Testing Hunter System Roof Edge Sensor
 

We are new to T.V. having bought a home built in 2012.
Looking to determine how to test the Hunter Sprinkler System roof edge sensor.
Was told to check it during a rain downpour, which I just did and found the system
still went on. Thinking now that the sensor may be defective, as it didn't seem to be working, as the sprinkler system still went on during the rain.
Is there a sure way to test the sensor, or just replace it??
If replacing, were is it available? Doesn't look to be too hard to replace, as just 2 wires
going to it.
Thanks in advance for any replies.

I just purchased a new one in 2020 at Ace Hardware on 466, down from Publix. I think it cost me $5.

Go to YouTube several videos on this subject. Replacement sensor was around $75 or more, be sure you get the right unit I accidentally got a mini-click, will not work for a solar sense unit. Also, there is information on rebuilding the existing unit with new cork(?) washers which are around $5 last time is checked.

The outside sensor has about 6 or 7 little cork disks , when they get wet and swell the copper washer triggers the system to shut off. These disks should be replaced every few years.

If you have a Hunter you will see a little umbrella on your controller. Perhaps you didn't get enough rain to trigger a shut off.

There are YouTube videos and I purchased new disks on ebay for $5 free shipping.

I have searched everywhere I can think of to buy the cork discs. The only place I have found them is on Ebay, which I do not like. Does anyone know a place where you can buy just the discs? Some places that don't sell them are ACE Hardware, Lowes, Home Depot, Central Pump Supply, Sprinklerwarehouse.com, and Amazon.

My sensor failed and I had it replaced. The only problem is that it can not correctly turn off the system when it has rained.
Thus I turn it off until the lawn needs water then I turn it on. Manually is the best way to go.

First, makes sure the rain sensor button is not in the "bypass" position in the controller panel. Then, adjust the outside sensor to the full open position by turning the adjustment knob. Then, soak the sensor with water, so the cork discs are completely wet. Check the controller panel screen to see if it says "off" and "sensor". If it doesn't, I think you have a defective sensor.

Most people who replace the rain sensor use a wireless type instead of connecting the wires. If you use a wired sensor, you will probably need to cut the existing wires and splice them to the new sensor wires.

I got mine on ebay from Southeast Irrigation after watching his video on YouTube instructions on replacing disks. Paid using PayPal and he sent them immediately. Will use them again.

Thanks. I have seen the video. But, I am old fashioned. I will not use either Ebay or PayPal for anything.

Last year, I got the corks at Ace Hardware on 466 down from Publix. I believe they were around $5.

The Hunter controller is less than intuitive to use and sensors dry out too quickly in FL sun to be effective.

A smart WIFI controller like the B-Hyve has many advantages.

Orbit b•hyve

Don't waste your time trying to make these sensors work better as they never will. Very poor design and they are no matter what you do very unreliable.

We couldn’t understand why our grass was drying out. We had our sprinkler set to go on twice a week. Since it was set very early morning, we weren’t up to see if they did. We could tell nothing was wet, we also didn’t hear them (sometimes we could). We couldn’t figure out what was going on. Upon further inspection, we realized our rain sensor was staying on “sensor wet”. We tried bypass sensor still didn’t work. We disconnected the sensor altogether and we will see if they come on when they are scheduled to. I think I’m going to buy the wireless you can control on your phone.

IF youre'truly old fashioned barter/trade something otherwise be happy choose tyou chose toput yourself in the disadvantagedclass..........

Retired Guy....also check Sparrs, Rural King, Tractor Supply