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How to Find the Valves for a Sprinkler System

The valves on your sprinkler system control the flow of water from the manifold to each zone. The valves are controlled by the timer, which sends an electric signal to the solenoids on the top of each valve. Valves are made out of plastic, and connect to the manifold through pipe threads or clamps. Locating the valves on your system for maintenance or repair is simple.

Instructions

    • 1

      Walk around the perimeter of your house and look for a brass, bell-shaped device that stands on a pipe. This is the pressure vacuum breaker, an important piece of safety equipment that prevents the water inside the sprinkler lines from flowing back into the main line.

    • 2

      Follow the pipe down to the irrigation control box. The box should sit directly under the breaker, or very near the breaker in the ground. The box probably has a green lid.

    • 3

      Place your finger under the tab at the top of the lid and pull straight up to remove the lid. The valves should be accessible inside the box.