Troubleshooting Irrigation Solenoids is the first step in the electrical troubleshooting process. In this article we will look at a step by step approach on how to quickly identify if you have a bad solenoid which is not operating correctly. *We are not addressing power (Volt's) output problems from the Satellite and will assume that the voltage output is functioning correctly.

How to troubleshoot a 120v ground fault on a long wire run on your Golf Course

Scenario:

We were recently called by a Superintendent who had one of three 120 Volt power circuits/legs not working. The circuit supplied power to 10 satellites on the course. The problem surfaced right in the middle of the annual over seeding project. Of course the circuit went down on a Friday with temperatures in the mid 90’s. Just like main-line breaks, they never seem to occur on a Monday morning after it just rained. 

How a solenoid coil works

A solenoid is a coil of wire which wraps around a piston type of device. When a solenoid is energized, a magnetic field is created when current is applied and the piston (plunger) of the mechanism lifts off the port in the valve assembly- which results in the valve opening.

When the power is shut off to the solenoid the electromagnetic field dissipates and the plunger assembly seats back down over the port and the valve shuts down.