valve’s solenoid- which should be 30 ohms. Theoretically, since the field wire circuit checked-out OK, you would expect to get a higher than expected solenoid resistance, verifying that the problem was the solenoid. If this is the case, you need to replace the solenoid. However, if you get a 30 ohms resistance measurement through the solenoid, indicating that the solenoid is OK, then the fault was the wire connection. That is, the field wiring is checking-out OK and so is the valve’s solenoid… so the problem must have been the wire connection. At this point, inspect and re-strip the wires, put on a waterproof wire connect, walk back to controller, separate the common and circuit field wire and re-measure the circuit’s ohms resistance. It should measure the expected 30 ohms resistance. If it does not, repeat steps 1 thru 4. What if the circuit now checksout OK but does not operate? Well, if internal operations (programming, voltage output, shut-off sensors, etc.) are functioning properly the electrical circuit is healthy, so the problem is internally in the valve or (as embarrassing as this can be) there is no water pressure available to the valve. Don’t assume that the issue has to Page 38
be the controller or the wiring. This is why, when trouble shooting, you want to begin the process by verifying the integrity of the system as a whole… not just jump to conclusions and assume it is the electronics of the controller (as emphasized in the first article). Poor terminal and wire connects: There are plenty of systems that have inadequate/no waterproof wire connects along with loose wire connection at the terminal. You should always check the integrity of the wire connections at the terminal of the controller; the use of electrical tape and connects used on automotive trailer wire are not adequate. They are water-resistant but not water-proof. There are some ‘nationally’ manufactured wire connects that claim to be good… but they are not. Making good waterproof wire connections is key to eliminating wiring issues due to corrosion. Quality wire connects also greatly reduce the opportunity for lightning to enter into the control system. This is especially true on larger systems and extra expense and care should be taken when selecting and installing waterproof connections.