Resetting an old Rain Bird sprinkler controller is a fairly straightforward process that can help get your irrigation system back up and running if it’s acting buggy or not responding properly. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the steps to reset common models of old Rain Bird controllers, as well as provide troubleshooting tips to help you identify when a reset is needed.
When to Reset Your Old Rain Bird Controller
There are a few telltale signs that indicate it’s time to reset your old Rain Bird sprinkler controller:
- The controller screen is frozen or will not respond to button presses
- The programmed watering schedule does not run at the expected times
- Sprinkler zones do not turn on even though the controller says a cycle is running
- You’re experiencing other unexplained irregular behavior from the controller
Essentially, if your old Rain Bird controller is malfunctioning or acting up in any way, performing a reset can often fix the problem. Resetting clears out any corrupted settings or programming errors that may be causing issues.
Preparing to Reset Your Old Rain Bird Controller
Before actually resetting your old Rain Bird controller, there are a few steps you should take to prepare:
- Make note of the current date, time, and any custom watering schedules that are programmed so you can re-enter them after the reset.
- If possible, take photos of the current controller programming for reference.
- Turn the dial to the “Off” position to deactivate any running watering cycles.
- Disconnect the 9V battery if your model has one.
Having all the controller’s prior settings documented will make reprogramming it after the reset much quicker and easier.
Resetting an Old Rain Bird ESP Modular Controller
Rain Bird’s ESP Modular controllers were very popular choices through the 1980s and 90s. Here’s how to reset one:
- Locate the small reset button on the controller’s circuit board.
- Use a pen or paperclip to press and hold the reset button for 5-10 seconds.
- While holding the reset button, turn the dial to the “Run” position.
- Release the reset button and turn the dial back to “Off.”
The display should clear and the controller will reboot into a factory default state. You can then reprogram the date, time, and watering schedules.
Troubleshooting ESP Modular Controller Resets
If resetting your ESP Modular doesn’t resolve the issues, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Check that the controller has power and the transformer is operational.
- Remove the controller housing and inspect for any loose wiring connections.
- Have a multimeter on hand to test voltage outputs as you go through the reset steps.
Resetting the Rain Bird SST Controller Series
Rain Bird’s SST controller series were wall-mounted units popular in the 1990s. Here are the steps to reset one:
- Locate the “Reset” button, usually near the lower right corner.
- Press and hold the Reset button for 5 seconds.
- When the screen goes blank, release the button.
- The controller will reboot into factory default mode.
Follow the prompts to re-enter the current date, time, and any custom watering programs.
Troubleshooting the SST Controller Reset
If your SST controller is still not working properly after a reset attempt, try these tips:
- Verify the controller is getting consistent power from the transformers.
- Check for loose wire connections at the transformer or solenoid outputs.
- Try unplugging the transformer and plugging it back in after 10 seconds.
Resetting the Rain Bird LX Controller Series
Introduced in the late 1990s, the LX series came in both wall-mount and pedestal models. Here’s how to reset one:
- Press and hold the +/- buttons simultaneously for 10 seconds.
- Release the buttons when the “Reset” message appears.
- Turn the dial to “Clear Programs” to erase all watering schedules.
Your LX controller will now be back to the original factory settings so you can reprogram it as needed.
Troubleshooting LX Controller Reset Issues
If your LX controller misbehaves after resetting, these tips may help:
- Make sure the dial is set to “Run” position to execute programs.
- Check for faulty solenoid wiring connections at the valves.
- Have a multimeter on hand to test outputs during the reset process.
Resetting the Rain Bird ISM Wall Mount Controller
The ISM was a popular wall-mounted controller Rain Bird made from the mid 1990s to early 2000s. Here’s how to reset it:
- Locate the reset button near the lower right corner.
- Use a pen or paperclip to press and hold the reset button for 10 seconds.
- Wait for the display to show “Hardware Reset” before releasing.
- Turn the dial to “Clear Programs” to delete any set schedules.
Your ISM Wall Mount controller will now be back to factory default condition so you can reprogram the date, time, and watering schedules.
Troubleshooting ISM Wall Mount Reset Issues
If resetting your ISM controller doesn’t resolve problems, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Check wiring connections for any loose cables or corrosion.
- Have a multimeter handy during reset to test module voltages.
- Clean any debris from the dial switch using compressed air.
Resetting the Rain Bird EC Controller
The Rain Bird EC controller was a popular series introduced in the early 2000s. Here’s how to reset one:
- Press and hold the Next and Previous buttons for 10 seconds.
- Keep holding until the “Resetting…” message displays.
- Release buttons and turn dial to “Clear Programs.”
Your EC controller is now reset back to factory settings so you can re-enter watering programs.
Troubleshooting Rain Bird EC Controller Resets
If your EC controller misbehaves after resetting, try these tips:
- Inspect wiring for any damaged or corroded connections.
- Use a multimeter to check transformer and module voltages.
- Try unplugging the controller for 1 minute and plugging back in.
Conclusion
Resetting your old Rain Bird irrigation controller can often fix common issues and get your sprinkler system functioning properly again. The key steps are accessing the reset button or sequence for your particular model, then reprogramming the controller from scratch.
Be sure to document your settings before resetting, and have a multimeter handy to troubleshoot wiring problems. With a simple reset, you can save the cost of replacing your old Rain Bird controller and keep your lawn and garden happily watered.