Automatic lawn sprinklers are easy to use, but the timers stop working over time.It's easy to replace a unit if you have a few simple tools.All you have to do is remove the old timer and connect the wires to the new one.If your lawn gets watered on schedule, you can reset the program once they are plugged in.
Step 1: The old controller needs to be turned off.
Sprinkler timers can either be plugged into an outlet or hardwired into the electrical system.If the system is plugged into an outlet, remove it from the wall.Turn off the circuit that controls the timer if it is hardwired.Check that the display on the timer is off.Since you could get shocked, never work on your sprinkler timer while it's plugged in.
Step 2: The access panel is on your timer.
The access panel can be found at the bottom of the timer.Remove the panel cover.You may need to use a screwdriver to remove the faceplate if the timer doesn't have an access panel that pops right off.
Step 3: The power wires need to be disconnected from your timer.
The power wires are made of different colors.If there are any wires that need to be untwisted, remove the wire caps.You can remove the timer unit from the power wires if you separate them.Some timer models have power wires in a different access panel.
Step 4: The sprinkler wires should be labeled with pieces of tape.
Your sprinkler wires can be found inside your timer.The sprinkler wires should be labeled with the number of the port they are plugged into by wrapping a small piece of masking tape around them.When you put in your new unit, you should know what stations to plug your wires into.You can tell which wires control an area if you have tape or labels on them.
Step 5: The sprinkler wires need to be removed from the timer.
To remove the wire from the unit, use a screwdriver to loosen the connection.Press down on the tab with the end of the screwdriver to make it easier to remove the wire from the timer.Pull out the wires from the timer once they are disconnected.
Step 6: Remove the controller from the wall.
There are screws in the middle of the timer on the top and bottom.To loosen the top screw and remove the bottom screw, use a screwdriver.You can remove the unit completely by lifting it up and off of the wall.You can use the top screw to hang the sprinkler unit, but the bottom screw may not be in the same place.
Step 7: You need a timer that has enough stations for the sprinklers.
Make sure the timer unit you buy has the same number of stations as you need.It is okay if the unit has more stations that you need, but not if you have less.Most units have at least one station built into the system.
Step 8: Attach the timer to the wall.
Attach the screw mounting to your wall to hang the top of the timer.Attach the timer to the wall with a screwdriver and tighten the screw inside the unit.There is a mounting hole near the bottom of the timer and another screw to attach it to the wall.Attach anchor screws to hold your timer securely if you are mounting on concrete.Make sure the cord can reach the outlet if the unit plugs directly into the wall.
Step 9: Plug the station wires into your timer.
The wires should be in the access panel of the new unit.The wires should be put in the stations that match their label.If the unit has screw connections, tighten the screw with a screwdriver and hold the wire underneath it.Feed the wire into the port if your timer has tab connections.The tab needs to be released to have a tight grip.Attach the white wire to the port labeled Common.
Step 10: Attach the power wires to the timer.
Match the power wires that run out to your sprinklers with the black, white, and green wires in the unit.The current can run between the wires if they are twisted together.Place wire caps on the exposed ends of the wires.If you have wires in an outdoor timer unit, make sure to use waterproof wire caps.
Step 11: To see if the timer works, turn on the power and test the sprinklers.
Plug in your sprinkler timer and turn on the circuit it is connected to.After a few seconds, the display on your timer will turn on.To test each sprinkler connection, turn your controller on.Make sure the sprinklers are working correctly.If the sprinklers don't work, turn off the power and check for loose wire connections inside the unit.
Step 12: The sprinkler schedule should be adjusted on the new unit.
If you want your sprinklers to run at the correct times, you need to set the current time and date of your timer.You can change the time when your sprinklers turn on by turning the dial to "Set Watering Start Times".Set how long the sprinklers will run.You have the option to let your sprinklers run every day or specific days of the week.To learn how to set the schedule, follow the manufacturer's instructions.You can set the program from your computer or mobile device if your timer uses a wi-fi connection.