Question
I just purchased this home and did not have any trouble with the system until we left for a few weeks and came back to dead plants and garden (of course).  The display screen was blank and the programs were not running.  I saw a connection for a D volt battery and put that in (it never had one installed before that) and the system came on and ran program as usual.  I did not have a rechargable on had so I used the alkaline type.  I did next install a nicad rechargable but that died quickly and the screen went dead and system would not run.  I replaced with an alkaline and it works until it is drained and I have to replace every other day.  What could be wrong with my rainbird.  Is it the transformer, the montior screen or do I need to replace the whole unit.  thanks for your help

Answer
Ginger,

The purpose of the 9v battery on almost all the timers is to save the program incase of a power outage. Since the battery was rechargable then it is a AC system and the 9v battery in itself is not enough to activate the valves. I would replace the controller and make sure that the controller is plugged into a GFI outlet for extra protection.  

Best Wishes,
Bob