Rain Bird FG100 flow sensor for ESP-ME3 irrigation controller

Flow monitoring for the ESP-ME3

The Rain Bird FG100 flow sensor allows you to monitor the actual water flow through your irrigation system. When connected to a Rain Bird ESP-ME3 controller, the system can identify unusually high or low flow conditions and respond to potential irrigation problems at an early stage.

Excessive flow may indicate a broken pipe, damaged irrigation line or broken sprinkler, while unusually low flow can indicate a blockage, closed valve or other system problem. The FG100 helps the ESP-ME3 identify these deviations automatically.

Flo-Watch monitors your irrigation system

The ESP-ME3 uses Rain Bird Flo-Watch functionality with the FG100. During initial setup, the controller learns the normal flow rate of each irrigation station by operating the individual zones and recording their expected flow.

During subsequent irrigation cycles, actual flow can be compared with these learned values. If a significant deviation is detected, the controller can generate a flow alarm and interrupt automatic irrigation for the affected station, helping to reduce water loss and potential property damage.

Connect directly to the ESP-ME3

The FG100 is connected to the ESP-ME3 through a two-wire connection. Wi-Fi is not required for basic local flow monitoring. The ESP-ME3 can communicate directly with the sensor and learn the expected flow of individual irrigation stations.

Rain Bird specifies a wiring distance of up to 152.4 metres using suitable irrigation wire. Shielded cable may be required or recommended in installations where electrical interference is likely.

Remote monitoring with LNK2 and the app

If you also want to monitor your irrigation system remotely, the ESP-ME3 can be equipped with the separately available Rain Bird LNK2 WiFi Module. This connects the controller to Wi-Fi and enables additional flow monitoring and control functions through the Rain Bird App.

The app is available for compatible iOS and Android devices and enables remote internet access when the system is configured accordingly. The LNK2 module is not included with the FG100 and is not required for basic local flow monitoring with the ESP-ME3.

1-inch BSP connection

The European A83928 version of the FG100 uses a 1-inch or 25.4 mm BSP connection. The sensor uses a paddle-wheel impeller with a ceramic shaft and is installed in the main irrigation supply line.

An important installation advantage is that Rain Bird does not require a straight section of pipe immediately before the FG100. This allows the sensor to be installed directly after a master valve, for example, making installation easier where space inside a valve box is limited.

Designed for winterisation

The FG100 is designed for permanent installation in irrigation systems and can remain installed throughout the year. Rain Bird designed the sensor to withstand irrigation system blowouts, eliminating the need to remove the flow sensor before winterisation.

This makes the FG100 suitable for residential automatic irrigation systems as well as smaller commercial installations where reliable flow monitoring is required.

Technical data

• Manufacturer: Rain Bird
• Model: FG100
• European version: A83928
• Product type: Wired flow sensor
• Compatible with Rain Bird ESP-ME3
• A83928 connection: 1" / 25.4 mm BSP
• Sensor technology: Paddle-wheel impeller with ceramic shaft
• Minimum flow: 11.35 l/min
• Maximum recommended flow: 94.63 l/min
• Maximum flow: 132.49 l/min
• Maximum standard irrigation wire distance: 152.4 m
• Body: Plastic
• Length: approx. 235 mm
• Height: approx. 84 mm
• Width: approx. 65 mm
• Flo-Watch functionality with ESP-ME3
• Designed for irrigation system winterisation
• No straight pipe requirement before the sensor
• Remote app monitoring available with optional LNK2 WiFi Module

Frequently asked questions about the FG100

Is the FG100 compatible with the ESP-ME3-230V?

Yes. Rain Bird specifically designed the FG100 for flow monitoring with the ESP-ME3, including international 230V versions of the controller.

What does the FG100 detect?

The sensor measures irrigation water flow. The ESP-ME3 can learn the normal flow rate for individual stations and subsequently identify unusually high or low flow conditions.

Can the system detect a broken irrigation pipe?

A significantly increased flow rate can indicate a broken pipe, damaged irrigation line or broken sprinkler. The ESP-ME3 can identify such deviations and generate a flow alarm.

Do I need the LNK2 WiFi Module to use the FG100?

No. An LNK2 module is not required for basic flow monitoring with the ESP-ME3. Adding LNK2 provides Wi-Fi connectivity, remote access and additional functionality through the Rain Bird App.

Which app is used?

With an ESP-ME3 equipped with the LNK2 WiFi Module, supported flow monitoring functions can be accessed through the Rain Bird App on compatible iOS and Android devices.

What connection size does the FG100 use?

The European A83928 version uses a 1-inch or 25.4 mm BSP connection.

Does the FG100 require straight pipe before the sensor?

No. Rain Bird does not specify a straight-pipe requirement for the FG100, allowing more flexible installation, including directly after a master valve.

Does the FG100 need to be removed during winter?

No. The sensor is designed to remain installed while the irrigation system is properly blown out for winterisation.