Multimeter Basics: Troubleshooting an irrigation system using a Multimeter

[@sebaxh22]

Great video!!! Thank you for posting!!

[@Hunter_Industries]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@deanberry7543]

Very helpful! Thanks for including the specific number ranges for good/bad solenoids and transmitters, etc!

[@Hunter_Industries]

Glad it was helpful!

[@farzingharahgozloo]

Helps a lot 🙏🌹

[@Hunter_Industries]

Glad to hear that

[@wstt4]

If I want to test two extra loose irrigation wires for continuity so I can add new zones on them, and I connect these loose wires at a solenoid, and then with my multimeter I touch both same colored ends at the base control box, and I get a reading of 1.0 Ω, is that a good enough result?

[@AlejandroAste-Nieto]

So you created a loop with those wires? You tied them together at one end and tested resistance at the other? Then 1 ohm is a good thing. Your wires have good continuity. Smaller wire gauges will have more resistance the further you go. 18 AWG: 6.5 Ohm / 1,000 ft (multiplied by 2 for the wire to and from the end). So if you have 1 ohm on 18 AWG, that suggests you were 35-40 feet from one end to the other (70-80 feet of wire in a loop).

[@Son_of_Aragorn]

Is 16 AWG "marine wire" good for sprinklers? Wasn't sure if all 16 AWG wire are created equal. Thank you!

[@Hunter_Industries]

Wire can vary with region and wire length. A local contractor or irrigation distributor can clarify.

[@shoyrushoyru]

I have a zone that has recently been causing awful water hammer noises when the sprinkler runs. I tested the AC voltage on the zone while running and it starts 26.2V but then immediately drops to 0V and quickly goes back to 26.2V every couple seconds. Does that sound like a station module issue? The transformer is giving a solid 27 volts. Edit: I replaced the station module and I believe the problem is solved.

[@Hunter_Industries]

Water hammer is a hydraulic or water issue and is independent of electrical issues. It may be time to contact a local irrigation professional for help with your problem.