Wiring an Orbit Wireless Rain/Freeze Sensor (57071) to Rain Bird ESP-6si

Controller Lacks Dedicated Sensor Terminals

The ESP-6si has no "SENSOR" terminals. The wireless sensor must be wired into the common circuit to interrupt valve power when rain/freeze is detected.

Wiring Procedure

1. Power the sensor: Connect the two RED wires from the sensor receiver to the controller's 24VAC terminals (where the transformer wires land).
2. Interrupt the common: Disconnect the valve common wire(s) (usually white) from the controller's COM terminal.
3. Connect sensor WHITE wire to the controller's COM terminal.
4. Connect the valve common wire(s) to the sensor's YELLOW wire.

How It Works

The sensor acts as a switch in the common path. When activated (rain/freeze), it opens the common circuit—power goes out the zone wire but can't return via common, so the valve won't open. All zones share the common, so one sensor protects the whole system.

Important Notes

• Use waterproof wire connectors at the valve box.
• Mount receiver per manufacturer instructions for reliable signal.
• Test by manually activating sensor—zones should not run.