Got a Problem? We Have Solutions.
Troubleshooting guides, maintenance tips, and direct support from the Urban Calf Feeder USA team.
Quick Help
What Do You Need Help With?
Equipment Alarm or Error
Your Alma Pro or MilkShuttle is showing an error code or alarm. Check our troubleshooting guide below, or contact support directly for immediate help.
Maintenance & Cleaning
Need guidance on daily, weekly, or seasonal maintenance routines? Our maintenance checklist covers everything from cleaning cycles to UV-C lamp replacement.
Parts & Ordering
Need a replacement part? Visit our online parts store for genuine Urban replacement components with fast shipping from Kutztown, PA.
Software & Connectivity
WiFi setup, router configuration, remote monitoring access, or software update questions. We can walk you through it step by step.
Installation Support
Planning an installation or need help with setup? We provide guidance on water connections, electrical requirements, pen layout, and station placement.
Feeding Program Help
Need help setting up feeding curves, adjusting concentration levels, programming weaning schedules, or interpreting calf intake data.
Step-by-Step Guides
Common Troubleshooting Scenarios
Before calling for service, try these steps. Many common issues can be resolved on-farm in minutes.
🔌 Feeder Not Powering On
- Verify the main power supply is on at the breaker panel
- Check the power cable connection at the feeder and at the wall outlet
- Inspect the fuse on the feeder control board (refer to your manual for location)
- If the display is blank but power is confirmed, try a full power cycle (off for 30 seconds, then back on)
- Still no power? Contact your dealer or Urban Calf Feeder USA support
💧 Calf Not Recognized at Station
- Confirm the calf has a functioning transponder ear tag (check for damage)
- Verify the calf is registered in the system (check the terminal)
- Clean the antenna area on the drink station — buildup can block signal
- Test with a known working transponder to rule out station antenna issues
- Check the red cable connection between station and station electronics
🌡️ Milk Temperature Too Low
- Check that the pre-heater is enabled in the system settings
- Verify the water supply temperature — cold incoming water extends heating time
- Inspect the heating element for scale buildup (run a descaling cycle if overdue)
- For MilkShuttle: confirm the power supply is adequate (6 kW requires 240V/30A)
- Check hose length — longer hoses lose more heat during delivery
🧹 Cleaning Cycle Not Completing
- Check water supply pressure and flow rate — low pressure stalls cleaning
- Verify cleaning chemical levels (acid and detergent cans)
- Inspect the drain hose for kinks or blockages
- Check for error codes on the display during the cleaning cycle
- Run a manual rinse cycle to test water flow through the system
💻 WiFi / Remote Access Down
- Power cycle the router (unplug for 30 seconds, reconnect)
- Confirm your barn WiFi network is active and the router has signal
- Check the yellow cable connection from the terminal to the router
- Verify your internet connection is working on other devices
- If using a VPN or firewall, ensure port access is not blocked
⚠️ MilkShuttle Pasteurizer Not Reaching Temp
- Confirm the power supply is connected and providing full 240V
- Check that the agitator is running — it must operate during heating for even distribution
- Verify the lid is fully sealed (heat escapes through gaps)
- Inspect the heating element — mineral scale reduces efficiency over time
- If outdoors in cold weather, consider an insulation jacket
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions from Producers
UV-C lamps maintain effective germicidal output for approximately 8,000 to 9,000 hours. For most dairy operations running the system daily, this means replacement roughly once per year. The system will alert you when lamp output drops below effective levels. Always use genuine Urban replacement lamps to ensure the correct wavelength and intensity.
The Alma Pro uses a two-phase automated cleaning system with alkaline detergent and acid-based descaler. Urban recommends specific concentrations for each — your dealer can provide the recommended products for your water quality and operation. The system holds 22 lbs of each chemical in dedicated cans that are easy to refill.
The Alma Pro works with most commercial milk replacers. However, replacers with very high fat content or those that do not dissolve fully can cause clogging in the mixing bowl or hose lines. If you switch brands, monitor the first few cycles closely and adjust the agitator settings if needed. Your dealer can advise on which replacers work best with your specific configuration.
The Alma Pro requires 240V, 30A single-phase power (2 phase + PE). The MilkShuttle 150 and above also require 240V/30A for the 6 kW heating element. The MS100 runs on 230V single-phase with a 3 kW heater. A dedicated circuit is recommended for each feeder. Consult a licensed electrician for installation and confirm your barn panel has capacity before ordering.
Remote monitoring requires the Urban router (Part 101251) connected to your barn internet. The router communicates with the Touch Terminal via yellow cable and provides WiFi access. Once connected, your dealer can set up remote access so both you and your service team can monitor calf data, view alarms, and adjust settings from any device.
Genuine Urban replacement parts are available through the AMS Galaxy parts store online. Visit parts.amsgalaxyusa.com to browse and order. Parts ship from Kutztown, PA. For urgent needs, contact your local dealer or call Urban Calf Feeder USA directly at (484) 648-1365.
Preventive Maintenance
Keep Your Equipment Running Right
📅 Daily
Check chemical levels in acid and detergent cans. Visually inspect hose connections and nipples for wear. Confirm the cleaning cycle completed successfully overnight. Review the terminal for any active alarms or calves with reduced intake.
📆 Weekly
Inspect and clean the mixing bowl area. Check the powder hopper for bridging or moisture. Clean the station antenna area. Verify water supply pressure. For MilkShuttle: inspect tires, check battery charge, clean the nozzle assembly.
🗓️ Monthly / Seasonal
Run a full descaling cycle on the heating element. Inspect all hose assemblies for cracks or wear. Test calibration of the mixing system. Check UV-C lamp output. For MilkShuttle: lubricate drive components, inspect electrical connections, verify pasteurizer temperature accuracy with an external thermometer.
Need Direct Help?
Contact Urban Calf Feeder USA Support
Describe your issue and we will get back to you as quickly as possible. For urgent equipment-down situations, call us directly.
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