Irrigation System Dead After Yard Work: Cut Wire or Closed Valve

After landscaping work, a system that clicks at the meter but delivers no water has two likely causes: the main irrigation supply valve is closed, or a control wire was severed during digging.

Checklist

1. Main irrigation valve: Usually near house main shutoff or water meter. Ensure fully open (handle parallel to pipe).
2. Backflow preventer test cocks: Both should be closed (screws perpendicular to flow).
3. Valve box inspection: Look for fresh dirt, cut wires, damaged valves.
4. Controller test: Run zone 1 manually. Listen for solenoid click at valve box.

If Valve Clicks But No Water

• Supply valve not fully open
• Debris in valve seat (from pressure surge when reopened)
• Mainline break between meter and valves

If No Click at Valves

• Cut control wire (common or hot)
• Controller fuse blown
• Wire disconnected at controller during work

Wire Repair

Use gel-filled waterproof connectors (3M DBR/Y or King Innovation). Strip ½", twist, push into connector until wires seat. No tape needed.

Start with the main valve—it's the most common post-landscaping issue.