Step-by-Step Guide

What Power Cycling Means

Power cycling a controller means turning it off and then turning it back on. This process allows the controller to reboot and reconfigure itself. During the reboot, the controller will verify its configurations, double-check addresses, and reset other settings. This simple procedure often resolves many common issues with irrigation controllers and is a standard troubleshooting step used across many types of electronics, not just irrigation equipment.

Method 1: Unplugging the Controller

This method works best for residential controllers or installations where the controller is plugged into an easily accessible wall outlet.

1. Unplug the controller from the wall outlet.

2. Wait 60 seconds.

3. Plug the controller back into the outlet.

This method is typically not practical for commercial sites, where controllers are often hardwired to prevent unauthorized disconnection.

Method 2: Using the Circuit Breaker

For commercial installations where the controller is hardwired or mounted in a pedestal, you'll need to use the circuit breaker to power cycle the unit.

1. Locate the circuit breaker panel that controls the irrigation controller. Make sure you know where it is and have access to it.

2. Verify that the circuit breaker is properly labeled so you can identify which breaker controls the controller. If the controller is in a pedestal, look for a circuit breaker or switch located below the controller.

3. Turn off the circuit breaker.

4. Wait 60 seconds.

5. Turn the circuit breaker back on.

Method 3: Disconnecting the Orange Power Plug (Recommended)

This method can be performed directly at the controller and is the recommended approach. The following steps demonstrate the procedure on a BaseStation 3200 controller.

1. Open the controller cabinet. Remove the plexiglass cover by unscrewing the two screws located on the cover using a Phillips screwdriver. You can leave these screws loosened for easier access in the future.

2. Flex the plexiglass cover back and pop it out of the way to access the internal components.

3. Locate the transformer and the orange plug. You'll see the controller board (or boards), the transformer, and a small lead wire coming from the transformer that connects to an orange plug.

4. Unplug the orange lead by pulling it straight out. Bend the disconnected plug off to the side. The two prongs on this plug carry power into the board, so removing it powers down the controller.

5. Wait 60 seconds.

6. Plug the orange lead back into its socket.

7. Replace the plexiglass cover. Even if you're careful when working inside the controller, it's important to put the protective cover back on to protect the next person who may need to access the controller.

8. Verify the power cycle is complete. When you look at the controller display, you should see a flash screen indicating that the controller is going through its power cycle and rebooting.

Video Walkthrough

If you have questions, here are 3 ways to get answers:

1. Search within this HydroPoint knowledgebase

2. Visit the HydroPoint support page

3. Call 800-362-8774 or email support@hydropoint.com, hours are Mon-Fri 3:00 AM – 6:00 PM PT and Sat 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM PT.