Question
Station # 16 does not operate.  I can manually turn on the Control Valve.  But the Controller cannot operate the Station 16 Control Valve.  All electrical connections at the valve and also the Controller are good.  There are five valves in the field green box. The other four control valves operate OK.  Is the problem with the valve solenoid?  I'll appreciate any assistance you can give me in trouble-shooting and fixing this problem.  Thanks.

Answer
Suresh,

In the Hunter ICC controller, a "16 ERR" display means there is a ground fault in the wire leading to that valve (in this case #16). Before you change the solenoid, check the wires for continuity with a multi-meter.  

A continuity test is done to determine whether a circuit is open or closed. For example, a wall switch is closed when it is turned to the "on" position and it is open when it is turned off. An open circuit cannot conduct electricity. A closed circuit has continuity. This test should be done when current is NOT present. Always unplug the controller before attempting a continuity test.

Set the multimeter to the ohm setting. The symbol for ohm is , the Greek letter omega. If there is more than one ohm setting, choose X1. An analog meter, like the one pictured below, uses a needle to indicate the measured value. A digital meter performs the same test functions as an analog meter, with the key difference being that a digital meter provides a numeric reading instead of using a needle.


Note that while the probes are not touching anything, the multimeter will indicate a reading of infinity. A reading of infinity means that the circuit is open. When you touch the two probes together, the reading changes to zero. A reading of zero indicates that the circuit is closed or complete. A complete circuit is one that can conduct electricity; an open circuit cannot.  Touch each probe to each of the wires of the valve. If the reading changes to zero the device has continuity.

You can also use a continuity tester, which is a less expensive more basic device, to conduct this test. As above, touch one probe to each terminal. If the device has continuity, the tester will light up.


If continuity is good, then I would replace the solenoid. Just take it to the local sprinkler supply shop and they can match it up.

Good luck with the repair. - BC