One of the most common reasons for a station not to turn on is dirty solenoid exhaust ports, occasionally it can be an electrical issue (wiring or solenoid coil not properly retracting the plunger) or simply mechanical damage (ie squashed by a car), both topics I intend to cover in subsequent posts.

The most common reason, and the reason we shall cover today, for a valve to remain closed is dirt or calcification trapped in the insides of the valve.

There a few causes for this annoying outcome:

• An initial installation that was completed without properly flushing the system.

• A recent mainline repair, again without proper flushing.

• A property with poor quality bore water, bore water can contain debris and particulates which make their way into the valve body. 

The resolutions to these issues is the same and outlined below:

• Ensure the flow is on at the mainline for this test.

• Locate the bleed screw on the valve and turn it counter-clockwise to manually open the valve, if this works there is most likely a blocked port.

Ensure that you SHUT OFF the main water supply. There is a high potential for injury from the stored pressure in the system, please also release the bleed screw prior to opening the valve.

• Dependant upon the make and model of your valve you will need to either unscrew the jar top or remove the bonnet screws to gain access to the interior of the valve. Note that the interior contains a spring loaded diaphragm that you should make an attempt not to lose.

• Check the diaphragm and spring for any obvious damage or deformation. The diaphragm should be clean and free of wrinkles, tears, or perforations. The seal should be clean and free of nicks, dents or abrasions. Wash the diaphragm, spring and seat in a bucket of dish soap to remove any build-up.

• Locate the exhaust port and run a thin piece of wire through it to clear any build up or debris from within.

• Rebuild the valve and test the system.

Looking for more information on Re-Building Valves? Check out HOW TO RE-BUILD AN IRRIGATION SOLENOID VALVE for more information.

If you have completed all of the above and you still have a faulty valve, it will most likely need replacing or an electrical evaluation.

Model: Hunter PGV BSP Solenoid Valve