Identifying Sprinkler System Brand Without a Controller

No Controller Found: How to ID the System

Previous owners didn't leave info; no controller inside or out. Neighbors say system was used.

Check These Locations

• Sprinkler heads: Look for brand stamps (Rain Bird, Hunter, Toro, Nelson, etc.).
• Valve boxes: Open green/black lids in ground; valves often have brand tags.
• Garage/basement/crawlspace: Controller may be hidden on a wall.
• Near electrical panel: Common mounting spot.

System May Be Manual

If no controller exists, it's a manual system: valves turned on by hand (tee-handle with key) or above-ground ball valves.

Mixed Brands Are Normal

Heads, valves, and controller can all be different brands. No single "system brand" exists unless installed as a package.

Best First Step

Locate the valve box(es) and see if valves have solenoids (wires = automatic) or just handles (manual). Then search for the controller.