Wired Rain Sensor

A:  Yes, the Rain Bird ESP-9V Battery Operated Controller features a sensor input with bypass override, and is therefore compatible with a wired rain sensor.

A:  Many years

A:  It's dependent on the amount of rain and for how long over an extended time period, but the discs will last many years.

A:  Many modern controllers (such as those from Rain Bird) include built-in terminals for rain sensor lead wires. Dedicated rain sensor terminals are usually labeled “sensor”, “SENS”, ”S” or “SN” on the controller’s terminal strip. In the event your controller does not have dedicated rain sensor terminals, you'll wan to disconnect the wire from the common terminal (“C” or “COM”) on the controller’s terminal strip, then connect this wire to the red Rain Sensor lead wire. The black Rain Sensor lead wire should be connected to the common terminal (“C” or “COM”) on the controller’s terminal strip. After installation, you'll want to test the sensor to ensure it is working correctly. Turn the controller on to initiate irrigation, and hold down the plunger located on top of the rain sensor. The zone should turn off after a few seconds. If it does not turn off, check your rain sensor wire connections. If you would like additional help in setting up or operating the RSD Rain Sensor, please feel free to contact our technical support at 1-800-RAIN BIRD (800-724-6247) and we’d be more than happy to assist.

A:  You'll want to install the Rain Bird Wired Rain Sensor in a location where it can collect natural precipitation without interference from man-made or natural obstructions, and at a height that deters vandalism. Common areas for installation include the exterior side of a home or rain gutters, uninhibited fence or exterior of a shed that's free from obstruction. If you would like additional help in setting up or operating the sensor, please feel free to contact our technical support at 1-800-RAIN BIRD (800-724-6247) and we’d be more than happy to assist.

A:  Somewhere where it will not be blocked from rain falling straight down, like not under a soffit or other type of overhang on the house.