New Home Sprinkler Issue: Zone 1 Runs Continuously With All Zones

Zone 1 Stays On Through Zones 2‑5; Valve 1 Not Located

Valve operation: controller sends 24 VAC to solenoid → plunger lifts → valve opens. Power removed → plunger drops → valve closes.

Three Likely Causes

1. Controller shorting—zone 1 terminal energized whenever any zone runs.
2. Zone 1 hot wire frayed, contacting other zone wires in the field.
3. System has a master valve (check controller for wire on "MV" or "PS" terminal). If master valve is zone 1, it stays open while any zone runs.

Use a wire tracer (rent or hire) to locate the missing valve 1.