Irritrol Valve Stuck Open

[MEXANDME]

On a repair call yesterday, the valve was stuck open (Pond pump, clock, pump start relay). When I turned on the other zones, one at a time, this zone would also come on.

Turn the flow control off and then back on and the problem went away.

What are the chances that the problem will reappear? I told the homeowner to keep an eye on it because I was not sure if it was really fixed or not.

Thanks / Regards,

Mex

[AI Inc]

Chances are real good, should have rebuilt it when there.

[hoskm01]

Chances are real good, should have rebuilt it when there.
Indeed. Probably dirtier than a Vegas hooker inside.

[FIMCO-MEISTER]

A condom repair won't fix this one. You are going to have to really clean it out.

You could have another problem though but I'd do the clean up first and see if that doesn't fix it good.

[Mike Leary]

After you clean it up, make sure the flow control is adjusted correctly; turn it down until you can see the flow change, then back it off a quarter turn or so.

[bicmudpuppy]

I would bet with ML on this one. Chances are real good that the flow control was the only problem in the first place. Did you shut the flow control down with the water running? Many times, "helping" the diaphragm to close by running the flow control down to the point it keeps the diaphragm from inverting is all you have to do. Almost every old brass valve I ever touched would open to far. 2-3 turns down on the flow was automatic, and you don't know you have it "right" until you do it just like Mike said. Run it down until you cause a restriction and then back it off a bit.

[Wet_Boots]

You can even back off more, and still have improved the valve operation. For ASVs getting full sun, it doesn't pay to get too cute with the adjustments.