Valves send water to each zone. Here is how valves, manifolds and boxes work and what goes wrong with them.
A zone valve is a simple machine. Water pressure holds a diaphragm closed. When the controller sends a small electric signal to the solenoid on top, it releases pressure, the diaphragm lifts and water flows to the zone. When the signal stops, the diaphragm closes again. Grit under the diaphragm, a dead solenoid or a broken wire can all stop a valve from working properly, and each fault has a different fix.
Valves are usually grouped in a valve box, sometimes on a manifold, which is a shared pipe that feeds several valves neatly. A good manifold is easy to service, labeled and sealed against water at the wire connections. Valves wear over time, so keeping a clean, accessible box with waterproof splices is one of the best investments in an irrigation system. Isolation valves let a single valve be serviced without shutting off the whole system.
The working parts.
Keep them dry.
Neat and serviceable.
Grit and solenoids.
Easier service.
Fast repairs.
Take the quiz, check a problem or ballpark a budget.
Grit under the diaphragm is a common cause. Cleaning or rebuilding it usually fixes the problem.
It opens the valve when it receives a small electric signal from the controller.
They protect the valves and wiring and make service quick.
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