Irrigation valves are an essential component of any irrigation system, controlling the flow of water to different zones of your lawn or garden. However, like any mechanical system, irrigation valves can experience issues that can disrupt the proper functioning of your system.
If you’re experiencing problems with your irrigation system, it’s important to troubleshoot the issue and identify the root cause. This troubleshooting section of the instruction manual will guide you through the common issues that can arise with irrigation valves, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to diagnose and fix the problem.
By following these troubleshooting steps, you can ensure that your irrigation system is functioning optimally, providing your lawn and garden with the water it needs to thrive.
Problem: The valve will not open electrically #
First, run the valve manually by opening the manual bleed lever/screw (turn counterclockwise). Close the manual bleed lever/screw when the manual test is complete.
Check if…
The valve is installed incorrectly. #
Make sure that the arrows are in the direction of water flow.
Wiring is incorrect. #
Check wiring at the valve and at the timer with the instructions Check to see that timer is working properly.
There is debris in the porthole. #
Turn off water. Remove the solenoid. Push a wire or large paper clip down through the round porthole working it up and down to free any debris. Be sure the plunger and O-ring are in place when reassembling.
Defective solenoid. #
Turn off water. Unscrew the solenoid and replace it with one from a working valve. If the valve works, replace the solenoid. Be sure the plunger and O-ring are in place when reassembling.
Solenoid plunger is stuck. #
Turn off water. Remove the solenoid and clean out sand and debris. Be sure the plunger and O-ring are in place when reassembling.
Problem: The valve will not close #
Check if…
The controller is in auto or manual mode. #
Ensure the controller is turned off.
The valve is installed incorrectly. #
Make sure that the arrows are in the direction of water flow. NOTE: If a valve is installed backwards, it will allow water to flow until activated. once it is activated it will turn the water off instead of on.
Valve is manually set to on. #
Use finger-tight pressure to turn the solenoid clockwise to the “OFF” position. CAUTION:
Over-tightening risks the possibility of damaging the solenoid seat. Re-tighten bleed screw on top of valve if leakage is observed. Verify that the O-ring is not damaged.
HRB Valve Specifically #
IF the solenoid has been overtightened then the valve will remain on. You’ll need to replace the cone (aka Volcano) located in the bottom of the solenoid adapter.
Solenoid plunger is stuck. #
Turn off water. Remove the solenoid and clean out sand and debris. Be sure the plunger and O-ring are in place when reassembling.
Solenoid or Solenoid Adapter O-ring is damaged or twisted. #
Turn off water. Remove the solenoid or solenoid adapter. Clean out any sand and debris. check the O-ring for damages. Reset or replace the plunger and O-ring before reassembling.
Rock or debris is in between the washer and the valve seat. #
Turn off water. Remove valve lid and diaphragm assembly and clean the interior of the valve.
Diaphragm is dirty, ruptured, or is not aligned. #
Turn off water. Remove the lid and inspect the diaphragm for tears. Clean and replace the diaphragm assembly if torn.
Solenoid is shorted or damaged. #
Remove the solenoid and replace. NOTE: Most valves utilize solenoid adapters. before throwing away the old solenoid ensure you have removed the solenoid adapter.
Problem: External valve leaks #
Check if…
PVC fittings going into valve installed incorrectly. #
Use thread seal tape generously on threads and tighten firmly. Do not overtighten.
Pressure is too high. #
Install a pressure regulator upstream of the valve and set it at below 80 psi (5.5 bars).
Leaking below solenoid. #
Turn off water. verify solenoid adapter is properly installed. Check for exposed O-rings replace if damaged. Tighten solenoid.
