible “chirp” sound when
batteries are low. Replace batteries when low or during
periodic maintenance to ensure proper power and
function. Re-test each unit in its regular location (see
Installation Manual).
5
Operating the WaterCop®
Classic System
The normal position of the valve is open to allow full flow
throughout the plumbing system. WaterCop® is a full
port ball valve which does not restrict the flow capacity of
your plumbing system. The indicator lights on the face
of the WaterCop® will show the position of the valve.
If the valve is in the closed position (the red light will be
lit), press OPEN and the valve will move to the open
position (green indicator will light).
When water comes in direct contact with a leak sensor,
an RF (radio frequency) signal is transmitted to the
WaterCop® and the valve closes, turning o the water
source to protect the building from additional damage.
The red indicator light will signal that the valve is now
in the closed position, and that you need to check all
areas where you have placed a sensor to determine
what plumbing product caused the system to activate.
The valve will remain closed until the unit is manually
reset on the WaterCop® panel. After the plumbing
problem is fixed, reset the WaterCop® by pressing OPEN
(green circle) on the face of the WaterCop®. Valve will
open and green indicator will be lit. (See illustration.)
Note: If major repairs are needed to correct the
plumbing system, it is recommended that the manual
shut-o valve upstream of the WaterCop® also be
closed during the repairs. Close the main water shut-o
valve and unplug the WaterCop® before making repairs
on the plumbing system.
Note: In case of a power failure, the WaterCop® cannot
operate. If the power is out, you will need to use the
manual shut-o valve to turn the water o in case of an
emergency. When power is restored, the WaterCop®
will remain in its last known position indicated by the
red or green lights on the face of the unit.
WaterCop® Specifications
Actuator
Max. working pressure 125 psig
Ambient temperature 35° to 105° F
Enclosure Polycarbonate
Voltage 12 VDC plus 120 VAC adapter
Current 0.85 Amps (Full Load)
This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses,
and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment
o and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiver;
• Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver;
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
dierent from that to which the receiver is connected;
• Consult the dealer for help.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1. this device may not cause interference;
2. this device must accept any interference, including
interference that may cause undesired operation of
the device.
CAUTION:The user is cautioned that
changes and modification made to the
equipment without the approval of
the manufacturer could void the user’s
authority to operate this equipment.
6
Additional Components
Available for Your WaterCop®
Classic System
Single and Dual Probe WaterCop® Leak Sensors
WCDFS1 (single probe) and WCDFS2 (dual probe)
• Battery or AC (optional) powered
• Transmits wireless signal to valve when moisture
is detected
• Unlimited number can be used, placed anywhere
• 10' sensor cord, white
Low Temperature Sensor
WCDFST
• Monitors temperature of pipes prone to freezing
• Sends wireless signal to turn o water if low
temperature detected
• 10' cord with clip to attach to pipe
• Leak sensor with probe
Water Control Wall Switch
RS100
• Proactively turn water on or o from
convenient location
• Lighted display to valve position (on or o)
• Requires category 5E cabling connection
to valve (see below)
Installation Guide
IMPORTANT!
building, plumbing and electrical codes as they pertain to
the installation of the WaterCop® Classic System is of
utmost importance. Codes in some areas may require that
a licensed plumber be employed to do the installation,
or that the proper permits be obtained prior to any
installation. Even if local codes do not require a licensed
plumber to do the installation, it is necessary that the
installer has a professional level of competence in both
plumbing and electrical skills to perform the installation.
These instructions assume this level of knowledge and
skill. If in doubt, use a licensed professional.
The valve closes with great force. It could cut o a
finger. Keep fingers and other items out of the valve
when testing.
The WaterCop® case is NOT EXPLOSION PROOF.
The shut-o valve must NOT be installed where it
could ignite flammable vapors or explosive mixtures.
To reduce risk of electrical shock, fire, or damage to
property or WaterCop®: Do not use extension cords.
Use of extension cords can cause fires or electric
shock. Install WaterCop® within 20 feet of an outlet or,
install an outlet near the WaterCop®. Comply with
all local codes.
Before opening case, unplug power cord. When
case is open, it is possible to contact electrified
components. Always unplug the power cord before
opening the unit. Wear eye protection for plumbing
and electrical work.
NOTICE: WaterCop® should be installed downstream
of existing shut-o valves and pressure reducers.
Install 18" downstream from existing indoor water
meters to allow for future meter maintenance.
7
Manually Testing the Valve
and Wireless Sensors
Manually Test the Valve
To test your WaterCop® Classic System, gently pull the
safety plugs out from each end of the valve. Check the
position of the valve by looking in either threaded end.
In the open position, you will be able to see through
the valve; in the closed position only the shiny surface
of the ball will be visible. Place the base of the housing
on a sturdy surface, as close as feasibly possible to the
location where it will be permanently installed. Plug
the WaterCop® power cord into a nearby 120 VAC
outlet. The valve position indicator lights should now
correspond to the actual position you noticed: Green =
Open, Red = Closed. Grasp both sides of the housing
(not the valve) with the valve pointing away from you
for safety. Being very careful not to have your fingers
or other objects near the valve openings, press the
colored circle just below the unlit indicator light. You
will hear the motor change the valve position. Again,
look into the threaded end of the valve to verify that the
valve has changed position. If it appears that the valve
has not turned from one position to the other, DO
NOT try to reposition the valve yourself by inserting
any tool or fingers into the valve. Operate the valve
several more times from open to close, checking each
time for proper positioning. If you are experiencing
trouble getting the valve to open and shut, call
800-545-3636.
Manually Test the Leak Sensors
Leak and Temperature sensors require power to
operate. Use either fresh AA alkaline batteries (not
included) and/or a WaterCop® AC Adapter (sold
separately) to power. If both are used, batteries will
provide back-up power in the event AC power is lost.
Rechargeable batteries are not recommended. To install
batteries, remove the battery cover located on the back
of the sensor and install batteries in accordance with
the (+ and -) placement guide. Reinstall the back plate.
Follow suggestions found in the section titled
“Placement of Leak Sensors” for recommendations
where sensors should be placed. Locate a wall near the
area you choose to monitor.
Avoid high trac areas where cord or sensor could be
stepped on or kicked. Mount transmitter at a convenient
location on the wall, two to three feet above the floor.
This will help avoid damage to the sensor and provide a
strong signal. Use provided mounting hardware.
1. Following all safety precautions, make sure that the
WaterCop® is plugged in and the valve is in the OPEN
position. Leave the WaterCop® near your main water
line, on a sturdy surface. It is important that anyone
who will be near the valve is aware of the safety
precautions, and does not insert any object into the
valve, or handle the valve during the test.
2. At one of the locations you have chosen to monitor,
drop the sensor probe (not the mounted transmitter)
into a cup of water. Hold until you hear the sensor
transmit a signal to the WaterCop® (about 5 seconds)
and beep. This test simulates a leak, and lets you
check for interference between the sensor and the
WaterCop®.
3. Take the sensor out of the water and carefully dry o
the sensor and prongs. It should stop beeping.
4. Go back to your WaterCop® and verify that the valve
has closed (the red indicator light will be lit).
5. Keeping all objects away from the valve, reset the
WaterCop® by pushing the green circle below the
OPEN text.
6. Repeat steps 2 through 5 until you have tested each
sensor directly in the locations you wish to monitor.
Troubleshooting
• If the wireless sensor does not close the valve, check
that the sensor has power and batteries and/or AC
adapter is installed correctly. Repeat test.
• If the batteries have power and the wireless sensor
still does not make the valve close, physically remove
it from its installed location and place it next to the
WaterCop® unit. Repeat test. If the sensor operates
properly when it is closer to the Water Control Panel,
but not when it is installed at its remote location, try
moving the sensor to a dierent position or try a
dierent wireless sensor. Some possible causes of
signal reduction are steel construction, foil backed
insulation or other large metallic barriers.
You may also use a range enhancing repeater
(WPR – sold separately) to extend the eective
range of the wireless signals.
• If the unit still does not function properly, check the
digital code settings (see instructions for changing
digital codes).
• If the code matches the code on the WaterCop®
valve, and it still does not function properly, replace
the sensor.
8
Installation of Leak Sensor
Once testing is complete, finish installation of the leak
sensors by unwinding the cord and placing the sensor
probe on the floor at the lowest point (where water
would naturally collect) in the area to be monitored.
Be sure that the sensor is placed FLAT on the floor
so water can be detected as soon as it begins to
accumulate. The sensor should be secured to the floor,
taking care that the metal probes are not covered.
Verify that the transmitter and wire are clear of doors,
drawers, sharp edges, or other hazards that may
cause damage.
Unplug the WaterCop® after the testing is complete.
The WaterCop® can now be installed.
Prior to installation, read all warnings and precautions
carefully.
Sensor placed at a low spot
in the path of water flow where
Water level
it will make contact with sensor.
Probe
Installation Procedure
Check the contents of the carton with the products
listed on the carton label. The shipping package should
contain the following:
• 1 each WaterCop® with power adapter (20' cord)
• 1 each Owner’s Manual/Installation Guide
Note: The package may contain sensors if purchased
as part of kit.
Read Operating Instructions before any installation
is attempted. All sections of this Owner’s Manual/
Installation Guide should be read and completely
understood.
Review Location and Type of Main Supply Line
The main supply line should enter the house in either
the basement or a crawl space beneath the first floor.
The water main shut-o valve is usually located near
where the line comes through the basement wall or just
after the water line enters the living area from the crawl
space. In apartments, townhouses, and manufactured
housing constructions the water main shut-o valve can
usually be found in close proximity to the water heater
installation. The WaterCop® valve should be installed in
the main water line just downstream from the main
shut-o valve in your home. The water supply must be
shut o prior to installation of the WaterCop®.
Choose a dry location to install the WaterCop®. The front
control panel should be easily visible in order to see what
position the valve is in (open/closed) and accessible for
resetting after a leak has been detected and corrected,
and for checking and resetting the radio receiver code if
necessary. Place the valve where the housing is protected
from use as a step or other excessive loads. The shut-o
valve must be installed:
• In the main water line;
• Just downstream from the main water shut-o valve;
• In a dry location (indoors only);
• Where it is accessible for checking and resetting
the valve and for resetting the radio receiver code,
if necessary; and
• Where the case is protected from use as a step or
other excessive loads.
CAUTION:Never use the housing
for leverage when mounting this unit or
tightening fittings. Use a wrench on the
valve flats that are provided.
CAUTION:High heat from soldering or
brazing can damage valve seats or motor
housing. Proper precautions should be
taken to prevent damage from heat when
installing the unit. Remove plastic housing before soldering valve in place.
WARNING:Do not use on fire
sprinkler systems.
9
Additional Part Requirements
Installation of the WaterCop® will require additional
parts. When the main supply line is cut to accommodate
the WaterCop®, new fittings will be needed to connect
the ends of the piping to the WaterCop® valve.
The type of connecting fittings to use will be
determined by the type of existing piping, local
plumbing codes, and “industry standard practices.”
The most common material for water supply lines is
copper. If the WaterCop® is to be installed in a copper
line, you still have a choice of fittings and methods
of installation.
Compression Fittings
The unit can be installed with compression fittings using
common household tools and basic mechanical ability.
You will need:
• two fittings (male pipe thread x compression)
available at most local hardware or plumbing
supply stores;
• Teflon® tape or thread sealant;
• tubing cutter;
• ruler;
• pencil or marker;
• two large adjustable wrenches
Measure the outside diameter of the copper tube and
note the valve size to be sure you purchase the proper
size fittings for the job.
1. Remove nuts and sleeves from compression fittings
and install the fittings into each end of the valve
using Teflon® tape or other thread sealant to ensure
a watertight seal. Hold one wrench on flats of valve
body and use the other to tighten fittings.
2. Measure the distance from end to end of valve
assembly. For ½" tube (/" outside diameter)
subtract ½", for ¾" tube (/" outside diameter)
subtract ¾" from your measurement. This is the
length of the section of tubing to be cut out of the
existing line. The piece of existing tubing to be cut
out is shorter than the measured length so that
tube ends extend into the compression fittings.
3. Select the location for the WaterCop®. Be sure to
consider that you will need access to the front panel
of the control unit. After cutting the section of tube
out of the line, you will need to shift the tube ends
to be able to fit the unit into place. Make sure you
will have access and room to adjust before you cut
the tube.
4. Mark the tube in the location you have selected.
Double check the length and location you marked.
5. Turn water o and drain the system.
6. Use tube cutter to cut copper tube at the
locations you marked. Careful, there will probably
still be some water in the line.
7. Remove any burrs from the tube ends and
clean ends.
8. Install compression nuts and sleeves to each
tube end.
9. Shift tube ends to install WaterCop® valve in line.
10. Position the unit and tighten compression nuts.
Hold the fitting with one wrench while tightening
the nut with the other. Tighten both nuts.
11. Plug unit into a proper power source and turn valve
to open position (OPEN button/green light).
12. Unplug unit, turn water back on and carefully
check for leaks.
13. Tighten fittings if needed to stop any leaks.
14. Plug unit back into power source. Installation
is complete.
Solder Fittings
An alternative method is to solder the unit into the
water line. This method requires a considerably higher
skill level to accomplish the installation properly and
safely. If you are not skilled in this area, it is strongly
recommended that you contact a professional plumber
to do this type of installation.
Electrical Connections
The WaterCop® is supplied with a power adapter (20'
cord) to be plugged into a 120 VAC power source. It is
recommended that the WaterCop® not be plugged into
an extension cord.
Review “Specification” current and power requirements
as not to overload the circuit supplying power.
As with all valuable electronic items; we recommend
plugging the WaterCop® Actuator into a surge
protector.
10
Warnings and Precautions
WARNING!
The motorized drive unit case is not capable of
supporting any loads. Do no attempt to use the unit as
a step. This will cause damage to the unit and could
cause personal injury. Do not store highly flammable
items such as oily rags or other combustibles near
your WaterCop.®
CAUTION!It is recommended that eye
protection be worn while installing or
servicing the system. Failure to do so
could result in personal injury.
CAUTION!Do not use the case as
leverage when mounting this unit or
tightening fittings. Apply wrench to flats
on the valve body to tighten fittings.
Changing Digital Codes
Codes on all control units and transmitters are set at
the factory and should not require alteration. If you use
other wireless products in your home (garage door
openers, etc.), there is a slight chance of interference
with the signal. The following instructions will aid in
resetting the code.
Important Note: All transmitters and the control unit
must have the same code setting!
Changing the Receiver Code
Disconnect power to receiver unit by unplugging
power cord.
1. Remove cover using the 4 screws located in the
corners of the cover.
2. Locate code switch block (see illustration page 12).
Switches are numbered 1 through 8.
3. Arrange the switches in any combination (on or
o position). Write down the code combination
you selected.
Example: 1-on, 2-o, 3-o, 4-on, 5-o, 6-on, 7-o,
and 8-o.
4. Some WaterCop® receivers may have 6 dip
switches. To match codes between 6 and 8 dip
switch units, set switches 1-6 exactly the same on
both units. Switches 7 and 8 must remain in the
“on” or “up” position.
5. Reinstall cover. Carefully tuck wires completely into
case and hold cover in position while tightening
screws.
6. Reconnect power by plugging the power cord into
power receptacle.
Changing the Transmitter Code
1. Remove transmitter cover.
2. Locate code switch block. Switches are numbered
1 through 8.
3. Arrange the switches in the exact combination as
the code that you set in the receiver. It is important
that the same exact code be set in the receiver and
all transmitters. If the codes dier, the unit will not
function properly.
4. Some WaterCop® transmitters may have 6 dip
switches. To match codes between 6 and 8 dip
switch units, set switches 1-6 exactly the same on
both units. Switches 7 and 8 must remain in the
“on” or “up” position.
5. Test each transmitter to ensure that the unit is
functioning properly.
6. If not, verify that all codes are set the same. When
all transmitters are functioning properly, your
WaterCop® Classic System is on duty to help protect
your home from damage due to plumbing leaks.
11
Made in the USA
WaterCop® Interface
Connections
Contacts 5, 6 and 7 are used to control the valve
position from a remote location. The most common is
your home security system control panel.
This is done by wiring these contacts to a control
switch on the panel. The diagram below shows typical
installation options. This control can be a relay, push
buttons or toggle type switch. This control needs to
be a momentary switch, which means that the control
switch stays made or “on” for a short period of time
(1 to 3 seconds) and then returns to a neutral position.
Contacts 2, 3 and 4 are used to signal a remote
device as to the position of the valve. This is done by
connecting a low voltage circuit with indicator lights to
these contacts. The diagram shows a typical installation.
When the valve is in the closed position, contacts 2 and
3 will be made completing the circuit and lighting the
indicator light, showing that the valve is in the normal
open position.
When the valve is in the open position, contacts 3 and
4 will be made completing the circuit and lighting the
indicator light, showing that the valve is closed.
Emergency Procedures
In the unlikely event that the WaterCop® Classic
System should shut o the main water supply and then
become inoperable due to a power outage or damage,
it is possible to manually operate the WaterCop® to
return water service. Unplug the WaterCop® from its
power source. The valve may be manually opened
by removing the clip holding the housing to the valve,
sliding the housing o the valve shaft, and turning the
valve shaft a quarter turn with a screwdriver.
This procedure should only be necessary in
emergencies.