Barn Owl Blog

Maintaining water tank floats is essential for ensuring a consistent and reliable water supply for livestock, gardens, or any other application that requires efficient water management. A well-maintained float system can prevent water wastage, reduce costs, and increase the longevity of your water storage solution. In this article, we'll explore practical maintenance tips for various types of water tank floats, including trough floats, stock tank floats, and livestock tank floats. Understanding Water Tank Floats Before diving into maintenance tips, it's essential to understand what water tank floats are and how they work. Water tank floats, such as trough floats and stock tank floats, are devices that regulate water levels in tanks. They operate through a float valve mechanism that rises and falls with the water level, opening and closing a valve to control the flow of water into the tank. Types of Water Tank Floats Trough Float: Typically used in livestock water troughs, these floats help maintain a constant water level for animals. Stock Tank Float: These are common in both livestock and garden tanks, ensuring a steady water supply. Livestock Water Tank Float: Specifically designed for large tanks, these floats cater to the water needs of cattle, horses, and other livestock. Regular Inspection and Cleaning One of the most crucial aspects of maintaining water tank floats is performing regular inspections and cleaning. Dirt, algae, and debris can accumulate in the tank and around the float valve, affecting its performance. Steps for Inspection and Cleaning Visual Inspection: Regularly check the float system for signs of wear or damage. Look for cracks, rust, or any deformities in the float valve. Cleaning: Remove any debris, algae, or sediment that may have accumulated in the tank or on the float. Use a brush and clean water to scrub the float valve and surrounding areas. Check for Leaks: Inspect the float and valve connections for leaks. Tighten any loose fittings and replace damaged seals. Remote Visual Inspection Incorporating Barn Owl Cameras into your water management system enhances the maintenance and inspection of water tank floats by providing remote monitoring capabilities. This system enables you to perform regular visual inspections without the need for physical presence, ensuring that float mechanisms are functioning correctly and efficiently. Proactive Maintenance By utilizing 24/7 monitoring, the Barn Owl system assists in early detection of potential problems, such as leaks or malfunctions in the float valve. Timely identification enables prompt maintenance actions, reducing the risk of water wastage and ensuring a consistent water supply for agricultural needs. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and extends the lifespan of your water tank components. Integrating the Barn Owl Cameras into your routine maintenance practices not only streamlines the inspection process but also enhances the reliability and efficiency of your water management system.  Adjusting the Water Level Proper water level adjustment is vital for the efficient operation of water tank floats. An incorrect setting can lead to water wastage or inadequate water supply. How to Adjust the Water Level Locate the Adjustment Screw: Most float valves have a screw or bolt that allows you to adjust the water level. This is usually located near the hinge of the float arm. Adjust the Float Arm: Turn the adjustment screw to raise or lower the float arm, which will change the water level in the tank. Ensure the water level is set to an appropriate height for your needs. Test the System: After adjustment, monitor the water level to ensure it maintains the desired height. Make further adjustments if necessary. Seasonal Maintenance Different seasons bring unique challenges for maintaining water tank floats. Here are some seasonal maintenance tips: Winter Prevent Freezing: In colder climates, freezing can damage the float valve and pipes. Insulate pipes and tanks and consider using a tank heater. Check for Ice Buildup: Regularly inspect for ice buildup around the float and valve. Remove any ice to prevent damage. Summer Monitor for Algae Growth: Warm temperatures promote algae growth, which can clog the float valve. Increase the frequency of cleaning during summer months. Inspect for Cracks: Heat can cause expansion and contraction in materials, leading to cracks. Check the float and valve for any signs of damage. Replacing Worn-Out Parts Over time, parts of the float system may wear out and require replacement to ensure proper function. When to Replace Parts Damaged Float: If the float is cracked or filled with water, it should be replaced immediately. Worn Valve: A valve that does not open or close correctly, or shows signs of corrosion, should be replaced to prevent water wastage. Leaking Seals: Replace any seals or gaskets that are worn or damaged to prevent leaks. Choosing the Right Float Valve Selecting the correct float valve for your water tank is crucial for effective water management. Consider the following factors when choosing a float valve: Tank Size: Ensure the float valve is suitable for the size of your tank. A float valve for a large water tank may differ from those used in smaller tanks. Material: Choose a float valve made from durable materials that can withstand the environmental conditions of your location. Flow Rate: Consider the flow rate required for your application. Some float valves offer adjustable flow rates to meet different needs. Conclusion Proper maintenance of water tank floats is essential for ensuring a reliable and efficient water supply. By understanding the types of floats, performing regular inspections and cleaning, adjusting water levels, and replacing worn-out parts, you can extend the life of your float system and prevent water-related issues. Whether you are using a trough float, stock tank float, or livestock float valve, these maintenance tips will help you keep your water system in top condition. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your water tank floats operate efficiently, providing a consistent water supply for your livestock, garden, or other needs. Next up: Benefits of Upgrading Your Water Tank Float

Water tanks are essential for storing water in homes and businesses, providing a reliable water supply during shortages or for irrigation purposes. Whether you're considering a large water tank, a big plastic tank, or a poly water tank, this guide will walk you through the installation process. By following these steps, you can ensure a successful installation and maintain a steady water supply. Understanding Different Types of Water Tanks Before diving into the installation process, it's crucial to understand the various types of water tanks available. From massive water tanks for industrial use to smaller water storage containers for homes, choosing the right tank depends on your needs. Types of Water Tanks Plastic Water Tanks: These are durable, lightweight, and resistant to rust. They are available in various sizes, from big plastic water tanks to huge water tanks for sale. Metal Water Tanks: Often made from steel or aluminum, these tanks are strong and long-lasting. They are ideal for large water storage needs. Concrete Water Tanks: Known for their durability and stability, concrete tanks are suitable for underground installations. Fiberglass Water Tanks: These tanks are lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making them a good choice for above-ground installations. Factors to Consider When selecting a water tank, consider its capacity, material, and intended use. For instance, a large water tank is suitable for agricultural purposes, while a smaller poly water tank might be better for household use. Preparing for Installation Proper preparation is key to a successful water tank installation. Follow these steps to ensure you're ready to install your tank. Site Selection Location: Choose a flat, stable area free from rocks and debris. Ensure the site is accessible for maintenance and close to your water source. Soil Conditions: Check the soil's load-bearing capacity. If the soil is soft or sandy, consider reinforcing it with a concrete base. Permits and Regulations Before installation, check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits. Some areas have specific requirements for water storage tanks, especially large water storage tanks. Tools and Materials Gather the tools and materials needed for installation, including: Shovel and leveling tools Gravel or concrete for the base Plumbing tools and fittings Installing the Water Tank With preparation complete, it's time to install your water tank. Follow these steps for a smooth installation process. Base Preparation Clear the Site: Remove any vegetation, rocks, or debris from the site. Level the Ground: Use leveling tools to ensure the ground is flat. Create a Base: Spread a layer of gravel or pour a concrete slab to provide a stable foundation for the tank. Placing the Tank Position the Tank: With the help of a few people, carefully position the tank on the prepared base. Ensure Stability: Double-check that the tank is stable and level. Adjust the base if necessary. Connecting the Plumbing Inlet and Outlet Connections: Connect the tank's inlet to your water source and the outlet to your distribution system. Use appropriate fittings to prevent leaks. Overflow Pipe: Install an overflow pipe to prevent water from spilling over the top of the tank. Ventilation: Ensure the tank has adequate ventilation to prevent pressure buildup. Maintenance and Safety Tips Regular maintenance is essential to keep your water tank in good working condition. Follow these tips to ensure long-term performance. Safety Precautions Secure the Tank: In areas prone to high winds or earthquakes, secure the tank with straps or anchors. Protect Against Contamination: Ensure that all tank openings are covered to prevent debris and pests from entering. Routine Inspections Check for Leaks: Regularly inspect the tank and fittings for leaks or damage. Clean the Tank: Periodically clean the inside of the tank to prevent algae and sediment buildup. Inspect the Base: Ensure the base remains stable and free from erosion. Integrating the Barn Owl Cameras into your water tank maintenance routine can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of your operations. This comprehensive solution offers a range of features designed to streamline the monitoring and upkeep of your water tanks. Key Features of Barn Owl Cameras for Water Tank Monitoring: Remote Monitoring: Access real-time data on your water tank's status from any location, allowing for timely interventions and informed decision-making. Smart Alerts: Receive customized notifications for specific events, such as low water levels or potential leaks, enabling prompt responses to maintenance needs. Solar-Powered Design: The system operates independently of external power sources, ensuring continuous functionality even in remote areas. Durability: Built to withstand harsh environmental conditions, Barn Owl cameras ensure reliable performance throughout the year. By incorporating this advanced monitoring system into your maintenance practices, you can proactively address issues, reduce downtime, and maintain optimal water quality for your livestock. This proactive approach not only safeguards the health of your animals but also contributes to the overall efficiency and sustainability of your farming operations. For more information and to explore the benefits of the Barn Owl Water Tank Bundle, visit www.barnowl.tech. Investing in this technology is a strategic step toward modernizing your water management practices and ensuring the well-being of your livestock. Troubleshooting Common Issues Even with proper installation and maintenance, issues may arise. Here are some common problems and solutions. Low Water Pressure If you experience low water pressure, check for blockages in the pipes or fittings. Ensure the tank's vent is not obstructed. Leaks Leaks can occur due to faulty connections or damaged tank walls. Inspect the tank and fittings, and replace any damaged parts. Algae Growth Algae growth is common in tanks exposed to sunlight. Consider installing a cover or using an opaque tank to reduce light exposure. Conclusion Installing a water tank is a practical way to ensure a reliable water supply for your home or business. By following this step-by-step guide, you can select the right tank, prepare your site, and successfully install and maintain your water storage system. Remember, regular inspections and maintenance are key to keeping your tank in optimal condition. Whether you're using a big water tank or a smaller plastic water storage tank, these steps will help you achieve a successful installation. With this knowledge, you're ready to tackle your water tank installation project with confidence. Happy installing! Next up: Understanding Water Tank Float Mechanisms 

When it comes to purchasing cameras for remote monitoring and security, you’re often left with having to choose between two different lens types: Standard Angle or Wide Angle. It can be difficult to understand which is the best camera lens for your needs so we’ve created this guide to help make your decision easier. ‍ ---------- ‍ Remote Monitoring: Wide Angle Lens If your primary user case for the camera is monitoring, we recommend a wide angle lens. Wide Angle Lenses are great for inside interiors such as barns and maintenance facilities. Wide angle lenses are also ideal for situations where you want to be able to see more of the surrounding area around a specific asset. A good example are water tanks. Using a wide angle lens around your water tank would provide enough coverage to be able to conduct basic spot checks of the number of cattle and other livestock around the tank. ‍Wide Angle Lens: Benefits Wider field of view to capture more of the surrounding area Easily monitor interior spaces such as Barns and Maintenance Facilities with fewer cameras ‍ Remote Security: Standard Angle Lens If your primary use case is security, then a standard lens is likely the more appropriate camera lens for you. What you lose in field of view (width), you make up for with clarity and details on specific objects. A standard lens can also detect motion from much further away. Oftentimes, we recommend that a user install a standard lens camera and wide angle lens camera side-by-side for optimal monitoring and security coverage.  ‍Standard Angle Lens: Benefits Capture more detail from further distance Motion Detection from further distance ‍ ---------- When considering which camera lens option to go with, you should also consider the DORI Principles. DORI stands for: Detection, Observation, Recognition, and Identification. DORI is a general proximity measurement that provides an easy way to select the best wireless camera for the objects or areas you wish to observe at the level of detail you need. The Image above illustrates what the image will capture within each stage of the DORI measurements.  ‍What does DORI stand for? [D] Detection: At the detection level, an image provides just enough detail to determine if a person, vehicle, or animal is present.  [O] Observation: At the observation level, an image provides some characteristics or details of an animal, individual, or vehicle. Details can include the color of clothing with some details around specific styles of clothing. The Image will also provide some of the surrounding details surrounding the focal area.  [R] Recognition: At the recognition level, an image will provide a high degree of detail. Though not perfect, the details provided at the recognition level will allow a viewer to determine, with confidence, whether or not certain individuals or animals or vehicles have been seen or identified before.  [I] Identify: The identification level is the most accurate, most detailed of the levels. At the identification level, a viewer can easily identify an individual or animal or vehicle beyond a reasonable doubt. ‍ ----------‍ Without going into detail regarding how DORI is calculated, we’ve created the charts below to illustrate how the Barn Owl Cameras align with the DORI measurements. By using this chart, you can find the camera and camera lens that is right for you. To learn more about DORI including understanding wireless camera photos and what impacts photo quality, follow this link. ‍ Click here to view the chart at full size. Wide Angle Cameras from Barn Owl: RangeCam 4G (lens: 100) Standard Angle Cameras from Barn Owl: RangeCam 4G Standard (Lens: 52) RangeCam Mini Standard (Lens: 58) ---------- ‍ Ready to shop for your next camera. Visit the Barn Owl store to find the model that is right for you. ‍ Shop Now ‍

Introduction Could you briefly introduce yourself and your organization? We work under the auspices of the local Audubon Society with about 40 volunteers who are monitoring about 200 nest boxes that have been placed around Washington state. Periodically, they monitor these nesting boxes for birds. Primarily we are interested in American Kestrels and we visit nest boxes four or five times a season. We really wanted monitoring between these visits. Can you give an overview of your research on American Kestrels? What are the main goals and objectives? American Kestrels are the smallest native North American raptor and their numbers are in decline.  If this trend continues they will be placed on the endangered species list. Our goal is to determine what impacts the population and how to reverse this damaging pattern to save the species.   American Kestrel nesting.  Use of Barn Owl Tech Cameras What led you to use Barn Owl cameras in your research? When I was doing the original search at the beginning of last year, I looked up outdoor cameras which had cell capability and external power sources. At the time, Barn Owl was the only result that my internet search provided. What specific features of Barn Owl cameras make them suitable for studying Kestrels? Solar power and cellular reliability, and the ReachCam magnifying lens allows excellent detailed photos. Can you describe how these cameras are set up and used in the field? The cameras are mounted at the top of a nesting box which allows undisturbed monitoring of the nest boxes between volunteer visits.     What kind of data do these cameras provide, and how do you analyze it? Photos of all stages of Kestrel development from egg to adult. This provides valuable information about the nesting habits and behaviors of these birds. We also see what is affecting the nest boxes such as predators and disease.   “We have a number of scientists and world renowned experts on raptors overseeing this project. This provides the perfect laboratory for our studies and we intend to continue for many years. Barn Owl provides real time views, a more complete picture, which is helping our research - and the species.” Discoveries in Kestrel Nesting Behavior What are the previously unknown Kestrel nesting behaviors that your team has discovered? We theorized the food chain impacted Kestrels. Mice and grasshoppers follow food and grain plots, then Kestrels arrive, and then other birds such as woodpeckers create tree hollows. This is where Kestrels nest. We found an area which had plenty of food and adult Kestrels, but no breeding pairs. We determined predatory corvids and raptors would watch the tree hollows and eat the adults. Nest boxes with cameras allow us to keep an eye on breeding pairs, their offspring, and future generations. Another view of an American Kestrel nesting. Future with Barn Owl Would you use Barn Owl for other studies? There are no other studies planned at this time, however our current project has a long term goal and lifespan. We intend to expand with Barn Owl. Conclusion Barn Owl's innovative solutions have been a game-changer, not just for American Kestrel research but for other conservation and agricultural needs. Take the McPhee family, for example—they've been able to expand their farm to 500 acres thanks to Barn Owl's remote monitoring solutions, helping their operations run smoothly. Ranchers are also loving Barn Owl cameras, using them to keep an eye on water tanks and livestock even in the toughest conditions, which helps them manage resources better and take great care of what they care about.     All images courtesy of Stuart Smith.

When setting up your barn camera system, there are a few points to keep in mind. We attempt to address each below. We hope this article will guide and help you make a better, more informed purchasing decision.   Barn Layout and Camera Lens Angle: The layout of your barn will impact the number of cameras you need and determine which cameras and camera lens angles will work best for your operations. For calving and foaling operations, not all barns are the same. Barn layouts change from barn to barn and built in all sizes. Some barns have two rows of calving pens directly across from each other (example A above), others include a row of calving pens and another row for bonding pens (example B above). Others include Calving sheds, group pens, and a drive-through lane. Before purchasing, you should review your barn layout and determine what you hope to accomplish with a Barn Camera System. Count the number of pens you need to monitor, measure the distance between the camera and the pen, and decide if you want cameras monitoring your access points.   Camera Lens: Wide Angle versus Standard Angle Most wireless cameras offer two lens options: standard angle and wide angle. When choosing which lens angle to go with, you need to have a general sense of how far away your cameras will be mounted from the object or area that you hope to monitor. As part of this process, you should also consider the DORI measurements of the camera. For example, the Barn Owl RangeCam Wide Angle Camera has an observation distance of 76 feet. The Barn Owl RangeCam Standard Angle has an observation distance of 147 feet. These observation distances will impact where you position your cameras and how many you will need. — DORI: Detection, Observation, Recognition, Identification. If you’re using your cameras for calving and foaling operations, you most likely want to focus more on the observation and recognition measurements. The detection level will not provide the details you are expect from the camera. To learn more about these measurements, please refer to our guide on DORI principles found here or download our barn owl DORI guide. When shopping for cameras, look closely at how each company promotes the detection levels. At Barn Owl, we focus on observation and recognition. Other companies focus on detection, which, as shown above, will not provide the details you need to make sense of what is happening in the image. — Standard Angle Lens: A standard angle lens is ideal if you want a camera focused on an individual pen (example A) or a pen further away from the camera’s mounting position. Wide Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens is great for viewing large, horizontal distances. Going back to the barn layout (example B), If you have a row of calving pens or bonding pens, using a wide-angle lens will allow you to monitor the row in a single view - up to a certain point. For this to work well - again, thinking about the observation and recognition levels, the pens need to be close to where the camera is mounted. The wide-angle lens can also be a good option for monitoring the points of entry.   Camera Power Sources: The next item to consider is your camera’s power source. When it comes to wireless barn cameras, there are multiple ways to provide power to the camera. If your barn has available power, using the Barn Owl AC Adaptor is your obvious choice. Unfortunately, not all barns have available power sources. Power options to consider:   AC Adaptor: Best As mentioned, the Barn Owl AC Adaptor is your best bet. Again, you will need available power for this to work.   Solar + Battery Pack: Great Solar is a great solution in combination with the battery pack. The Barn Owl solar panels come in different sizes and produce different amounts of energy. For example, our mega panels provide up to 25,000 mAh of power, and our premium panels provide about 8,000 mAh. Combined with the camera battery packs, you can expect several months of uptime without changing your battery pack.   Car Battery: Good Another option is to connect the camera directly to a car battery. Car batteries provide about 48,000 mAh of power (60 times more than the battery bank). Car batteries can be re-charged with a standard generator, and thanks to the low power needs of the camera, you can power multiple devices with a single battery. For those wanting to connect their cameras to a car battery, Barn Owl carries 12V Battery Terminal Connectors that you can purchase separately for each camera. Click here to purchase: 12V Battery Terminal Connectors   Battery Pack: OK Your last resort is to rely solely on the camera’s battery bank. Most cellular cameras use a AA battery bank that provides about 800 mAH of power. If running continually, you could expect about 2-5 months of standby time from the camera. During the busy calving and foaling seasons, it would be worthwhile to find a way to connect a solar panel or spend the extra money to pick up a spare car battery.   System Features:   The last point of consideration are all the features available with the various Barn Camera Systems on the market. In our opinion, If you’re using your Barn Cameras for Cattle and Calving operations, Horse and Foaling operations, or other livestock operations, then there are specific features that should be viewed as table stakes (included) when purchasing.   High Quality photo and video transfers: Not all camera systems allow you to transfer HD images and videos over the cellular network - they require you to pull the SD cards. And if they do allow for the transmission, many times, they will only allow for a select few each month. The health of your cattle and horses during calving and the foaling season is of the utmost importance. Do not risk the health of your animals with low-quality images.   Live On Demand Content: Again, you need to know what is going on in your pens. With Barn Owl Live On Demand, you can trigger photos, multiple burst shots, and videos anytime, day or night, and transmit high-quality, uninterrupted footage. With features such as Livestream, the footage can be truncated, slow, and choppy due to weak network signals. We’ve designed our system to capture the footage first and send it immediately in one file to remove the risk of truncated files or slow to load files.   Real-time Alerts: Real-time alerts are not always included. At Barn Owl, we include unlimited email alerts, and you can configure your camera settings to send you text alerts when criteria are met, such as motion or when specific objects are detected.   Camera Groupings: Camera groupings are important if you have other cameras on your property or have many pens to cover. With Barn Owl camera groupings, you can easily manage all your camera locations without filtering through hundreds of images from multiple cameras spread out over your entire operation.   Ai to monitor points of entry: For barn security, look for remote monitoring systems that include Ai Object Identification for vehicles. Unlike other camera options, Barn Owl Ai is available on every camera we sell, and to help save on costs, you can turn the feature on per camera. This protects you from having to pay for Ai on cameras where it is not needed.   ——   We hope this list helps you with your decision-making process. If you still have questions about what cameras and which configurations are right for you, please schedule a demo with our sales team and we will walk you through how best to set up your barn camera system.    Ready to purchase? Shop the entire lineup of Barn Owl Cameras: Shop Now.