Feedback on using Solenoids to control water flow

[Saldarya]

I know there have been a few of you mention that you use these to control water flow outdoors but I have a quick question.

The standard ones that you can find for sprinkler systems are 24V, can a plug be added to them and then simply plugged into a timer?

The other option of course is a 110v one, but they seem to all be brass and I would rather not run the water through metal.

Of course if all think that is a non issue maybe that is the best solution,

Thanks!

 

[Mike Fisher]

The standard lawn sprinkler solenoids use 24V AC. So you need a 24V AC power supply (usually a wall wart) and plug that in to your standard 110v timer and connect the wires to your soleniod, piece of cake.

The other way to do it: Use a sprinkler timer instead because they are more customizable as far as misting times and schedules go, plus you can hook several solenoids/circuits and schedule them differently.

I use sprinkler timers to control diaphragm pumps which I've never heard of anyone else doing. I run the timer 24V AC outputs to control 24V AC relays, which switch the 110V to the pumps. Like NASA around here.

And btw, brass is fine. Most of your plumbing fixtures like faucets are made of it.

 

[Saldarya]

Thanks Mike,

I looked at just using the Sprinkler timer set up as you suggested but I connt find any that are fully customizable. They allow for how long and how many times a day, but that would mean the timer would go off over night as well. If you could suggest one, that would be great.

Thanks again!

 

[CarlC]

Orbit makes one that is pretty programmable.
https://www.orbitonline.com/product...super-dial/6-station-indoor-timer-hr-products

Carl

 

[Mike Fisher]

They make bunches of them to choose from, just search Home Depot's website. Here's the one I use: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Orbit-Super-6-Controller-with-Remote-57096/202314093

Yes, I can run my mist system by remote control. And it is under $50 and super programmable, with outputs for 6 different circuits. The lowest you can set it for is one minute though, not seconds. Fine by me though.

Good luck.