Hunter SRC Plus Two Zones Not Working: Electrical Troubleshooting

Hunter SRC Plus Controller: Two Zones Inoperative After Home Purchase

New homeowners inherited a Hunter SRC Plus 6-zone system where 2 zones failed during inspection. One zone worked briefly (4 minutes of 15) then stopped; the other never operated from controller but worked manually at the valve. This indicates electrical issues rather than hydraulic problems.

Diagnosis Strategy

Since manual valve operation works, the valves and hydraulics are functional. The problem lies in the electrical path: controller output, field wiring, or solenoid coils. Required tools: multimeter (volt/ohm).

Step-by-Step Electrical Testing

1. Controller output test: Set meter to VAC. Place black lead on common (C) terminal, red lead on suspect zone terminal. Activate zone. Should read 24-28VAC.
2. If no voltage: Controller terminal damaged. Try different zone terminal if available.
3. If voltage present: Test at valve solenoid. Disconnect wires, measure resistance (ohms). Should be 20-60 ohms.
4. If solenoid OK: Test wire continuity from controller to valve. Look for nicks, cuts, or corrosion.

Common Failure Points

• Wire damage from landscaping/edging
• Corroded wire splices in valve boxes
• Solenoid coil failure (shorted or open)
• Controller terminal burnout from lightning/surge

Next Steps

If comfortable with electrical testing, proceed systematically. Otherwise, consult an irrigation professional. The intermittent operation of one zone suggests a marginal connection or failing solenoid.