Water Depth Sampler (WDS)
Caution: Do not store the Water Depth Sampler in the armed position.
Purpose:
The Water Depth Sampler collects water samples at varying depths or distances away from a shoreline.
Water Sampling
Make sure the retrieving line is securely fastened to the cording connected to the eyebolt in the side of the water sampler. The retrieving line should be neatly coiled and free from tangles and knots. Fasten the free end of the line to some permanent fixture of the dock, bridge, or boat you are on; this will prevent the water sampler from being lost overboard if the free end of the line accidentally slips through your hands. Some users have found that a Lobsterman’s toggle (float) is sufficient to prevent losing the sampler. When tied to the free end, the toggle will float on the surface of salt water while supporting the sampler. This has not been documented in fresh water.
Arm the water sampler by pulling both balls directly outward at the same time, then folding them up over the top of the sampler body. Slip the two metal tubes together (one inside the other) and align the holes. Once aligned, insert the trigger pin through both metal tubes to arm the sampler.
To capture a sample, take a firm grip on the retrieving line then pull sharply upward. A quick tug of only a few inches is preferable. Slowly pull the sampler back out of the water. If you try triggering the sampler out of the water, be sure that no one is standing near by because the closing action is very quick and the trigger mechanism will swing wildly. The sampler is designed to properly trigger under water.
If the sampler tends to float instead of sink, drop the sampler from a small height into the water. The white balls must flood if the sampler sinks.
To obtain a sample from a desired depth, mark the retrieving line, using a permanent marker in your desired measurement (feet or meters). Arm the sampler, and slowly lower it over the side of the boat or dock until it reaches your desired depth based on the marking touching the water.
To use your water sample, hold the water sampler horizontally and release the pinch clamp sealing the plastic tubing to allow your water sample to flow out of the sampler.
Be careful not to agitate the water because this will introduce additional oxygen into the sample and affect any measurements of dissolved oxygen that you may make.
When the sampling is completed, rinse your equipment with fresh water then dry it.
Troubleshooting:
Important!
Always inspect all tubing, line, and cord connections on the Water Depth
Sampler. If any appear lose, make sure to reinforce them to ensure you do not lose parts of your sampler in the body of water you are testing.
The trigger pin is designed to fit snugly in the hole through the side of the trigger assembly to prevent accidental triggering of the sampler. Once the sampler is armed, this pin should resist being pulled out of this hole due to a ball bearing on the side of the trigger pin. After several uses, this pin may wear slightly and the trigger may trip easier.
If the trigger pin slips easily through one side of the trigger tube but will not go completely through; the holes may not be properly aligned. In this case, remove the trigger pin and rotate one of the trigger tubes by 180 degrees. When the holes line up again, reinsert the trigger pin. This time the trigger pin should pass through both holes.
Store your water sampler away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. If your sampler requires cleaning, use only water and mild detergents. DO NOT use solvents such as acetone or alcohol.
Caution: Do not store the Water Depth Sampler in the armed position.
