Products
Here you will find all the answers to frequently asked questions about the Tropf-Blumat system and its various components, the Blumat Classic Houseplant, and the Blumat Easy Bottle Adapter. If you can't find the information you're looking for, please send us an email.
What is the difference between Tropf-Blumat and time-controlled systems?
In time-controlled systems, a computer controls the water release, always dispensing a preset amount of water at a specific time. Therefore, no account is taken of the peculiarities of the location (sunlight exposure, soil moisture) or the individual water requirements of different plants. Tropf-Blumat reacts solely to the moisture content of the soil and therefore provides water as needed.
Do I need to close the tap when it’s raining?
No, always keep the water supply open. If the plant is sufficiently watered by rainwater, Tropf-Blumat will not dispense water.
What happens if the water supply is interrupted?
Initially, nothing will happen. Only with a prolonged interruption of the water supply, the roots could potentially draw all the water from the sensor, allowing air to enter and preventing the valve from opening. In such a case, simply refill the Tropf-Blumat.
Is Tropf-Blumat suitable for watering the lawn?
No, Tropf-Blumat is designed for spot drip irrigation. For watering the lawn, you need surface irrigation methods such as oscillating sprinklers, rotating sprinklers, etc.
Can I water vegetables, fruit, and herbs with Tropf-Blumat?
Yes, the Tropf-Blumat system can be used without worries for the irrigation of fruits, herbs, and vegetables. All water-carrying parts have been tested according to the standards of the Austrian Drinking Water Regulations, and all limit values are undercut. All Tropf-Blumat products are free of BPA and phthalates.
Are Tropf-Blumat products suitable for drinking water?
Tropf-Blumat products have been tested according to the standards of the Austrian Drinking Water Regulations, and all limit values were undercut. However, the products are intended for the watering of plants and not for the transport of drinking water. They are not certified for this application.
No water comes out of my new Tropf-Blumat, even when I completely loosen the adjustment screw.
The Tropf-Blumat is delivered closed. If it has been on the shelf for an extended period, the drip hose under and around the adjustment screw may stick. Pull the hose out and knead the stuck part briefly.
After cold nights in autumn, dripping doesn’t as quickly as normal.
At temperatures around 5 degrees Celsius, the membrane of the Tropf-Blumat becomes harder and therefore closes more slowly. Turn the adjustment screw 2 - 3 marked arrows to the closed position.
Do I have to disassemble the pressure reducer in winter?
Yes, the pressure reducer should be unscrewed before the first frost.
Do I have to disassemble the supply hoses in winter?
No, the hoses can remain outside during the winter.
Do I have to disassemble the Tropf-Blumat sensors in winter?
The Tropf-Blumat sensors can remain in the ground during winter. If the water supply is interrupted, they will drain and thus be protected against frost. However, we recommend taking the sensors out of the ground in winter, cleaning them, and storing them in a dry and dark place. This helps extend their lifespan.
Do I need to disassemble the Tropf-Blumat Maxi sensors in winter?
The Tropf-Blumat Maxi is sometimes surrounded by roots to an extent that makes it difficult to remove. Therefore, it is built so robustly that it does not need to be disassembled in winter. Interrupt the water supply and remove the head of the Blumat until little or no water is visible in the sleeve. Then, screw the head back on tightly to prevent dirt from entering. However, if the Maxi is easy to remove, we recommend cleaning it thoroughly and storing it in a dry and dark place, like the regular Tropf-Blumat.
Why should I use a pressure reducer?
The Tropf-Blumat system is designed for a maximum water pressure of 1.3 bar. If the pressure increases, there is a risk that the hoses will disconnect from the connectors.
How tightly should I attach the pressure reducer?
Tighten the pressure reducer securely by hand. Under no circumstances use a pipe wrench or other tools, as this could damage the threads.
What should I do if the connection between the water tap and pressure reducer is leaking.
In that case, the rubber sealing ring of the dirt filter is most likely brittle. Replace the filter gasket with a new one, available as an original accessory. However, any suitable filter gasket, available at any plumbing supply store, can also be used. Never force or tighten the pressure reducer with a tool, as this could damage the plastic threads. Also, check whether the support surface for the filter gasket on your water tap is not corroded, scaled, or scratched.
Does the pressure reducer need to be connected in a specific position?
No, the pressure reducer can be mounted in any desired position, and the 8mm branch can also be directed upwards or sideways.
How large should my tank be?
This depends on the number of plants, the water needs of your plants, and how long you want to go without refilling the tank.
What material should the tank be made of?
The material is not crucial. It is best to use an opaque tank to hinder algae growth. Place a lid on the tank to prevent leaves or insects from getting into the water.
What is the best place to install the tank connector?
It is best to install the tank connector a few centimeters above the bottom of the tank. This allows suspended particles to settle without entering the hoses. In the case of a large tank, we recommend mounting a slightly larger and sealable outlet at the lowest point, allowing you to flush the tank easily if necessary.
Why should the tank be only 12 meters higher than the plants?
The Blumat system is designed for a maximum water pressure of 1.3 bar. If the pressure increases, there is a risk that the hoses will disconnect from the connectors. The pressure increases by 0.1 bar per meter in height. If the tank is 12 meters above the plants, and the water level in the tank is 1 meter high, the pressure at the plants will be 1.3 bar.
What should I consider when installing the hose?
Place the hoses in a way that they do not create obstacles. Ensure the hose is not bent or kinked. Do not lay the hoses too tightly, as they may shrink slightly in winter.
Why should no lubricants be used to install the supply hose?
These substances can damage and make the hose brittle. You can wet the hose or slightly warm it with a hairdryer to ease the hose installation.
Can I control the water delivery with a distribution dripper?
The black screw should not be adjusted so that all distributors respond equally. If a distribution dripper visibly delivers less water, it is better to clean it.
How do I clean the distribution drippers?
Completely loosen and remove the screw, place both parts in lukewarm water, and add a little vinegar or descaler. Remove any caked material on the screw with an old toothbrush.
My distribution drippers regularly get scaled, what can I do to avoid this?
If you have hard water, you cannot avoid calcification. In that case, you need to clean the distribution drippers more frequently.
Why does Blumat Classic work according to the plant's needs?
Blumat utilizes the power of roots. Plants use their roots to draw water from the porous clay cone. When the plant has sufficient water, the roots stop absorbing, and the water delivery stops.
How large should the water reservoir be?
The size of the water reservoir depends on the water needs of the plant and how long you want to go without refilling it. It's best to observe the Blumat system for a while before leaving the plants unattended for an extended period.
What should I do if the water reservoir is empty?
Simply refill the water reservoir and the Blumat Classic.
Can I use liquid plant food in the water reservoir?
Yes, in that case, you need to clean the water tank and the Blumat more frequently.
Algae are forming in my water tank, what can I do?
It's best to use opaque containers as algae need light to grow.
Do I need to fully bleed the hose of the Blumat Classic?
No, a small air bubble forms in the Blumat, but it doesn't affect its operation.
What happens if the water reservoir is placed higher than Blumat Classic?
Water starts to flow continuously. This setting can be used for plants with high water needs. In this case, make sure to use a plant saucer or tray to protect your floor in case of excess water.
Can I water vegetables, fruit, and herbs with Blumat Classic?
Yes, Blumat Classic can be safely used for watering vegetables and fruit. All Blumat Classic products are tested according to the standards of the Austrian Drinking Water Regulations, and they meet all limit values. Blumat Classic products are free of BPA and phthalates (since 2021).
Are Blumat Classic products suitable for drinking water?
Blumat Classic products are tested according to the standards of the Austrian Drinking Water Regulations, and they meet all limit values. However, these products are used for irrigating plants and not for transporting drinking water. They are not certified for this purpose.
Why do I need to poke a hole in the bottle for Blumat Easy?
Without a hole, a vacuum can form in the bottle over time, and no water or less water will be released from Blumat Easy.
How large should the hole be?
A very small hole in or near the bottom of the bottle is sufficient, for example, with a pin. A small hole is easy to close with your finger when refilling.
How long can I water with Blumat Easy?
This depends on the size of the used bottle. With a 2-liter bottle, Blumat Easy provides water for up to 10 days, and Blumat Easy XL for up to 7 days.
Why can't bottles larger than 2 liters be used?
There is a risk of the bottle tipping over. Additionally, larger bottles or jerry cans usually have a larger opening that the Blumat Easy Bottle Adapter does not fit.
My Blumat Easy is delivering more water than indicated, why?
If the soil is dry or the plant is particularly thirsty, the roots actively draw from the clay cone.
Over time, my Blumat Easy delivers less water than indicated, why?
The micropores in the clay cone may be clogged or algae may have formed inside.
How do I clean Blumat Easy?
The lifespan of Blumat Easy is extended if it is thoroughly cleaned once a year. Place Blumat Easy in warm water for about five minutes. Then, clean the inside of the clay cone with a small brush and sand the outside with sandpaper.
Does Blumat Easy work with a glass bottle?
No, Blumat Easy should only be used with plastic bottles.
Can I water vegetables, fruit, and herbs with Blumat Easy?
Yes, Blumat Easy can be safely used for watering vegetables and fruit. All Blumat Easy products are tested according to the standards of the Austrian Drinking Water Regulations, and they meet all limit values. Blumat Easy products are free of BPA and phthalates.
Are Blumat Easy products suitable for drinking water?
Blumat Easy products are tested according to the standards of the Austrian Drinking Water Regulations, and they meet all limit values. However, these products are used for irrigating plants and are not intended for the transport and distribution of drinking water. They are not certified for this purpose.
What is a Digital Tensiometer?
The Blumat Digital Tensiometer works similarly to Tropf-Blumat but does not regulate water delivery. It is used to measure soil moisture based on suction tension.
My Blumat Digital shows impossible values, what can I do?
The calibration is disrupted and needs to be reset. Unscrew the measuring head from the plastic tube and press the "On" button for 5 seconds until "000" appears on the display. Then refill the Digital Tensiometer with water as usual, screw the head back on, and place it back.
Do I need to remove my Blumat Digital when watering the plants
You don't need to remove the Blumat Digital while watering; it is protected against splashing water from above. However, direct watering should be avoided to prolong the lifespan of your Blumat Digital. If you also use the protective cap, direct watering is not a problem.
My Blumat Digital loses some water over time, what could be the cause?
This is normal; the Blumat Digital gradually loses some water during use and needs to be refilled once or twice a year. The water level can be easily checked using the white sleeve without having to unscrew the measuring head. If the sleeve is only half full, you need to refill the Digital Tensiometer.
The soil of my plants is very dense and firm. Can the Blumat Digital break when placing it?
In principle, the Blumat Digital is very durable, but if the soil is dense and firm, it is recommended to loosen the soil or create a hole for the Blumat Digital. The best way to do this is by using the Blumat Corer, which is precisely adapted to the shape of the Digital Tensiometer.
Is de Blumat Digital water- en luchtdicht?
Nee. De 3 schroeven aan de onderkant zijn niet afgedicht zodat een drukvereffening mogelijk is. Dit is technisch noodzakelijk voor een exact meetresultaat.
Is the Blumat Digital water- and airtight?
No. The three screws at the bottom are not sealed to allow pressure equalization. This is technically necessary for an accurate measurement result.
The display of my Blumat Digital is foggy on the inside, why is that?
Air brings moisture inside. This condenses on the display, especially when it cools rapidly. This is normal and does not affect functionality. As the temperature rises, the display usually dries on its own. If that's not enough, place the Blumat Digital in a warm and dry environment. Unscrewing the Blumat Digital accelerates drying.
My Blumat Digital fell into the water, what should I do?
Water may have entered through the three screws at the bottom. Unscrew the Blumat Digital, remove the battery, and wait until everything is dry again. Then close the Blumat Digital and check its operation.
General questions
For added convenience, our customer service team has listed the most frequently asked questions.
Is VAT included in the prices listed?
The prices displayed in our Webshop include VAT. You can see the VAT amount at the checkout page.
Will I receive a confirmation of my placed order?
Yes, you will receive a confirmation of your order via email. Please note that it may occasionally end up in your spam mailbox (unwanted mail folder).
Will I receive a paper invoice?
All orders and payments are processed entirely digitally. The invoice will be sent to you as a PDF attachment in the email confirmation of your order.
How soon will my order be delivered?
If you have ordered and paid on working days before 17:00 and the order consists of items that are in stock (current stock levels are visible on the website), your order will be shipped the same day. Typically, a package (within the Netherlands) is delivered in 98% of all cases the next day.
The exact delivery time depends on the carrier and other circumstances beyond our control.
Where can I find the shipping costs that apply to me?
You can view the shipping costs in your shopping cart before finalizing your order.
Why don't you offer free shipping?
Don't be misled; free shipping doesn't really exist. It's quite simple: the costs incurred for shipping must be paid in one way or another. Online stores that claim to offer 'free' shipping still factor in these costs. The shipping costs are then incorporated into the selling prices of the products. Of course, like most other online stores, we could do this: slightly increase the prices of all our products and pretend we don't charge shipping. However, we find this unfair. In this way, customers ordering multiple items are disadvantaged. These customers unknowingly end up paying more in shipping costs than they would with us. Stores that claim to offer free shipping, therefore, make a profit on 'free shipping' without you realizing it. We prefer to keep the costs transparent!
Why is the shipping weight higher than the actual weight of my package?
This may happen because your shipment is calculated in two ways: the actual weight and the volumetric weight. The higher of the two is considered the shipping weight for your shipment. The volumetric weight is calculated based on the dimensions of your shipment and a weight of 250 kg per m³ (length x width x height in meters = volume in m³ x 250kg or L x W x H in cm divided by 4000).
Can I have my purchase delivered to an address other than my home address?
Yes, that is possible. During the ordering process, you can check the option 'ship to a different address.'
When will I get my money back from returned products?
In most cases you will receive your money back within 14 days after the return.
Will I be reimbursed for the return shipping costs if I send back products?
You will not be reimbursed for the return shipping costs of the returned products.
Something went wrong with the delivery, what can I do?
If the issue is an address error and you have already received a track & trace from us, we ask you to contact DHL directly. Sometimes they can still change the address and make a second delivery attempt. If there is another reason for the delivery failure, please contact us.
The responsibility for any additional costs arising from an (address) error or failed delivery lies with the consumer unless the problem can be demonstrably attributed to us.
Can my return shipment be picked up?
No, it is only possible to return your order yourself, always accompanied by the return form. See the 'Returns' menu on our website for more information.
What should I do if a product is damaged?
Please contact our customer service via email; we are happy to help. We ask you to include photos of the defect (in JPEG format). This can help expedite the resolution of your complaint.
Is it possible to have my product repaired through you?
Yes, you need to contact customer service for assistance.