Manuals+

Hunter Controllers Troubleshooting and Warranty

For online examples, visit: http://www.hunterindustries.com/support/trainingvideos/

Warranty Check List

Step 1: Eligibility

Step 2: Pre-Troubleshooting Checks

Ensure you have checked the relevant controller's 'Reset', 'Quick Check', 'Quick Test', and 'Troubleshooting Guide' sections.

Step 3: Warranty Claim (If Applicable)

Dealer/Contractor: ..................................................................................

Date of Purchase: ..............................................................

Sales Representative: ..............................................................................

If out of warranty, please contact your dealer to discuss repair options.

XC Hybrid Troubleshooting Guide

Problem Causes Solutions
The Controller is continuously watering Too many start times have been programmed. Only one start time is necessary to activate a program.
There is no display Check batteries or AC power. Correct any errors.
Display reads "off" The rain sensor is interrupting irrigation or the sensor jumper has been removed. Slide the rain sensor bypass switch to BYPASS position to bypass the rain sensor circuit or reinstall the jumper. Verify operation of rain sensor and proper wiring.
Rain sensor will not shut off the system Jumper was not removed when sensor was installed. Stations have been programmed to override the sensor. Remove jumper from the sensor terminals. Reprogram the sensor override to enable the sensor.
Frozen display, or showing incorrect information Power Surge. Reset the controller.
Display shows a station is running but the umbrella and sprinkler icons are flashing The sensor is interrupting irrigation, however the station has been programmed to override the sensor. Check the programmable Sensor Override status.
Automatic irrigation does not start at the start time and controller is not in the System Off mode AM/PM of time/day not set correctly. AM/PM of start time not set correctly. Start Time is disabled (set on OFF). Batteries are dead. Controller is not receiving AC power (if using a transformer). Correct AM/PM time. Correct AM/PM time. Check Program start times. Replace Batteries. Check AC power connections.

XC Hybrid Quick Check and Reset Features

Clearing the Controller's Memory/Resetting the Controller

To reset the controller to factory defaults and erase all programs:

  1. Press and hold the [←] button.
  2. Press and release the reset button in the lower wiring compartment.
  3. Wait 2 seconds and release the [←] button.

The display should show 12:00 AM. The controller may now be reprogrammed.

Easy Retrieve™ Program Memory

To save the program:

  1. With the dial in the RUN position, press and hold the [←] and [→] buttons for 5 seconds.
  2. The display will scroll three segments indicating the program is saved.
  3. Release the [←] and [→] buttons.

To retrieve a saved program:

  1. With the dial in the RUN position, press and hold the [←] and [→] buttons for 5 seconds.
  2. The display will scroll three segments indicating the program is being retrieved.
  3. Release the [←] and [→] buttons.

Programmable Delay Between Stations

Insert a delay between stations:

  1. Start with the dial in the RUN position.
  2. Press and hold the [←] button while turning the dial to the RUN TIMES position.
  3. Release the [←] button.
  4. The display will show a delay time for all stations in seconds, flashing.
  5. Press the [←] or [→] buttons to adjust the delay time between 20 seconds and 4 hours.
  6. Return the dial to the RUN position.

X Core Troubleshooting Guide

Problem Causes Solutions
The Controller is continually watering Too many start times have been programmed. Only one start time is necessary to activate a program.
There is no display Check AC power wiring. Correct any errors.
The display reads "NO AC" There is no AC power present, or the controller is not receiving any power. Check to see if the transformer is properly installed.
Rain sensor will not shut off the system Defective rain sensor. Jumper was not removed when sensor was installed. Stations have been programmed to override the sensor. Verify operation of rain sensor and proper wiring. Remove jumper from the sensor terminals. Reprogram the sensor override to enable the sensor.
Display shows ERR with a number (1-8) Short in valve wiring circuit, or faulty solenoid on the station number indicated. Check wire circuit or solenoid for the valve number indicated. Repair short or replace solenoid. Press any button to clear the ERR from the display.
Frozen display or showing incorrect information Power Surge. Reset the controller.
Display shows P ERR Faulty pump relay or master valve wiring. Incompatible or defective relay or solenoid. Undersized wire to the pump relay or master valve. Check wiring to relay or master valve solenoid. Press any button to clear the error. Check electrical specification for the pump relay. Do not exceed controller's electrical rating. Replace defective. Replace wire length.
Seasonal Adjust Seems too high Region too low. Water Adjustment setting too high. Decrease the value of the Water Adjustment setting. If you minimize the Water Adjustment scale at 1 and still require reduced seasonal adjustment, move up one Region. Solar Sync will immediately update the Seasonal Adjust on the controller. If it is still too high, repeat the adjustment until the desired seasonal adjust is showing on the controller.
Solar Sync still sending Seasonal Adjust when Controller Bypass switch is in the 'Bypass' position Solar Sync's automated Seasonal Adjustment cannot be de-activated by the Bypass switch. The Bypass switch only controls the Rain/Freeze shut off function of the Solar Sync. N/A
After removing the Solar Sync sensor from the controller the seasonal adjust value cannot be changed manually The Solar Sync sensor needs to be uninstalled if permanently removing it from the controller. Turn the knob to Solar Sync Settings. The screen should show dashed lines. The sensor is now uninstalled.
Display shows "no SS" Solar Sync sensor has been disconnected from controller but is not uninstalled. Wiring connection from Solar Sync connection is faulty. Check Solar Sync sensor wiring connection to controller. Uninstall Solar Sync sensor if permanently removing it from the controller.

X Core Quick Check and Reset Features

Clearing the Controller's Memory/Resetting the Controller

To reset the controller to factory defaults and erase all programs:

  1. Press and hold the [←], [↑], [→], and [↓] buttons.
  2. Press and release the reset button on the side of the controller.
  3. Wait 2 seconds and release the [←], [↑], [→], and [↓] buttons.

The display should show 12:00 am. The controller may now be reprogrammed.

Easy Retrieve™ Program Memory

To save the program:

  1. With the dial in the RUN position, press and hold the [←] and [→] buttons for 5 seconds.
  2. The display will scroll three segments indicating the program is saved.
  3. Release the [←] and [→] buttons.

To retrieve a saved program:

  1. With the dial in the RUN position, press and hold the [←] and [→] buttons for 5 seconds.
  2. The display will scroll three segments indicating the program is being retrieved.
  3. Release the [←] and [→] buttons.

Programmable Delay Between Stations

Insert a delay between stations:

  1. Start with the dial in the RUN position.
  2. Press and hold the [←] button while turning the dial to the RUN TIMES position.
  3. Release the [←] button.
  4. The display will show a delay time for all stations in seconds, flashing.
  5. Press the [←] or [→] buttons to adjust the delay time between 0 and 4 hours.
  6. Return the dial to the RUN position.

Hunter Pro C / PCC Troubleshooting Guide

Problem Causes Solutions
There is no display. Check AC power wiring. Correct any errors.
The display reads "ERR". Electrical noise is entering the system. Check the SmartPort wiring harness. If the wires were extended, they will need to be replaced with shielded cable. Contact your local distributor for information on shielded cable.
The display reads "P ERR". There is a fault in the wire to the pump start or master valve. Check the master valve or pump start wire for continuity. Replace or repair the shorted wire. Check that all wire connections are good and water tight.
The display reads a station number and ERR, such as "2 ERR". There has been a fault with the wire leading to that station. Check the station wire for continuity. Replace or repair shorted wire. Check that all wire connections are good and water tight.
The display reads "NO AC". There is no AC power present (the controller is not receiving power). Check to see if the transformer is properly installed.
The display reads "SENSOR OFF". The rain sensor is interrupting irrigation or the sensor jumper is not installed. Slide the Rain Sensor switch on the front panel to the BYPASS position to bypass the rain sensor circuit, or install the sensor jumper.
Rain sensor will not shut off system. Incompatible rain sensor or the jumper was not removed when sensor was installed. Make sure sensor is micro-switch type such as Mini-Clik®. Check that the jumper has been removed from the SEN terminals. Make sure AC power is connected.
The controller recognizes 12 stations all the time. Programming error, dial in incorrect position. Be sure the dial is in the correct position. Total number of stations can be easily checked by placing the dial in SET STATION RUN TIMES position and pressing the back arrow.
The controller does not respond to all stations. Example, the controller has 12 stations but the display will only go to 6 stations. Controller does not recognize modules. Press "RESET". If it still does not recognize all modules, turn off the power to the controller and remove the battery. Check all module connections to the controller. Power the controller back up. The microprocessor will recognize all modules.
The controller does not have a start time for each station. There are not enough start times for all stations. Only one start time per active program is required. Refer to "Setting Watering Start Times". The controller has only four start times per program.
The controller is continuously watering, even when it should not be on/ Cycling repeatedly. Too many start times (user error). User has set multiple start times for a Program. Only one start time is needed to run a complete program.
Controller continues cycling over and over. Programming error. User error.

Hunter Pro C/PCC Quick Check & Reset Features

Easy Retrieve™ Program Memory

To save the program:

  1. With the dial in the RUN position, press and hold the [←] and [→] buttons for 5 seconds.
  2. The display will scroll from left to right indicating the program is saved.
  3. Release the [←] and [→] buttons.

To retrieve a program:

  1. With the dial in the RUN position, press and hold the [←] and [→] buttons for 5 seconds.
  2. The display will scroll from right to left indicating the program is being retrieved.
  3. Release the [←] and [→] buttons.

Hunter Quick Check™

This circuit diagnostic procedure quickly identifies "shorts" caused by faulty solenoids or bare wires touching.

To initiate the Hunter Quick Check test:

  1. Press the [←], [↑], and [→] buttons simultaneously.
  2. In standby mode, the LCD will display all segments.
  3. Press the [↑] button to begin the Quick Check test.

The system searches all stations for high current paths. When a short is detected, an ERR symbol with the station number will flash. The controller returns to automatic watering mode after the test.

Clearing Controller's Memory/Resetting Controller

To reset the controller to factory defaults and erase all programs:

  1. Press and hold the [←] button.
  2. Press and release the RESET button on the back of the front panel.
  3. Wait until the display shows 12:00am.
  4. Release the [←] button.

All memory is cleared, and the controller may now be reprogrammed.

Hunter ICC Troubleshooting Guide

Problem Causes Solutions
There is no display. Check AC power wiring. Correct any errors.
The display reads "P ERR". Electrical noise is entering the system. Check the SmartPort wiring harness. If wires were extended, replace with shielded cable. Contact your local distributor for shielded cable information.
The display reads "P ERR". Fault in the wire to the pump start or master valve. Check master valve or pump start wire for continuity. Replace or repair broken wire. Ensure all wire connections are good and watertight.
The display reads a station number and ERR, such as "2 ERR". Ground fault with the wire leading to that station. Check station wire for continuity. Replace or repair broken wire. Ensure all wire connections are good and watertight.
The display reads "NO AC". No AC power present. Check if the transformer is properly installed.
The display reads "SEN OFF". Rain sensor interrupting irrigation or not installed. Slide the Rain Sensor switch on the front panel to the OFF position to bypass the rain sensor circuit.
The Controller does not start automatically. Potential user programming error. Ensure start time is entered correctly (note AM/PM). Check that the watering day is active.
Rain sensor will not shut off system. Incorrect sensor type wired directly into sensor circuit. Jumper not removed. Ensure sensor is micro-switch type (e.g., Mini-Clik®). Ensure jumper is removed. Ensure AC power is connected.
The controller recognizes 48 stations all the time. Make sure AC power is connected. Reset controller using the described method. N/A
The controller does not respond to all the stations. Example, the controller has 24 stations but the display will only go to 16 stations. Controller does not recognize modules. Press "RESET". If modules are still not recognized, turn off controller power, remove battery. Check all module connections. Power controller back up. Microprocessor will recognize modules.
The controller is only recognizing eight stations when multiple modules are installed. Potential user programming error. Ensure dial is in the correct position. Total stations can be checked by placing dial in SET STATION RUN TIMES and pressing the back arrow.
Controller has display but will not activate zone valves. Primary power to controller incorrectly wired. Controller receiving voltage too low for valve operation. Check and correct 110 or 220 volt connection.
The controller is continuously watering, even when it should not be on. Too many start times. Only one start time per active program is required.
There are not enough start times for all stations. User error. The controller has eight start times per program. Review Programming Fundamentals.
Controller continues cycling over and over. Programming error. User has set multiple start times for a Program. Only one start time is needed to run a complete program.

Hunter ICC Quick Check and Reset Features

Clearing Non-Volatile Memory

  1. Turn the dial to RUN.
  2. Press and hold the [←], [↑], and [→] buttons simultaneously.
  3. While holding the buttons, momentarily press and release the RESET button.
  4. Release the [←], [↑], and [→] buttons.

The LCD display will show 12.00am.

Test Program

This feature tests each station sequentially.

To initiate the test program:

  1. Press and hold the [←] button. The station number will be flashing.
  2. Press the [↑] or [↓] button to scroll to the desired start station.
  3. Use the [↑] or [↓] button to set the run time up to 15 minutes.
  4. After a 2-second pause, the test program will begin.

Hunter Quick Check™

This procedure quickly identifies "shorts" caused by faulty solenoids or touching wires.

To initiate the Hunter Quick Check™ test procedure:

  1. Press the [←], [↑], [→], and [↓] buttons.
  2. In standby mode, the LCD will display all segments.
  3. Press the [↑] button to begin the Quick Check™ test procedure.

The system searches all stations for high current paths. When a short is detected, an ERR symbol with the station number will flash. The controller returns to automatic watering mode after the test.

Hunter I Core Troubleshooting

Problem Causes Solutions
No display Check AC power to controller. 14 pin connector not fully connected. Module locking bar isn't in the Power Off position. Fix power supply. Connect ribbon cable on back of facepack door. Slide the module locking bar into the Power On position.
The display reads NO AC Power No AC power present to operate controller/valves. Check to see if the transformer is properly installed or if power is coming out of it.
Display reads "Fault" Possible station short Overflow/Underflow alarm has occurred. Check System for problems.
Display reads sensor is active The rain sensor is interrupting irrigation or not installed. Field wiring or solenoid problem. Check solenoid and field wiring. Slide the rain sensor switch on the front panel to the bypass. Perform manual Single-Station start and observe display and Station Status light. If Station Status light is RED, check solenoid and field wiring including COM wires. Station outputs must not exceed 0.56A max.
Station does not irrigate Possible programming errors. Sensor Shutdown. Programmable Off in effect. Time/Date errors. Incorrect sensor type or connection (Jumper Installed). Incorrect sensor settings for stations. Verify all programs: Days to water, start times, and Station Run Times. Check display for fault indicator. Check display for OFF days. Verify controller time and date, including AM/PM/24 settings. Use one normally closed Click type sensor per sensor port. Verify one wire from each sensor is to each SEN1 or SEN2 terminal. Remove jumper wire. Turn dial to SET SENSOR OPERATION and verify correct response for each station to the sensor.
The controller does not irrigate automatically Possible programming errors. Sensor Shutdown. Programmable Off in effect. Time/Date errors. Verify all programs: Days to water, start times, and Station Run Times. Check display for fault indicator. Check display for OFF days. Verify controller time and date, including AM/PM/24 settings.
Rain or other Click sensor does not shut down systems Incorrect sensor type or connection (Jumper Installed). Incorrect sensor settings for stations. Use one normally closed Click type sensor per sensor port. Verify one wire from each sensor is to each SEN1 or SEN2 terminal. Remove jumper wire. Turn dial to SET SENSOR OPERATION and verify correct response for each station to the sensor.
The controller repeats a program or continuously waters even when it should not be on/ controller cycles over and over Too many start times (user programming error). Use only one start time per active Program.
Controller does not recognize output module (station size shown in incorrect) Module seated incorrectly. Module slot skipped. Station output module overloaded. Verify that modules are seated all the way back in the wiring compartment and module lock is ON. Verify that no module slots have been skipped from left to right. Swap with known good module in the same position. If the module now works in that position, replace the old module. If a new known good module also fails to be recognized, check gold contacts for dirt, corrosion, or pests.

I Core Quick Check

The Hunter Quick Check is an efficient diagnostic tool.

To initiate Hunter Quick Check:

  1. With the dial in the RUN position, press and hold the [←], [↑], [→], or [↓] buttons for approximately two seconds, then release.
  2. After a few seconds, the display will show a number 1. Press the [↑] button.
  3. The screen will initially show a number 20, and within one second, the Hunter Quick Check will begin.

The controller searches all stations for high current paths. If a field wiring short is detected, a fault message for each faulty station will be displayed.

Blank Dial Position: This dial position is for future use.

Hunter I Core Dual Troubleshooting

Node Advanced Features & Troubleshooting

Hunter ACC Troubleshooting

Problem Causes Solutions
No display Check AC power to controller. Facepack is not firmly seated and locked, and/or 9-pin connector is not fully connected. Grey ribbon cable is not connected from back of inner panel to cabinet. Fix power supply. Seat facepack in connector. Connect ribbon cable to the back of the facepack door.
Display reads "Attention" (may be followed by sensor number) "ATTENTION" indicates an alarm, an active sensor, or trouble in the system. Turn the dial to Data History, select Alarm Log, and find detailed messages about each individual alarm with a date and time. A complete list of alarm messages is included after this table. The controller log and station log may also be useful supporting information when diagnosing problems.
Station does not irrigate Field wiring or solenoid problem. Possible programming errors. Sensor shutdown. Programmable Off in effect. Time/Date errors. Incorrect sensor type or connection. Incorrect sensor settings for Program. Perform manual One Station start and observe display and output light. If light is red, check solenoid and field wiring, including COM (common wires). Station outputs must not exceed 0.56A total. Verify all programs: Days to Water, Start Times, and Station Run Times. Check display for Fault Indication (if yes, press + for status). Check display for Off Days. Verify controller Time and Date, including AM/PM/24 hour settings. Use one normally closed Click type sensor per sensor port (SEN1-4). Verify that one wire from each sensor is to + and one to -. Do not connect multiple sensors to a single port. Turn dial to Set Sensor Operation and verify correct response to each program to the sensor.
Controller does not irrigate automatically Possible programming errors. Sensor shutdown. Programmable Off in effect. Time/Date errors. Verify all programs: Days to Water, Start Times, and Station Run Times. Check display for Fault Indication (if yes, press + for status). Check display for Off Days. Verify controller Time and Date, including AM/PM/24 hour settings.
Rain or other Click sensor does not shut down system Incorrect sensor type or connection. Incorrect sensor settings for Program. Use one normally closed Click type sensor per sensor port (SEN1-4). Verify that one wire from each sensor is to + and one to -. Do not connect multiple sensors to a single port. Turn dial to Set Sensor Operation and verify correct response to each program to the sensor.
Controller does not recognize output module (station size shown incorrect) Module seated incorrectly. Module slot skipped. Station output module overload. Verify that modules are seated all the way up in wiring compartment, and module lock is ON. Verify that no module slots have been skipped left to right. Reseat Module and observe green station light flashing when module is recognized. No station light or red light. Swap with known good module. Check for green light. If new module works, replace old module. If new known good module also fails to light, check gold and silver contacts for dirt, corrosion, or pests.
AC fuse blows Multiple output module failures Incorrect AC wiring. Surge on AC power line. Lightning. Modules not installed correctly. Over current message. Verify that AC connections are correct for AC supply voltage. Check for lighting damage in vicinity. Check and improve earth ground. Ensure that modules are inserted correctly with ground contact in back, and pushed all the way up - red light momentarily when module recognized. Too much current for station output (0.56Amp max). Divide solenoids over more station outputs.

Hunter Solar Sync Troubleshooting

Problem Causes Solutions
Controller shows ERR in display Module wires not properly connected to controller terminal. Connection between module and sensor faulty. Check the connection between module and controller. Check connection between module and sensor (green and black wires).
Solar Sync Module Shows ERR Connection between module and sensor faulty. Check connection between module and sensor (green and black wires).
Seasonal Adjustment seems low Region too high. Water Adjustment setting too low. Location of sensor does not allow for full sun. Make sure controller dial is in the RUN position. Increase the values of the water adjustment scale. If you max the water adjustment scale at 10 and still require more adjustment, move down one region. Solar Sync will immediately update the Seasonal Adjust on the controller. Repeat until desired seasonal adjust is showing on the controller.
Seasonal Adjustment seems high Region too low. Water Adjustment setting too high. Make sure controller dial is in the RUN position. Decrease the value of the water adjustment setting. If you decrease the water adjustment feature to one and still require further adjustment, decrease the region. Solar Sync will immediately update the Seasonal Adjust on the controller. If it is still too high, repeat the adjustment until the desired seasonal adjust has been reached.
Rain or Freeze Shutoff not activating Rain sensor bypass switch on controller set to "Bypass". Jumper clip still on controller wiring terminal. Set controller bypass switch to "Active". Remove clip.
Run times for a particular station are too short/too long Program Run time too short/too long. Solar Sync provides a global seasonal adjustment to the controller. If a particular station has run times too long or too short, make the appropriate adjustment to the program in the controller.

Calibration/ Set Up

After Solar Sync installation and programming, allow the system to run for a few days at the initial setting. Adjustments may be needed based on site conditions.

Calibration Steps:

  1. Install Solar Sync sensor and program the module. Allow the system to operate at initial settings for a minimum of 3 days.
  2. Observe the Seasonal Adjust on the controller.
  3. Seasonal Adjust too low: Ensure the controller dial is in the "Run" position. Increase the Water Adjustment scale value (10 is max). The controller will update immediately. Increase until desired Seasonal Adjust % is shown. If maxed out at 10 and more adjustment is needed, move down to the next lower Region (e.g., Region 4 to 3).
  4. Seasonal Adjust too high: Ensure the controller dial is in the "Run" position. Decrease the Water Adjustment scale value (default is 5). The controller will update immediately. Decrease until desired Seasonal Adjust % is shown. If minimized to 1 and further reduction is needed, move up to the next Region (e.g., Region 2 to 3).

Station Run Times: Solar Sync provides a global seasonal adjustment. Program run times for peak season watering. If a specific station's run time seems too long/short after adjustment, modify the station run time in the controller program.

PDF preview unavailable. Download the PDF instead.

Troubleshooting Guide 04-Oct-12-1 Microsoft Word 2010

Related Documents

Preview Hunter Controllers Troubleshooting and Warranty Guide
Comprehensive guide for troubleshooting and understanding the warranty for Hunter irrigation controllers, including models like XC Hybrid, X Core, Pro C/PCC, ICC, I Core, and ACC.
Preview Hunter Solar Sync: Smart Weather-Based Irrigation Control System
Explore the Hunter Solar Sync and Wireless Solar Sync systems, designed to optimize irrigation efficiency through weather-based adjustments. Learn about features, compatibility with Hunter controllers (X-Core, ACC, Pro-C, PCC, ICC, I-Core), sensor types, and technical specifications.
Preview Hunter Wireless Solar Sync ET Sensor Owner's Manual and Programming Instructions
This manual provides detailed instructions for installing, programming, and troubleshooting the Hunter Wireless Solar Sync ET Sensor system, designed to optimize irrigation based on local weather conditions for compatible Hunter controllers.
Preview Hunter Irrigation Controllers: Features, Specifications, and Comparison
Explore the range of Hunter irrigation controllers, including X-Core, Pro-C, I-Core, DUAL, ACC, ACC-99D, ROAM, ROAM XL, ICD-HP, XC Hybrid, NODE, and WVP/WVC. This document details their features, electrical specifications, approvals, and comparisons to help you choose the right controller for your needs.
Preview Hunter X-Core Residential Irrigation Controller: Owner's Manual and Programming Guide
Comprehensive owner's manual and programming guide for the Hunter X-Core Residential Irrigation Controller. Learn about installation, setup, programming watering schedules, advanced features, and troubleshooting for efficient lawn and garden irrigation.
Preview Hunter Water-Saving Sensor Options for Dynamic Irrigation Management
Explore Hunter's range of water-saving sensors designed to deliver dynamic irrigation management. This guide details sensor compatibility, flow solutions, and smart irrigation control options for maximizing water efficiency.
Preview Hunter X-Core Residential Irrigation Controller Owner's Manual
Comprehensive guide for the Hunter X-Core Residential Irrigation Controller, covering installation, programming, advanced features, and troubleshooting.
Preview Hunter Solar Sync Sensor Owner's Manual
Owner's manual for the Hunter Solar Sync Sensor, a wired and wireless evapotranspiration sensor for compatible Hunter controllers. Learn about system overview, installation, wiring, setup, programming, and specifications.