Programming Two Valves on Different Schedules with an Irritrol RD-600

Valve 1 runs perfectly on its programmed schedule (daily 45 minutes at 8:30 AM), but valve 2 only operates manually despite being set for 7:30 AM on a different program. Both valves are assigned to separate programs (A and B) with independent start times.

Understanding Program Overlap

The RD-600 runs programs sequentially. If Program A has a start time at 7:30 AM and Program B at 8:30 AM, the controller will run all Program A zones first, then Program B zones. However, each program should operate independently with its own start times.

Critical Setting: Watering Days

The most common oversight is the watering days setting for each program. Even with correct start times and run times, if Program B doesn't have the desired days set to "ON," it will never run automatically. Verify:

• Program A: Desired days = ON, Start time = 8:30 AM, Valve 1 run time = 45 min
• Program B: Desired days = ON, Start time = 7:30 AM, Valve 2 run time = 45 min

When to Seek Professional Help

If days are correctly set and valve 2 still won't run automatically, the controller may have an internal fault. Take it to an irrigation supply house for bench testing, or hire a technician to diagnose whether the issue is the controller module or field wiring.