Testing Rain Bird ESP‑6 Wiring and Solenoids with a Multimeter

Owner provides a wiring diagram for two valves and asks for voltage/ohm test points, acceptable values, and remedies.

Voltage (power on): At controller, negative lead on common (C), positive on zone terminal. Should read 22‑26 VAC. If low, controller or transformer issue.
Voltage at solenoid: Same reading at valve wires. If low here but good at controller, field wire is damaged.
Resistance (power off): Disconnect common and zone wire at controller. Measure ohms between them. 20‑60 Ω is normal. <20 Ω = short; >60 Ω = open circuit.
At solenoid: Disconnect solenoid leads, measure its coil resistance. Same 20‑60 Ω range.

Owner found no voltage at any zone terminal, but 24 VAC at transformer leads. Transformer is faulty – replace it.

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