Sprinkler Zone Not Turning On? Here's Why
When one or more irrigation zones refuse to activate, it's frustrating and potentially damaging to your landscape. Learn the 7 most common causes and how to fix them—or when to call a professional.
You press the button on your irrigation controller, but nothing happens. One zone stays silent while others work fine. This common problem has several possible causes, ranging from simple fixes to issues requiring professional repair.
7 Common Causes of Non-Working Zones
7 Common Causes of Non-Working Zones Overview
1. Faulty Valve Solenoid
The solenoid is an electromagnetic coil that opens the valve when the controller sends a signal. If it fails, the valve stays closed and the zone won't activate.
Symptoms:
- Zone doesn't turn on when activated
- No clicking sound at the valve
- Controller shows the zone is running but no water flows
Solution: Test the solenoid with a multimeter (should read 20-60 ohms). Replace if faulty. Arizona's extreme heat accelerates solenoid failure.
2. Broken or Disconnected Wiring
Wires connecting the controller to the valve can break, corrode, or disconnect. This prevents the electrical signal from reaching the solenoid.
Symptoms:
- Zone won't activate from controller
- Controller may show an error code
- Zone worked previously but suddenly stopped
Solution: Inspect wire connections at the controller and valve. Look for cuts, corrosion, or loose connections. Repair or replace damaged wiring.
3. Stuck or Clogged Valve Diaphragm
The diaphragm inside the valve controls water flow. Dirt, debris, or mineral buildup can prevent it from opening, even when the solenoid activates correctly.
Symptoms:
- Solenoid clicks but no water flows
- Weak or intermittent water flow
- Zone takes a long time to start
Solution: Open the valve, remove the diaphragm, and clean thoroughly. Check for tears or damage. Replace if worn. Arizona's hard water accelerates buildup.
4. Controller Programming Error
The zone may be disabled in the controller settings, have a run time set to zero, or be affected by a rain delay or seasonal adjustment.
Symptoms:
- Zone skips during automatic watering
- Manual test works but automatic schedule doesn't
- Controller display shows zone is off or disabled
Solution: Check controller settings. Verify the zone is enabled, has a run time set, and isn't affected by rain delay or seasonal adjustments.
5. Blown Fuse or Tripped Breaker
Power surges, lightning strikes, or short circuits can blow the controller's internal fuse or trip the circuit breaker, preventing all zones or specific zones from working.
Symptoms:
- Controller display is blank or shows error
- Multiple zones stopped working simultaneously
- Occurred after a storm or power outage
Solution: Check the circuit breaker and controller fuse. Replace blown fuse or reset breaker. Consider surge protection for monsoon season.
6. Low Voltage or Transformer Failure
The controller's transformer converts household voltage (120V) to low voltage (24V) for the valves. If it fails, zones won't receive enough power to activate.
Symptoms:
- No zones work or only some work intermittently
- Valves click weakly or not at all
- Controller display is dim or flickering
Solution: Test transformer output with a multimeter (should read 24-28V AC). Replace if voltage is low or absent.
7. Closed Manual Shutoff Valve
Many systems have manual shutoff valves (ball valves or gate valves) upstream of zone valves. If accidentally closed, water can't reach the zone even when the valve opens.
Symptoms:
- Valve activates (you hear clicking) but no water flows
- Occurred after winterization or system maintenance
- Other zones on the same line also don't work
Solution: Locate and fully open all manual shutoff valves. Check mainline valve, zone isolation valves, and backflow preventer valves.
Quick Troubleshooting Steps
Quick Troubleshooting Steps Overview
Before calling a professional, try these diagnostic steps:
- Test manually at the controller: Try activating the zone manually to rule out programming issues
- Listen for the valve: Go to the valve box and listen for a clicking sound when activating the zone
- Check for water flow: If the valve clicks, check if any water reaches the sprinkler heads
- Inspect wiring: Look for obvious damage, corrosion, or disconnected wires
- Test other zones: Determine if the problem affects one zone or multiple zones
- Check power: Verify the controller has power and the display is functioning
When to Call a Professional
When to Call a Professional Overview
While some fixes are DIY-friendly (checking settings, opening valves), others require expertise and specialized tools. Call Arizona Irrigation Repair if:
- You can't locate the valve or valve box
- Electrical testing is required (solenoid, wiring, transformer)
- Multiple zones are affected simultaneously
- The problem persists after basic troubleshooting
- You need valve or controller replacement
Arizona Irrigation Repair: Zone Repair Experts
With 29+ years of experience in Phoenix Metro, we diagnose and repair non-working zones quickly. Our technicians carry common parts (solenoids, diaphragms, wiring) on every truck for same-day repairs.
- Licensed and insured professionals
- Upfront pricing before we start work
- Emergency service available
- All brands and system types
Get Your Zone Working Again
Get Your Zone Working Again Overview
Don't let a non-working zone damage your landscape. We diagnose and fix zone problems fast.