Rainbird Wiring Diagram (2024)

FAQs

Why does my Rain Bird sprinkler system keep running? ›

If your controller is off and the water keeps running there is an issue with 1 or all the valves or supply lines. When this happens it may be necessary to clean or replace a valve, or to call a contractor.

Is the water turned on, is the controller plugged in and programmed correctly, are there isolation valves that might be turned off? Verify valve operation by using the manual bleed. This might indicate a controller or wiring problem if the valve works properly when using the manual bleed.

Sprinkler wire consists of one white or common wire and any other colored wire depending on how many control valves the system has. Your sprinkler wire needs to have at least one more wire than the number of zones being installed.

The common wire is found in the 'c' terminal and is vital to the systems operation. If a common wire gets cut then all of the solenoids that it connects together will be out of action.

Even when the controller turns off, it still runs indefinitely. The problem is most likely located in one of the solenoid valves. These valves are usually located in an underground access box outside in the yard. Before you call your irrigation service provider, you might want to take a look inside the access box.

A common reason for a controller to repeat a cycle is too many programmed start times. Only one start time per active program is required, a second start time will cycle the program an additional time. NOTE: In the Start Times dial position, the numbers 1-4 do not represent stations.

If your systems suddenly turn on manually, you may have a leaking line or component. Regularly check the different zones in your backyard. Sprinkler valves rely on the diaphragm seal to control water flow which is activated by a magnetic solenoid controlling internal vacuum pressure.

If you want to ignore any input by the rain sensor then the rain sensor should be changed to Bypass in the Rain Bird App or at the controller. Look for the WR2-48 Rain Sensor for an automatic shut-off of scheduled watering for 48 hours after measured rain exceeds the set threshold.

Inspect the sensor for debris or damage. The sensor may need to be cleaned, restarted, repaired, or replaced. If your controller seems to be working, or at least turning on, but the sprinklers themselves are acting erratically, there may be damage to a sprinkler line, head, or another part of the sprinkler system.

How are sprinkler lines connected? ›

Risers connect pipes to the sprinkler heads. Fittings or couplings, such as tees and elbows, connect and redirect pipe. A manual control system should allow you to maintain several areas with different needs. A backflow preventer is an anti-siphon device that's required in most areas.

Wiring Summary:

Remember it does not matter which of the two wires from the solenoid is chosen for the hot (positive or lead wire) or common wire coming from the controller. For instance, you can connect either wire from the sprinkler controller to either of the valve solenoid wires.