How to Test Solenoid Valve

Solenoid valve is an important part of any timing electronic water system. It allows water to pass through specific pipes and is therefore critical to the correct operation of the system. If you find that no water is being sent to a specific area of your garden, or you find that the plants in the greenhouse are not watered, then a quick test of the valve should tell you whether this is the cause of your problem.

Step 1-positioning solenoid valve

Remove the electronic water timer from the faucet and remove the back with a screwdriver. The solenoid valve will be inside, connected to the timing mechanism and the inlet flow device. It consists of two parts: a coil of copper wire (forming a solenoid) and a plastic plunger (forming a valve). You can keep this part in the timer, but you may need to remove the battery or power from the timer before performing any type of test.

Step 2-Test with a multimeter

The fastest way to test a solenoid valve is to charge it directly. There are two wires running directly above the valve, because it is located in the timer and you will touch it with a multimeter. This will deliver charge to the valve, and if it is working properly, it will open. If you want to make sure that you apply enough power to the valve, then you can take a light bulb or flashlight and fix it to the wire while the multimeter is supplying power. A full charge will light the bulb. If the voltage is correct but the valve is not open, the entire solenoid valve needs to be removed and replaced.

Step 3-Perform home-made tests

For those who are not lucky enough to own a multimeter, you can use a light bulb and battery for another simple test. Press the battery onto the wire around the solenoid valve, and then use a flashlight or light bulb to test whether enough power passes. The light bulb should be on, just like a multimeter, if the valve is working, then it should also be on.

The above information is provided by copper irrigation valve manufacturer.