Why are my sprinklers coming on after a rainfall?

Possible Reasons Include: 

  • Sometimes there isn’t enough rainfall for what the rain sensor is set for. For example, if the rain sensor was set to turn off the irrigation when there is ½” (half inch) of rain fall, and maybe only ¼”(one fourth inch) of rainfall was collected that day. The irrigation system will still turn on.
  • The rain sensor is older or outdated and needs to be replaced. Usually, depending on the type of rain sensor, sensors usually last for about 4-5 years, keeping in mind that some sensors are playful treats for squirrels to nibble on.
  • The connection from the rain sensor to the irrigation controller could be disconnected. Some times after a house was re-roofed the rain sensor is not installed back properly, and sometimes the wire going to the controller is cut due to lawn maintenance or renovations done around the connectors.
  • The controller settings for a rain sensor is set to “Off” or “Bypass.” Some controllers have the option to turn off or bypass the rain sensor. This option is utilized when the user installs new sod and/or wants the irrigation system to run daily. This option is usually turned to the “Off" or “Bypass” setting by home builders wanting to establish their landscape prior to the closing of the new home.  

Show All Answers

1. What is the purpose of the Courtesy Consumption Notice?
2. Why are my sprinklers coming on after a rainfall?
3. Why is the reclaim water pressure very low during the day?
4. When is the best time to irrigate?
5. Why does a zone(s) continue to water after the cycle is complete?
6. How long should I irrigate each zone?