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Sprinkler Zone Stuck On: Controller or Solenoid?

A 7-year-old system developed a stuck zone that won't shut off, even with the controller unplugged. The issue is almost certainly the valve, not the controller.

Diagnosis and Repair

Locate the valve box for the affected zone in the yard.
Dig carefully to expose the valve.
Remove and clean the solenoid: Debris often holds the plunger open. Cleaning may resolve it.
If cleaning fails, replace the solenoid or the entire valve top assembly.

Provide the valve model number for specific disassembly instructions. The controller is rarely the culprit when a zone runs with power disconnected.

Irrigation: Troubleshooting Old Hardie HR6100 Zone That Won't Auto-Shutoff; KwikDial Controller: All Zones Show Voltage Simultaneously—Controller Failed; Toro Zone 1 Stays On All Cycle—Controller or Diaphragm; Hunter XC Station 1 Won't Activate from Controller—Valve Works Manually; Sprinkler Solenoid Testing After Controller Voltage Confirmed—Ohmmeter Method; Hunter Pro-C No Zones Run: Transformer Failed (0.02V); Toro Controller Blows Fuse Intermittently – Locate Valves with Wire Tracer; Zone 1 Valve Won't Run Auto – Valve Backwards or Defective; SlimDial Timer: Zone Stays On After Off – Valve or Controller?; Sprinkler Pump Runs But No Water After Check Valve Replacement

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