Whether you’re going from basic to smart, or just updating an old box, the steps are about the same. If you’ve got a screwdriver and can match wire colors, you’re already halfway there.
Step 1: Turn Off Power to the Controller
- If it’s plugged into an outlet, just unplug it.
- If it’s hardwired, turn off the breaker to be safe.
You don’t want any juice flowing while you’re messing with the wires.
Step 2: Take a Picture of the Wiring
Before you touch anything—take a clear photo of the wire connections on the old controller. You’ll thank yourself later.
Most setups have:
- Common wire (usually white)
- Zone wires (usually red, blue, green, etc.)
- Optional: rain sensor, pump start relay, master valve wires
Label them with tape if needed.
Step 3: Disconnect and Remove the Old Controller
- Unscrew the terminal screws
- Gently pull the wires out
- Unscrew the mounting hardware and take the old box off the wall
Keep the screws and anchors—you might reuse them.
Step 4: Mount the New Controller
- Line up the mounting holes
- Use screws and anchors to attach it firmly to the wall (indoor or outdoor depending on the model)
- If it’s a smart controller, make sure it’s in a spot with Wi-Fi signal (or near an outlet if plug-in)
Step 5: Reconnect the Wires
Match the wires to the same terminals on your new controller:
| Terminal | What It Does | Wire |
|---|---|---|
| C or COM | Common wire | White or Black |
| 1, 2, 3… | Zone wires | Red, Blue, Green, etc. |
| MV or P | Master valve or pump start | Usually separate |
Tighten the screws and give each wire a gentle tug to make sure it’s secure.
Use waterproof wire nuts or gel caps for outdoor controllers.
Step 6: Plug It In and Power Up
- Plug in or restore breaker power
- The controller should power up and run its startup
If it’s a smart controller like Rachio, Hunter Hydrawise, or Orbit B-Hyve, follow the setup steps using their app.
Step 7: Program the Zones
You’ll want to:
- Name each zone (like “Front Lawn” or “Side Bed”)
- Set watering times, durations, and days
- Add a seasonal adjustment or weather sync feature if available
For smart controllers: You can skip most of this and let the app handle it automatically based on Seattle’s weather.
Step 8: Test Each Zone
Run a manual cycle to make sure:
- Every zone turns on
- Sprinklers spray as expected
- Nothing leaks or short circuits
Mr. Lee’s Seattle Pro Tips
- Wi-Fi controllers like Rachio 3 and Hydrawise are great for our wet/dry swings—they’ll skip watering when it rains.
- Backup the schedule if the controller has a battery slot.
- Mount outdoor controllers in a weatherproof box, even if they say they’re “outdoor rated.”
Need Help Upgrading?
We install and program irrigation controllers all over Seattle—whether you’re going smart, upgrading zones, or just replacing a fried box. We’ll make sure it’s weather-accurate, zone-optimized, and future-proofed.
