Zone valves are the valves that receive a signal and voltage from the controller on when to open and close. The controller sends 24 volts and 0.25 amps to the valve which then opens and water rushes through to the sprinkler heads on the property. Normally only one valve will operate at a one time. Zone valves are one part electrical, the solenoid, and one part hydraulic, the part (body) that the water rushes through. The controller sends voltage to the solenoid and the plunger inside will lift and allow a little bit of water to enter the upper chamber of the valve. This equalizes the pressure inside the valve, lifting the diaphragm, and allowing water to pass through.
I realize I am getting technical and providing too much information however to explain my point it is important to have knowledge about solenoid valves. Typically what happens is solenoids burn out, valve diaphragms wear out and debris clogs the inside causing valve failure. Over the lifetime of the system, these issues will occur and appear more frequently depending on the number of valves and constant use of the system.
Zone valves are normally in a closed position until they are told to open or turn on when the controller commands it. During the summer it is not uncommon for us to receive calls that a zone is on and won’t shut off. Homeowners will say “I turn my controller to off and the zone stayed on. I unplugged the controller and the zone stayed on! What can I do?”
Unfortunately all you can do is turn off the main water to the sprinkler system which is either located in your basement and should be identified by a pink tag “MAIN SPRINKLER SHUT OFF VALVE” or outside in your meter pit. Call Rain Rich Sprinklers and schedule a service visit. We will locate the problem valve, take it apart, and clean it out. Reassemble and test it. Hopefully we find something simple inside (like a stone, piece of glass, a screw), remove it, and your back in business. If your system is more than 10 years old then you probably have to replace the valve. Depending upon the location and any obstacles we have to overcome, e.g. tree roots, this can be a project. If you have more than one zone, and most clients do, then consider replacing them and save money.
Another problem with electric zone valves is sprinkler systems in areas with high water pressure. High water pressure is pressure that is above 70 PSI. It wears valves out very quickly and shortens their life span. High water pressure leads to water hammer which is the knocking noise you hear every time a valve closes. It is comparable to a car traveling at 60 mph into a brick wall. Eventually, something breaks and the result could be a flood at your home. The best solution is to install a pressure regulating valve and dial back the pressure to 60 psi or less. This will extend the life of your zone valves and your system.
If you see a problem call us at 631-423-2211, or email us at irrigationspecialist@rainrich.com to schedule a convenient service visit.
Rain Rich Sprinklers has been serving Long Island for 37 years. Rain Rich prides itself on providing outstanding service and the best value.
