Frequently Asked Questions
For more information, call Contech at 1-800-767-8658 (in Canada or USA), 1-250-652-0755 (overseas), or send an e-mail to us.
How long will the ScareCrow operate before needing a new battery?
Results vary from a few weeks to a year depending upon how often people, pets or the wind trigger the unit. The average seems to be between four and six months. The ScareCrow will typically fire approximately 3000 times from a single battery.
How much water pressure is needed?
30 to 80 P.S.I. If your water pressure is greater than 80P.S.I., Contech recommends installing a pressure reducer (available at hardware and irrigation supply stores) at the hose bib.
Does the ScareCrow work at night?
Yes. The ScareCrow works during the day and at night because it uses an infrared sensor.
Can I adjust the sensitivity of the ScareCrow?
Yes, you can adjust the sensitivity with the simple twist of a knob.
Can I switch the ScareCrow off?
Yes. There are two ways to switch off the ScareCrow: either set the sensitivity knob to zero, or shut off the water supply. Please note that if you shut the water off, the unit will still sense and activate, but will not spray water. For a heavy traffic area, turning the sensitivity know to zero is the best option.
Can the ScareCrow be used in the winter?
No. Bring it in when there is risk of freezing. Freezing water may damage the valve in the ScareCrow.
I'm not sure I like the look of the ScareCrow. Can I get it in plain black?
Yes, the ScareCrow is delivered with the decals packaged separately – you may choose to apply the 'beak and eyes' design, or leave them off.
Can I hook the ScareCrow up to my in-ground irrigation system?
No, the ScareCrow needs line pressure at all times. An irrigation system pipeline only pressurizes when the system is sprinkling your lawn. You can however, set up a separate in-ground irrigation feed system to your ScareCrow that is on all the time. As PVC pipe is not as flexible as a garden hose and therefore less able to absorb the pressure flux of a ScareCrow activation, Contech recommends installing a hammer arrester at the point where the ScareCrow is affixed to the in ground plumbing.
Which product works better for deterring cats: the ScareCrow or CatStop?
While both products effectively deter cats, the CatStop can be used places where the ScareCrow is unsuitable (anywhere that spraying water would be unacceptable, or where a water source is not easily available). For example, the CatStop is a perfect solution for keeping cats out of carports and garden beds near public walkways. The ScareCrow has a larger sensing range and is an excellent device for keeping cats off lawns, and away from ponds and gardens.
Can I return a ScareCrow if it doesn't meet my needs?
Yes. Contact the store or catalog where you purchased the device for specific instructions. If purchased from Contech, call 1-800-767-8658 (in Canada or USA) or 1-250-652-0755 (overseas) for more information.
Is there technical help available should I have a problem with my ScareCrow?
Yes. See
Troubleshooting for an interactive guide complete with detailed answers to most of questions and "How-To" videos.
