Step-by-Step Guide

Troubleshooting Why a Broken Main Line Didn't Shut Down

When a broken main line fails to trigger an automatic shutdown, several configuration issues could be the cause. The following sections walk through each potential problem area to check.

Verify Controller Communication Status

1. Log into BaseManager with your username and password.

2. Navigate to the Maps page.

3. Check the controller status indicator in the lower left corner where your controller name appears (e.g., "Controller Clock 71" and "Clock 72").

4. Verify the status color:

• Green means the controller is idle and ready (online with good communication)
• Gray means the controller is offline

If the controller shows as gray (offline), this could be due to a failed communication method such as a cell modem that's down, WiFi connectivity issues, or the controller not being powered up and actively working. The controller must be online to receive shutdown commands from BaseManager.

Check Flow Setup and Control Point Limits

Before checking limits, verify that your devices are assigned and set up correctly. This includes confirming that your flow meter is assigned, your master valve is assigned, and the correct K value is entered for your flow meter.

1. Navigate to Flow Setup in BaseManager.

2. Open the Control Points section.

3. Select the control point you want to review and click Edit.

4. Review the flow settings:

• Verify the Design Flow is set correctly (e.g., 120 GPM)
• Check the High Flow Limit value (e.g., 130 GPM)
• Confirm that the Shutdown checkbox is selected

If the shutdown option is not selected, the system will not shut down when flow exceeds the high flow limit—it will only send an alert. Shutdown should always be enabled for high flow limits because this typically indicates a catastrophic mainline failure. If pressure limits are configured, decide whether you want shutdown enabled or just alerts for those conditions.

Verify Flow Meter K Value Configuration

The K value is critical because it translates pulses from the flow meter into actual gallons per minute (GPM). An incorrect K value will result in inaccurate flow readings.

For example, a certain number of pulses through a one-inch flow sensor might translate to 20 GPM, but the same number of pulses through a two-inch flow sensor would translate to 107 GPM. Make sure the K value entered in BaseManager matches the specifications for your specific flow meter device.

Confirm Master Valve Configuration

Verify whether your master valve is normally open or normally closed, and ensure this setting is configured accurately in BaseManager. An incorrect valve type setting can prevent proper shutdown behavior.

Review User Alert Settings in Administration

1. Click the Menu and select Administration.

2. Click Administration again to open a new tab with the user administration interface.

3. Navigate to User Info to view your user profile settings.

4. Verify your contact information and alert preferences:

• Confirm Text Alert is enabled if you want SMS notifications
• Confirm Email Alerts is enabled if you want email notifications
• Verify your phone number is entered correctly
• Verify your cell provider information is correct
• Verify your email address is correct

5. Check the Disable All Alerts setting. If this option is enabled, you will not receive any alerts regardless of other settings. This must be turned off to allow alerts.

6. Review the time-of-day settings for alerts. If you've restricted alerts to only certain times of day, you may not receive notifications when issues occur outside those hours.

Configure Alert Subscriptions for the Controller

1. From the Administration menu, navigate to Alerts and Report Subscriptions.

2. Open Alert Subscriptions.

3. Review the alert settings for your specific controller. You can choose to enable all alerts or disable all alerts for that controller.

4. Turn on all alerts initially. Every alert will come through when all alerts are enabled.

If you later find you're receiving too many alerts, you can selectively turn off low-priority alerts. However, it's recommended to start with all alerts enabled because what engineers classify as "low level" may actually be high priority for your specific operation.

Summary Checklist for Shutdown Troubleshooting

If your master valve isn't reacting when it should or you aren't receiving alerts, verify the following:

• Communication is solid between the controller and BaseManager
• Flow limits are configured correctly in BaseManager
• The shutdown checkbox is enabled for high flow limits
• Devices (flow meter and master valve) are set up correctly with accurate K values and valve type
• User contact methods are configured correctly in Administration (email, text, phone number, cell provider)
• The "Disable All Alerts" setting is turned off
• Alert time restrictions allow 24-hour notifications
• Alert subscriptions are enabled for the controller

Difference Between a Multimeter and a Milliamp Clamp

Milliamp Clamp Features and Functions

A milliamp clamp is a specialized testing tool that includes a clamp mechanism for measuring current. 

The dial on a milliamp clamp typically includes the following settings:

• Resistance
• Voltage for DC and AC
• AC amps
• Milliamps
• Off

The key distinguishing feature of a milliamp clamp is its ability to measure amperage, which a standard multimeter cannot do.

Multimeter (Volt-Ohm Meter) Features and Functions

A multimeter, also called a volt-ohm meter, includes the following settings:

• Voltage for AC and DC
• Resistance
• Diode check
• Additional sensor capabilities (depending on the model)

The critical limitation of a standard multimeter is that it will not work for amperage checking. This is the biggest difference between the two tools.

Using a Milliamp Clamp on Two-Wire Systems

Milliamp clamps are primarily used on two-wire irrigation systems as a non-invasive way to check for overcurrent conditions.

1. Set the meter dial to AC.

2. Set the meter to AC Amps (indicated by an "A" with a wave symbol).

3. Clamp the tool around one side of the two-wire path in the field.

4. Read the amperage draw that is downstream of that point.

This measurement helps pinpoint overcurrent issues in the system. For detailed overcurrent troubleshooting procedures, refer to the dedicated troubleshooting video.

Using a Multimeter on Conventional Wire Systems

A volt-ohm meter (multimeter) can be used on both conventional and two-wire systems, but it's particularly well-suited for conventional wire systems.

Testing Solenoid Resistance with a Multimeter

1. Set the multimeter dial to Resistance (indicated by the omega symbol).

2. Touch the meter leads to the two leads of the solenoid.

3. Read the resistance value displayed.

A known good solenoid will show a specific resistance reading. For example, Hunter solenoids typically read around 24-25 ohms of resistance without the wire path included. Rain Bird solenoids and Toro solenoids will have different resistance values. This test verifies good continuity through the solenoid.

Testing Fuses with a Multimeter

You can use the resistance setting to check fuses. Even though a fuse may look visually intact, it could be burned out internally.

1. Set the meter to Resistance.

2. Place the meter leads on either end of the fuse.

3. A good fuse will show very low resistance (near zero), while a blown fuse will show infinite resistance or no continuity.

Checking Voltage with a Multimeter

1. Set the meter to Volts DC for DC power sources (like batteries) or Volts AC for AC power sources.

2. Place the positive (red) lead on the positive terminal and the negative (black) lead on the negative terminal.

3. Read the voltage displayed.

For example, a 9-volt battery in good condition might read 8.3 volts, which indicates it still has adequate charge. This function is useful for checking power supplies coming into a controller or verifying battery voltage in your service vehicle.

Using a Milliamp Clamp for Voltage and Resistance

A milliamp clamp can also measure voltage and resistance when equipped with an additional set of test leads (which typically come with the device).

1. Plug the test leads into the milliamp clamp.

2. Set the dial to the appropriate setting (voltage or resistance).

3. Use the leads the same way you would with a standard multimeter.

This means a milliamp clamp can measure resistance, voltage, and amperage—making it a more versatile tool than a standard multimeter.

Choosing the Right Tool for Your System

For conventional wire systems, a standard volt-ohm meter (multimeter) is sufficient and more affordable. These devices can be purchased at relatively low cost and will handle resistance and voltage testing needs.

For two-wire systems, a milliamp clamp is the best tool to have. While more expensive (typically $200-$300), it provides the amperage measurement capability that's essential for troubleshooting two-wire systems, in addition to voltage and resistance testing. The ability to perform non-invasive amperage checks makes it invaluable for diagnosing issues in two-wire installations.

Video Walkthrough

Video originally published December 2020.

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.