Starting a Hydrotek 1000 / Nelson Smart Zone EZ System

Moving into a home with an existing Hydrotek 1000 indexing valve and Nelson Smart Zone EZ controller? Here's the startup sequence:

Step-by-Step Spring Startup

1. Locate the main irrigation shutoff. Usually in basement/crawlspace where irrigation main tees off house supply. Turn slowly to avoid water hammer.
2. Find the Hydrotek 1000 valve (large plastic body, usually in ground box). Trace pipe from main shutoff to it.
3. Open manual drain valves (if any) at low points to purge air.
4. Plug in / power on the Nelson controller. Replace 9V backup battery.
5. Run each zone manually from controller (1–2 min each). Watch for:
   • Head rotation & coverage
   • Leaks at heads or fittings
   • Proper indexing (Hydrotek advances zones mechanically)
6. Adjust heads for arc, radius, level.
7. Set schedule on controller for current season.

Hydrotek 1000 Specifics

• It's a hydraulic indexing valve—water pressure advances it zone-to-zone. No wires to the valve.
• Controller only sends 24VAC to pump start relay (if on well) or master valve (if on city water).
• If zones don't advance, check Hydrotek's internal piston/cam for wear (see Article 5321).

When to Call a Pro

If no water moves, valves don't index, or you can't find components—pay for a 1-hour "system orientation" visit. You'll learn your specific layout and avoid costly mistakes.