A rain sensor is intended to interrupt or adjust irrigation when enough rain has fallen. If your sprinklers run during a downpour, the sensor may be bypassed, miswired, damaged, or simply unable to communicate with the controller.
Check whether the sensor is bypassed
Many controllers have a rain-sensor bypass switch or setting. If bypass is enabled, the irrigation schedule can continue even if the sensor itself is functioning.
Inspect sensor wiring
Traditional wired sensors depend on a low-voltage circuit back to the controller. Damaged wire, corroded connections, or incorrect terminals can prevent the controller from recognizing the sensor.
Wireless sensors have additional failure points
Wireless models may have battery, pairing, receiver, or range issues. The controller or receiver may also provide a status indicator that helps identify the problem.
Weather-based controllers work differently
Some smart controllers use internet weather data rather than—or in addition to—a physical rain sensor. In that case, location settings, connectivity, and weather-service configuration can affect watering behavior.
Bloomfield Hills Irrigation troubleshoots irrigation controllers, rain sensors, wiring, valves, and smart-control issues. Call or text (248) 970-0700.
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