In this post, we will go over how to install a Blue White Flow Meter (F-300 model). The pipe length requirements for this flowmeter are roughly half of most other Blue-White flowmeters, making it perfect for systems that don’t have several feet of pipe where you want to measure flow.
Besides its low profile, the F-300 flow meter is full of great features! First, it is simple to use. Compatible with schedule 40 and 80 PVC pipe, and with the ability to measure flow rates from 2 to 10 feet per second (pool industry standard), the F-300 is great for your everyday flow monitoring needs. It also has a durable CNC-machined body for improved accuracy and durability. Continue reading for full instructions on how to install a Blue-White flow meter correctly.
Step 1: Drilling
You will need at least 5X the pipe diameter before the flow meter and 2X the pipe diameter after. For example: 1-1/2” PVC pipe only needs 7-1/2” before and 3” after the spot the F-300 Blue White flow meter is inserted. Measure the pipe and mark the spot you will be installing your flow meter. Using a 5/8” drill bit, drill a hole in the spot between the minimum pipe measurements. (It is recommended to drill a pilot hole before the final hole.)
Step 2: Cleaning
When drilling is done, remove any PVC debris from the pipeline. You do not want PVC pieces clogging up your pipeline. Debris can be removed by flushing water through the pipeline. Next, use a deburring tool to smooth out the hole. You can use a deburring drill attachment or a hand-operated deburring tool. The flow meter will perform best if installed in a clean, smoothly-drilled pipe.
Step 3: Installing
Before installation, check to ensure the system flow direction matches the direction of the arrow printed on the Blue-White F-300 Flow Meter body, at the base of the scale. During installation, ensure the black gasket seal is installed between the flow meter body and the PVC pipe.
The last step of installing a Blue White meter is to tighten clamps evenly on each side of the body. Metal worm gear clamps work well for this application. Once the meter is installed, you will have a way to view system flow rate with zero float bounce, an easy-to-read display, high accuracy, and a stick-free floater.
See our full line of Blue-White Flow Meters.