Why won't our sprinkler system turn off even when timer is unplugged?

Question

We can't seem to locate our solenoid box. The system will only shut down if the system water line is shut off. Three zones go on at once and won't shut off.

Answer 1

if you have to shut down the irrigation shut off valve for it to stop it is more than likely a valve issue.

either someone has left the solenoids or bleeder screws open, (perhaps when winterizing) , or there could be debris in the valves such as rocks, peices of broken pipes, etc., the plunger inside the solenoid may be sticking, or the valves may have just worn out and need replacing.

sometimes the timer can go bad and be stuck sending out power to the valves, causing them to constantly run. but if you unplug it it would still stop. without you having to turn it off outside at the shut off valve.

there could be multiple start times programmed in the controller. you ussually just need one start time. if you have more than one, the system will run again or not shut off just because it is programmed wrong.

if all checks out with the timer, find the valves.

you do not need two people to find valves.

i find them everyday

by myself.

you may need a wire locator though.

i dont think you can rent one, but im not sure.

we all have them on our service trucks where i work.

and i am very familiar with them.

they send about 120 volts to the valves through the wire from the timer and will help you track the wire.

you could only maybe hear the solenoids or valves.

not all solenoids click, not all hum.

different brands and types act differently.

ive have seen this happen. but a wire locator is the way to go.

good luck and hope this helps

Answer 2

defiantly obtained foreign debris in the valves ,if you have a pump you need to install a filter .or somehow your main pipe to the valves was broken and repaired without removing the dirt.or if you have richdale or irritroll type valves the white retainer for the pin on the solenoid tip was not removed upon installation,common with rookie installation.  to find the valves you must have two people ,one at the timer and one walking the field ,probably going to be close to the sprinkler shutoff or the pump.the person at the timer will have to keep turning one of the stations that work correctly on and off repeatably while the other one walks listening for the solenoid 'clicking' .the other valves should be right next to it.  then remove the solenoid and free the pin. if you find rain bird D.V.D.valves you will have to clean the blue tip on the solenoid and reinstall it.  if that is not the problem then you will have to ta it apart and clean out the debris ,remember to always shut water supply off before attempting any repairs ,or you will cause yourself allot of grief.

Answer 3

I saw that in a movie once.  The machines are taking over!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maximum_Ove...

Answer 4

shut the water valve off!