Multimeter Basics: Troubleshooting an irrigation system using a Multimeter

We’ll be going over the basic functions of a voltmeter and how you can use it in locating problems within your irrigation system. We’ll be talking about AC and DC voltage, continuity, as well as ohms of resistance in the wire path.

[@deanberry7543]

Very helpful! Thanks for including the specific number ranges for good/bad solenoids and transmitters, etc!

[@Hunter_Industries]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Son_of_Aragorn]

Is 16 AWG "marine wire" good for sprinklers? Wasn't sure if all 16 AWG wire are created equal. Thank you!

[@sebaxh22]

Great video!!! Thank you for posting!!

[@Hunter_Industries]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@wstt4]

If I want to test two extra loose irrigation wires for continuity so I can add new zones on them, and I connect these loose wires at a solenoid, and then with my multimeter I touch both same colored ends at the base control box, and I get a reading of 1.0 Ω, is that a good enough result?

[@AlejandroAste-Nieto]

So you created a loop with those wires? You tied them together at one end and tested resistance at the other? Then 1 ohm is a good thing. Your wires have good continuity. Smaller wire gauges will have more resistance the further you go. 18 AWG: 6.5 Ohm / 1,000 ft (multiplied by 2 for the wire to and from the end). So if you have 1 ohm on 18 AWG, that suggests you were 35-40 feet from one end to the other (70-80 feet of wire in a loop).