How to Monitor Sprinkler Valves

Sprinkler valves control the flow of water throughout your irrigation system. These valves use an electric signal to activate a plunger that releases a vacuum seal within the valves. When these plungers are in action, the valves give off a strong vibration that you can use to tell the status of your valves. Monitoring your sprinkler valves is important for knowing when your system is on or off. This can help diagnose problems with the rest of your system.

Sprinkler timer
Screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the irrigation control box outside the house. It's usually partially buried underground, and has a green lid.
- 2
  Insert a flat-head screwdriver into one slot on the lid and press down. This will release a tab that holds the lid in place. Lift up on the lid while depressing the retaining tab.
- 3
  Press your hand against the body of each valve. You should not feel any vibrations. If you do, there is likely a defect in the valve and water is running through the system.
- 4
  Go to the sprinkler timer and set each zone to run for at least two minutes. While all sprinkler timers are different, you will probably have to turn your timer to the "run" position and the zone timer dial to the "two minute" position.
- 5
  Return to the irrigation control box and place your hand on each valve. You can monitor whether each valve properly turns on and off by feeling for vibrations. The vibrations will last for as long as each valve is on.

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