RainBird ESP-6 Programming Help (spring, springs, bird, zones)

[alsidw]

I have been trying to resolve unsuccessfully a problem I have with my Rain Bird ESP-6 sprinkler system and need advice and help.

Basically it is running too long. I have it set to start at 4:30 am and it waters 5 zones for 35 minutes each. Although it is a 6 zone unit my sprinkler system has but 5 zones. Today at 9:30 am it was still watering the last zone #5. I figured that it should be finished by 7:15 am the latest. Also Zone 6 is set to zero minutes.
What am I not figuring in? what am I doing wrong?

Sid

[Bulldogdad]

Originally Posted by alsidw

I have been trying to resolve unsuccessfully a problem I have with my Rain Bird ESP-6 sprinkler system and need advice and help.

Basically it is running too long. I have it set to start at 4:30 am and it waters 5 zones for 35 minutes each. Although it is a 6 zone unit my sprinkler system has but 5 zones. Today at 9:30 am it was still watering the last zone #5. I figured that it should be finished by 7:15 am the latest. Also Zone 6 is set to zero minutes.
What am I not figuring in? what am I doing wrong?

Sid

Geez I hate that controller. Usually one of two things- an overlapping program that needs to be deleted or a stuck valve.

Hard to help with the programming without actually seeing everything on the clock. You'll have monkey around with that one.

For the possible stuck valve the diaphram or solenoid might be sticking.

Start with the clock first delete everything off programs A and B then start over. It would also disconnect the power and battery to erase the ram memory.

Also try turning the valve in question on and off manually with the clock. That will probably tell you if the valve is sticking. Obviously if the valve doesnt turn off with this procedure its a stuck valve.

If its the valve take the top off, CAREFULLY so no springs pop out and flush all the inner parts. Bulid up, sand and tiny rocks can get in there and cause the valve not to close.

Ugh do you really want me to get into the solenoid checking procedure? try the other things first and get back to me.

If you can post a picture of the valve that would help also.

[alsidw]

I may have discovered the issue. Under programs 1,2,3. I had fooled around and set program 1 and program 2. One to start at 4am and the next at 4:30. I am guessing that the system would be running all 5 zones starting at 4 am and then when that finished it would start the second program immediately afterward. I now just have one program set and will see tomorrow Am what happens.

Thank you so much for replying. I know it is a simple system but I bought the house and had no prior knowledge of sprinklers. If it does not work can I write again?
Sid

[Bulldogdad]

Yup. Like I said best to clear everything and start over. Goodluck.