Irritrol Rain Dial RD1200-INT-R 12 Station Indoor Irrigation Controller User Manual

1. Product Overview

The Irritrol Rain Dial RD1200-INT-R is a 12-station indoor irrigation controller designed for managing automatic watering systems. This controller offers advanced features for efficient and customizable landscape irrigation.

Figure 1: Front view of the Irritrol Rain Dial RD1200-INT-R controller.

Key Features:

• Climate Logic Ready: Automatically adjusts watering schedules based on weather conditions.
• Remote Control Ready: Compatible with CRR (Contractor Residential Remote) remote series for convenient operation.
• Rain Sensor Ready: Includes a sensor bypass switch and dedicated terminal for rain sensor connection.
• Three Independent Programs: Provides programming flexibility to meet diverse plant material needs.
• Water Well Recovery: Offers an option to control pump circuit activation during station delays.

2. Setup and Installation

Before beginning installation, ensure the main power to the irrigation system is turned off at the circuit breaker to prevent electrical shock. It is recommended to take a photograph of existing wiring connections if replacing an old controller for easy reference.

2.1 Removing the Old Controller (if applicable)

1. Locate your existing Rain Dial system, typically on the side of the house or in the garage.
2. Open the controller housing.
3. Perform a visual inspection inside the protective housing for any water damage or corrosion.
4. Identify the four screws holding the terminal wiring board in place. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen these screws.
5. Before disconnecting any wires, take a digital photo or label all wire connections to ensure correct re-installation.
6. Disconnect the 24-volt AC (VAC) connections. Isolate these wires using electrical tape or electrical nuts to prevent accidental contact.
7. Remove the timer module itself by pulling out the 16-to-20 pin ribbon cable.
8. Gently remove the module from its snap-in hinges. The hinges typically remain with the gray case.

Figure 2: Internal view of the Irritrol Rain Dial controller with the cover open, showing wiring terminals and the removable control module.

2.2 Wiring the New Controller

Connect the irrigation zone wires to the corresponding terminals on the new controller's terminal board, following the labels or photographs taken during removal. Ensure all connections are secure.

2.3 Power Connection

Once all wiring is complete and secure, restore power to the irrigation system at the circuit breaker. The controller should power on and be ready for programming.

3. Operating Instructions

The Rain Dial RD1200-INT-R features a user-friendly interface with a central dial for selecting functions and buttons for adjustments. Refer to the quick reference card included with your controller for specific programming steps.

3.1 Basic Programming

Use the central dial to navigate between settings such as current time, start times, run times, and watering days. Follow the on-screen prompts or the quick reference guide to set your desired irrigation schedule for each of the three independent programs (A, B, C).

3.2 Advanced Features

• Climate Logic: If equipped with a Climate Logic sensor, the controller will automatically adjust watering based on local weather data. Ensure the sensor is properly connected and configured.
• Remote Control: For remote operation, ensure your CRR remote is paired with the controller according to the remote's instructions.
• Rain Sensor: Connect a compatible rain sensor to the designated terminals. The controller will automatically suspend irrigation during rainfall when the sensor is active. Use the bypass switch to override the sensor if needed.

4. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your irrigation controller.

• Periodic Inspection: Annually inspect the controller's housing and wiring for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Ensure the cover seals properly to protect internal components from moisture and dust.
• Battery Backup: The controller may include a battery for retaining program settings during power outages. Check and replace this battery periodically as recommended in the quick reference guide.
• Cleaning: Keep the controller's exterior clean using a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Irritrol Rain Dial controller, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• Controller Not Powering On:
  • Check the circuit breaker supplying power to the controller. Ensure it is in the ON position.
  • Verify that the 24 VAC power connections are secure and correctly wired.
  • Inspect the power transformer for any visible damage.
• Sprinklers Not Activating:
  • Ensure the controller is in the 'Run' or 'Auto' mode and not in 'Off' or 'Manual' mode without a program running.
  • Check program settings for correct start times and run durations.
  • Verify that the rain sensor is not active, preventing irrigation. Bypass the sensor if necessary for testing.
  • Inspect wiring connections to the valves for any loose or corroded wires.
• Intermittent or Unscheduled Sprinkler Activation:
  • This can indicate a faulty control module or wiring issue. Ensure all program settings are correct and no unintended start times are set.
  • If the issue persists, consider contacting customer support or a qualified technician.
• Display Issues:
  • If the LCD or LED display is blank or flickering, check power connections and the internal battery.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the documentation provided with your product at the time of purchase or visit the official Irritrol website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.