All Sprinkler Zones Run Simultaneously: Controller or Valve Fault?

When all 7 zones on a Rain Bird system activate together and won't shut off from the controller—only the main water stop works—the fault is either valve flow controls wide open or a failed controller.

Immediate Steps

1. At each valve, turn flow control knob (top) fully closed, then open ~½ turn.
2. Unplug controller power (and remove battery) for 5 minutes. Reconnect, reprogram.
3. Test: run one zone manually. Others stay off? Fixed.

If No Change

• Controller output circuitry likely failed (sending 24V to all stations continuously).
• Replace controller. Modern equivalent: Rain Bird ESP-TM2 or ESP-Me.

Why Pink/Purple Wires?

Those are often master valve/pump start and common—not zone wires. Don't guess; check terminal labels.

Start with flow controls and power cycle. 50% chance it's just valves stuck wide open from winter debris.