No Water to Sprinkler System After Copper Main Line Replacement

After installing a new copper main water line to the house, a homeowner found zero water reaching the sprinkler lines. The irrigation tie-in point was verified, and the isolation valve is open. Even connecting a hose from a neighbor's supply during the city disconnect yielded no flow to the irrigation system.

Systematic Troubleshooting

Assuming the water supply is functional post-upgrade and the irrigation connection is downstream of the new line, focus on these areas:

Verify Valve Operation

• Manually open solenoids: If water flows, the issue is electrical (controller or wiring).
• Check for a master valve: Located directly downstream of the point of connection. Ensure it's open and operates with the controller. Manually open both the master valve and a zone valve to test.

Inspect Mainline Integrity

If manual operation fails, the mainline pipe may have a blockage or a kink restricting flow. The anti-siphon (backflow) valve is unlikely to create a vacuum that stops positive flow; these devices typically discharge water rather than block it. Sprinkler laterals provide natural venting as soon as any zone valve opens.

Next Steps

1. Confirm the isolation valve fully opens.
2. Test manual solenoid and master valve operation.
3. If water flows manually but not via controller, investigate wiring.
4. If no water flows manually, inspect the mainline for obstructions or damage.

Provide the controller and valve model numbers for more specific guidance.