Quick answer: A powered controller does not guarantee that the valves are receiving usable power or that water can flow. The issue may be programming, a sensor interruption, field wiring, a failed common wire, solenoids, valves or the irrigation water supply.
What “controller has power” actually proves
It confirms the controller itself is receiving electrical power. It does not prove that output voltage reaches each valve or that a valve can open hydraulically.
Check the simple settings first
- Run a zone manually rather than waiting for a schedule
- Check rain-delay, seasonal-off and sensor status
- Confirm start times and watering days if automatic operation is the only problem
- Verify the irrigation water supply is open
If no zones work
A problem shared by all zones can involve the common wire, master valve or pump configuration where present, controller output, or the water supply.
If only one zone fails
Focus on that zone’s wire, solenoid and valve. See why one sprinkler zone may not work and our wire tracing and valve locating service.
