Frequently Asked Questions

If you are looking for frequently asked questions about monitoring temperatures and humidity in your grain bin, you’ve come to the right place.

  • Can I add moisture to Soybeans?

    Yes, you can!

    How long does it take to add moisture to soybeans?

    Varies by airflow rate, 1 cfm per bushel takes several weeks of continuous fan operation with 70% humidity air to bring the moisture to 13%. At ½ cfm it takes twice as long.

  • Do I need temperature and moisture cables in my bins?

    Not with the Steps S2 System. The Steps S2 Headspace Sensor monitors the air temperature and humidity above the grain in the bin. When the fan is running it reads the temperature and humidity of the air coming through the grain.

  • Why do I need Wi-Fi at my bins?

    The Guardian Grain Control Box is connected to the OSPL Sensor and the Headspace Sensors through the wifi network. The app on your smartphone is connected through the wifi.

  • Are there any subscription fees?

    No! The app is free to download & use.

  • What kind of batteries do the Guardian Grain S2 Sensor Bulbs use?

    Lithium CR123A 3V.

  • How long do the batteries last in the sensors?

    Up to a year when the sensors are indoors. Outside with the temperature and humidity changing, up to a couple of months.

  • How do the Guardian Grain products work?

    It controls the fan (Guardian Grain Control Box) based on (Guardian Grain OS/PL Sensor) air temperature and humidity. Humidity is grain moisture. When you control the fan you control the moisture of the grain in the bin and less grain monitoring is required. The S2 Headspace Sensor tells you the temperature and (humidity) moisture of the grain in the bin while the fan is running. When the fan is off and the sun shines on the roof, the heat builds up under the top of the roof. When you trap warm air in the peak of the roof you create condensation.


    Why does that matter?

    When the warm air meets cool grain, condensation occurs on the grain, and the grain crusts over. Most of the problems in the bin start on the top surface of the grain with condensation. When the fans operate with the correct air temperature and humidity until the Headspace Sensor verifies the exhaust air temperature and humidity the grain is ready for storage. The Headspace Sensor can be set to control the fans when the grain is being stored.

  • If I lose power will the fan come back on with the power?

    Depending on your setting choices within the app the fan may resume or shut off.

  • What do I do if the humidity and temperature readings are always the same?

    Shut off all power to the switch. Unplug the humidity/temperature switch from the internal board. Wait a few minutes and plug the sensor back in and turn power back on. You may also want to add some dielectric grease to the connection as well. You may also need to update your app, make sure all updates have been performed. 


    If you have tried these steps and still are not getting accurate readings please call 605-336-1750 or 800-557-4689, or email any questions to info@guardiangrain.com.

  • If I have a 3 phase power with no neutral wire in my fan control box, how can I connect the Guardian Control Box to my fan?

    The Guardian Control Box requires a neutral to power it.  The power to the Guardian Control Box normally comes from the control circuit that powers the start/stop buttons on the fan magnetic starter. If there is no neutral available in the fan control box, power the Guardian Control Box from a separate circuit that has a neutral. You need to add a separate single pole relay to control the fan control circuit and control it with the Guardian Control Box. 

  • How does Guardian GMS help control CO2 in my grain bin?

    Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is produced as organic grain materials spoil and begin to rot.  By monitoring and controlling the humidity in a grain bin’s headspace, it will help prevent spoilage of the top layer of grain (where it usually begins).  By preventing the rotting process, CO2 will not be produced in the grain bin.

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