Galcon AC-6 6-Station Indoor Irrigation Controller User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, programming, operation, and maintenance of your Galcon AC-6 6-Station Indoor Irrigation Controller. Designed for indoor residential use, this controller manages up to six irrigation control valves plus a master valve/pump start, suitable for sprinkler, drip, or soaker irrigation systems. Please read these instructions carefully before operating the device to ensure proper function and longevity.

2. Safety Information

• The controller is intended for indoor installation only, or in a cabinet or other protected, dry location.
• Connect the controller to an electric outlet dedicated to it alone.
• Ensure all wiring is performed by a qualified individual and complies with local electrical codes.
• Disconnect power before performing any maintenance or wiring.
• This product is designed for use only in the USA and Canada (120V AC).

3. Product Overview

The Galcon AC-6 is an indoor irrigation controller featuring a large, easy-to-program LCD screen and four buttons for intuitive operation. It offers flexible scheduling options and advanced water-saving features.

Key Features:

• Controls up to 6 irrigation control valves + Master Valve/Pump Start.
• Independent programming for each valve.
• Ability to operate two valves simultaneously.
• Programming options: Daily/Weekly or Cyclic (every 1 to 30 days).
• Irrigation duration from 1 minute to 12 hours.
• Up to 4 start times per valve for daily/weekly programming.
• Sensor input for rain sensor, soil moisture sensor, etc., assignable to individual valves.
• Monthly Water Budgeting (10% - 190% adjustment).
• Rain Delay up to 30 days with auto-restart.
• Automatic, Semi-automatic, and Manual modes.
• Automatic short circuit detection with visible alarm and continued irrigation for other valves.

Figure 1: Galcon AC-6 6-Station Irrigation Controller with its protective cover open, showing the LCD screen and control buttons.

Figure 2: Overview of Galcon 8006 AC-6 6-Station Controller highlighting features like daily/cyclic programming and durable design.

4. Setup and Installation

4.1 Mounting the Controller

• Remove the mounting plate from the back of the controller.
• Mount it on the wall or in a cabinet at a convenient height, ensuring a protected, dry location.
• Press the controller against the mounting plate and push upwards to secure it.

4.2 Wiring Connections

Ensure all wiring is completed before applying power. The terminal block includes connections for the master valve (M), common wires (C), AC power, and individual valve outputs (1-6). The transmission cable carries 24VAC only.

• Master Valve (M): Connect your master valve wire to the 'M' terminal.
• Common Wires (C): Connect common wires from your valves to the 'C' terminals. There are two 'C' terminals for convenience.
• AC Power: Connect the two black wires from your AC transformer to the 'AC' terminals. The polarity does not matter.
• Valve Outputs (1-6): Connect individual control wires for each valve to the corresponding numbered terminals (1 through 6).
• Rain Sensor: If using a rain sensor, unscrew the two screws on the sensor input terminals, remove the jumper wire, and connect the rain sensor wires.
• Use color-coded wires for convenient connection.
• For valves located more than 100 meters away, consult a local dealer for appropriate wire diameter.
• Route transmission cables properly, using cable clamps or suitable protective piping if underground.

Figure 3: Close-up of the wiring terminals on the Galcon AC-6 controller, showing connections for master valve, common, AC power, and individual valves.

4.3 Battery Backup Installation

The controller uses a 9V battery for backup, allowing programming without AC power and retaining settings during power outages. To install:

1. Locate the battery compartment at the bottom of the unit.
2. Twist the cover counter-clockwise to open, aligning the arrow on the cover with the open symbol.
3. Connect a new 9V battery to the battery connector.
4. Gently slide the battery into the compartment.
5. Replace the cover, aligning the arrow with the closed symbol, and twist clockwise until secure. Ensure a tight seal for water resistance.

5. Operation and Programming

The controller features four main buttons for programming: Enter (leftmost circular arrow), Minus (-), Plus (+), and Right Arrow (rightmost circular arrow). The video in Section 4.3 provides a visual guide to these steps.

5.1 Setting Current Time and Day

1. Press the Right Arrow button until the hour display flashes.
2. Use the Minus (-) or Plus (+) buttons to adjust the hour.
3. Press the Right Arrow button to move to the minutes display.
4. Use the Minus (-) or Plus (+) buttons to adjust the minutes.
5. Press the Right Arrow button to move to the day of the week.
6. Use the Plus (+) button to cycle through the days until the correct day is highlighted.
7. Press the Enter button to save the time and day settings.

5.2 Programming Valve Duration and Cycle

This controller allows for independent programming of each valve.

1. Press the Enter button to enter programming mode. The 'valve' icon and '1' (for valve 1) will appear.
2. Use the Plus (+) or Minus (-) buttons to select the desired valve (1-6).
3. Press Enter. The 'duration' field will flash.
4. Use the Right Arrow button to navigate between hours and minutes.
5. Use the Plus (+) or Minus (-) buttons to set the desired irrigation duration for the selected valve.
6. Press Enter. The 'days' field will flash.
7. Use the Right Arrow button to cycle through daily/weekly options or cyclic options (e.g., 'once', 'every 2 days', etc.).
8. Use the Plus (+) or Minus (-) buttons to select the desired irrigation cycle.
9. Press Enter to save the duration and cycle settings.

5.3 Setting Start Times

Up to 4 start times can be set per valve when using daily/weekly programming.

1. After setting duration and cycle, press Enter again. The 'starts' field will flash, showing 'OFF' or a previous start time.
2. Use the Right Arrow button to navigate between hours and minutes.
3. Use the Plus (+) or Minus (-) buttons to set the desired start time.
4. Press Enter to save the start time.
5. Repeat for additional start times (up to 4). If no more start times are needed, ensure the remaining 'starts' are set to 'OFF'.

5.4 Rain Sensor and Manual Rain Off

• The 'sensor' indicator on the display shows the status of the connected rain sensor (if installed).
• The 'manual rain off' option allows you to temporarily suspend irrigation for a set number of days (up to 30 days) due to rain or other reasons.

6. Maintenance

• Battery Replacement: Replace the 9V battery annually or when the 'Low Battery' indicator appears on the display. Follow the steps in Section 4.3.
• Cleaning: Wipe the controller's exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Inspection: Periodically check wiring connections for corrosion or looseness. Ensure the battery compartment seal is intact.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

• Model: GAE2S0002U1
• Color: White
• Brand: Galcon
• Voltage: 120 Volts (AC)
• Material: Plastic
• Display Type: LCD
• Item Type Name: 6 Station Zone Irrigation Controller Automatic Sprinkler System
• Included Components: Watering Timer / User Manual
• Operating Temperature: 68 Degrees Fahrenheit (20°C)

9. Warranty and Support

The Galcon AC-6 6-Station Indoor Irrigation Controller comes with a 3-year manufacturer warranty. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or warranty claims, please contact Galcon customer service. Refer to the contact information provided with your product packaging or visit the official Galcon website.