Question
QUESTION: My sprinklers are not working and I'm guessing it's the controller that needs replacement. I have 14 zones and am wondering what I should replace it with. I was hoping there was some way to replace just the clock, but it seems this is not the case. What do you suggest?

ANSWER: Anne,
What is the problem with the controller?
If you need to replace I would use a Hunter PRO-C controller with a 3 station module and a 9 station module. The base unit is a 3 station, so you will have a total of 15 available.
Rainbird make an ESP-LX series which would work well also. Again you will need a base unit and an expansion module.
Since any controller over a 12 station is expensive, be sure the controller you have is truly bad. If you give me some of the problems you are having I may be able to help.

Matt

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks, Matt. I've replaced the battery. After 5 minutes it blanks out and doesn't come back on unless I turn the dial and then it blanks out again after 5 min. The sprinklers never go on.
I actually have a 16 zone system with an 18 zone controller
Thanks for all advice

ANSWER: What manufacturer is the controller? Rainbird, Hunter Hardie , toro, etc. Also, if you could find a model # it would help.
It sound as if your transformer may be bad. The battery only operate the display for a few minutes then blank out. As it is doing.  The battery will not operate the sprinklers.
It's possible you don't need a controller, just a part. Reply back with info and I think I can help further.

Matt

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for trying to help us!
It is a James Hardie-about 11 yrs old. It is called Total Control by Hardie 18 stations- transformer model number 57LEIB24167 115vac 60hz wht-blk 24 vac @ 1.67A re-yell. Just unplugged the unit after reading your message-the transformer was very hot.
Thank you very much for your time and all your help.


Answer
Sorry for not replying sooner, my irrigation business has been crazy.
The best thing you can do at this point is test the transformer. Or you could just replace it, it's much cheaper than the controller.
To test you need a voltmeter. The terminals should read 23 volts to 27 volts, AC. If you don't have a tester, a trick is to hook one of the transformer wires to the "COM" terminal of the controller. Touch the other transformer wire to one of the zone terminals. You should see a tiny spark and the sprinklers will come on. If nothing happens then the transformer is bad. If the sprinklers come on, then sorry to say you need a controller.
Since you have 16 zones, the Hunter PRO-C won't work for you. In the Hunter category you will need to go to a ICC model with an 8 zone module. Rainbird LX series will also work. One manufacturer I left out was TORO. They sell the Total Control System now. You could also use an exact replacement.
Hope this is helpful.

Matt