Deployment & Maintenance

Pre-deployment checklist

• Confirm enclosure is IP-rated and use proper cable glands.
• Verify battery has protection PCB and Waveshare charging shows normal status.
• Install inline fuses on PV and battery lines.
• Secure tubing, strainers, and filters to prevent clogging.

Installation steps

1. Mount enclosure and solar panel in a sunny spot with good tilt.
2. Route cables through glands; seal glands after wiring.
3. Place soil sensors at representative depths; avoid compaction.
4. Connect valves and run a manual valve test (10 cycles) and inspect for leaks.
5. Calibrate sensors in-situ and log baseline values.
6. Start with conservative watering thresholds and observe for 1–2 weeks.

Maintenance schedule

• Weekly: inspect filters and sensor readings.
• Monthly: clean panels, verify battery voltage, inspect seals.
• Every 6–12 months: replace filters, inspect tube joints and solenoid operation.

Fail-safes & recovery

• Valve default to closed (NC) on power loss.
• If telemetry is lost for > X hours, system reverts to safe schedule or disabled watering.
• Low-battery shutdown: enter low-power mode and disable watering below a configurable voltage.

TODO: Add real-world deployment photos and a commissioning checklist CSV.

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