FAQs and Support
Why Do I Need a First- Flush Filter?
A first flush filter prevents pollution entering the rainwater tank. This prevents sediment and pollution from building up in the rainwater tank. Pollution and sediment in the tank can create a number of potential problems ranging from wear and tear on pumps and appliances to hazardous health issues from bird droppings and rotting leaves.
Are there distributors in Canada or USA?
We don’t currently have any outlets in Canada or USA. The Superhead fits 90mm (OD) pipe, while 3 inch pipe has a outside diameter of 88.9mm. It is a close fit and can be sealed with silicone, or if you can source 90mm pipe then it will also fit. We are working on a model to fit imperial sizes and hope to sell then in North America soon. Unfortunately shipping is quite expensive at around $50 per unit, but if you are interested then please contact us for international pricing
Does it fit USA pipe sizes?
Yes. Australia uses 90mm (outside diameter) pipe for stormwater. USA uses 3″ pipe which has an outside diameter of 88.9mm. It is a very close fit and the fittings are tapered to fit the smaller pipe size. It can easily be sealed with pipe cement or silicone. It is not high pressure so the slight size variation is not a problem
How Does Superhead Work?
It is best to watch the video to see how it works, but here is the basic explanation: When it first starts to rain, water contaminated with leaves, dust, bacteria, salt and other pollution is washed off the roof and into your downpipes. The Superhead is positioned between the rainwater tank and the gutters so instead of the contaminated water entering the rainwater tank, it fills the flush pipe. After about 20- 30 litres of water has been flushed off the roof it should be clean (depending on the roof size). The water will then automatically divert into the rainwater tank. The flush pipe slowly empties so it is ready for next time it rains.
How much does it cost?
The Superhead costs around $70. You will also need to buy a length of PVC pipe to create the flush pipe and connect to the Rainwater Tank. Buying the various components invidividually will cost over $100
What is a Rain Head and First- Flush Filter
A rain head is a device which is positioned on the top of downpipes to stop leaves and large debris clogging up the stormwater system. A first- flush is a filtration device which filters smaller debris from the rainwater harvesting system by discarding a preset amount of water when it first starts to rain. When the flush has been done the water is diverted into the rainwater tank The Superhead combines both devices into one simple and compact design.
Where can I buy it?
Superhead is available from all Reece stores and other good rainwater stores. Please reference product code SH-01 Please visit the Store Locator to find your local agent
How does it fit together?
Please see the Superhead page for an assembly diagram.
What is size first- flush pipe do I need?
The volume will depend on the length of the pipe. 90mm pipe has a volume of 7 litres per metre. A larger diameter pipe can be used to increase the flush volume with the use of adapters. The flush volume can also be changed using the adjustable valve at the bottom of the first- flush pipe. For large roofs we recommend installing a Superhead on each downpipe to ensure an adequate first flush.
How do I increase or modify the flush volume?
Please see above
How do I connect it to standard reticulation fittings?
The adjustable drain can be replaced with standard reticulation fittings so that the flush water can be piped to a different location. To do this you will need the following fittings: length of 19mm pipe (or adapters to reduce to the desired size) 19mm male screw- barb (male screw on one end- barb fitting on the other) 19mm valve ( a cheap one will do and is available in most reticulation sections/ stores) Method: Remove the adjustable plug and insert the male screw- barb fitting. Attach a length of 19mm pipe to the barbed end of the fitting. Cut the pipe to the desired length and attach the valve to the end of the pipe. Calibration: Close the valve and fill the flush pipe with some water (or wait until it rains). OPen the valve gradually until it drips a few times per second. Maintenance: There is an increased chance that the valve will become clogged with fine debris from the flush pipe so care should be taken to check that the valve is dripping and emptying the flush pipe after it rains. If not, open the valve and allow the water to flush any blockage and then close it to the correct position again.
How do I clean and maintain it?
The unit needs very little maintenance but it is important to check it occasionally to make sure the flush pipe is draining. Over time dirt will build up in the flush pipe and can eventually block the drain. To remove any build up, simply unscrew the drainage plug completely and allow the water pressure to clear any dirt. The insect screen is self- cleaning and should be automatically cleaned when rain enters the device. If it does become blocked for some reason simply unscrew the leaf screen to access the insect filter. The insect screen is loose If the insect screen seems loose it can be overcome in a number of ways: – Push the screen in so it fits tightly against the ridge in the outlet pipe. – Drill a small hole and use one of the stainless steel screws to hold it in place – Use a small amount of silicone to fix it in place. If a lot of silicone is used it can make it difficult to remove the screen later should you need to clean it. A small amount should be fine to keep it in position but still allow it be removed at a later date.