Rain Bird Irrigation Sprinkler Manifold & HV Solenoid Valves – 2 Zone

If using a 9V/Battery Operated Controller, use alongside a 9V DC Solenoid Valve to ensure the current is enough to operate the valve. 9V DC Solenoids operate on a lower voltage and have much smaller coils inside the solenoid so should not be used alongside mains-powered controllers.

When using a 24V Mains Powered Controller, install it with a 24V Solenoid to ensure the inrush current does not destroy the solenoid coils.

Top Tip: Contact a qualified electrician before purchasing and installing your components.

A solenoid valve that does not open or shut off water flow when required or is leaking indicates damage to the solenoid or valve. After switching off the water flow and power supply linked to the valve, check the following considerations are met.

1. Debris built up inside the valve’s internal mechanisms may be causing a blockage or preventing the valve diaphragm from operating as it should. Ensure the valve box is free from any dirt or weed growth clogging any vital mechanisms.
2. Check the water pressure and flow rate from the water source to the valve are within the range outlined in the product’s specifications. Too much pressure will cause damage and too little will prevent the valve from opening.
3. A valve may be prone to leaks if the O-ring between the solenoid thread and solenoid port is bent, twisted or perished. Turn your valve to the off position before installing a Replacement Solenoid.

1. A valve that won’t shut off indicates a problem with the internal plunger where the port has become blocked or filled with debris preventing the plunger from dropping down into the valve. Often cleaning the solenoid port should rectify this problem. After cleaning the solenoid port, switch the solenoid valve off manually or at the controller level. If the valve remains open, the internal mechanisms will need inspecting and further cleaning.
2. For valves with built-in flow control, turn the flow control down until the valve does eventually close (usually this is achieved by turning in a clockwise direction). Once you have established the required level of flow, leave the flow control in this position. This should allow the valve to work correctly opening automatically when receiving communication from the timer.

1. Check the water supply is switched on and that there are no flow restrictions such as a closed valve or a leaking connector.
2. If using a valve with built-in flow control, ensure the valve is not closed/partially closed preventing water from reaching the sprinklers.
3. Most solenoid valves allow you to remove the valve bonnet. Before undertaking any maintenance, turn off the water supply to your valve box and drain the irrigation line. Then, remove the solenoid lid by unthreading the screws. Check if any grit or large particles have become lodged inside. The debris can be removed or flushed from the valve and the lid refitted.

4. A low flow rate or low pressure generated from the tap can cause a valve to remain closed. To combat this, manually open the valve using the bleed screw to allow water to run through. If the valve remains closed, this indicates an electrical problem and it is advisable to contact a licenced professional to carry out maintenance.