Hunter SRC "ERR" Message: Finding the Short Circuit

An "ERR" display on a Hunter SRC controller indicates a short circuit in the field wiring or a solenoid. Removing the fuse temporarily clears the error, but the fault remains. Here's how to isolate the problem zone.

What "ERR" Means

The controller's current-sensing circuit detects excessive amperage on a zone output—typically a shorted solenoid coil, nicked wire insulation, or water-filled splice. The fuse (if present) protects the controller's output driver.

Systematic Isolation Procedure

1. Power down completely: Unplug transformer, remove battery.
2. Reinstall fuse (if removed).
3. Power up without battery (or press reset button in wiring compartment).
4. Activate zones one at a time manually from controller.
5. Watch for "ERR": The zone that triggers "ERR" is the faulted circuit.

Testing the Faulted Zone

Once identified (e.g., zone 3):

1. Disconnect zone 3 wire at controller terminal.
2. Measure solenoid resistance at valve: should be 20–60 Ω.
3. Check continuity from controller to valve—should be low resistance (wire only).
4. Inspect all splices for water intrusion, corrosion, or bare wire contact.

Common Culprits

• Solenoid plunger stuck/shorted (replace solenoid)
• Wire nicked by edging/weed whacker (repair with waterproof splice)
• Valve box flooded—water in wire nuts (re-splice with gel connectors)
• Multiple zones on one wire (miswired)

Reset After Repair

After fixing the fault: power down, remove battery, wait 2 minutes, reconnect. Controller clears "ERR" memory. Run full test cycle to confirm.