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Rainbird ESP-M "MV ERR"

TexDude

New Member

Posts: 2

1

Tuesday, August 7th 2007, 2:19pm

Rainbird ESP-M "MV ERR"

Can anyone tell me what this means? I am getting this error when I try to run my system (Rainbird ESP-M). I would like to try and fix it myself if possible as I have gotten killed so far this year with repair bills on the sprinkler system at my home.

I found a couple of sites that talk about a main valve where the system hooks into the water main so I'm thinking that's what "MV" means.

I'm going to try and see if I can figure out where this valve is but, I'm not sure how to test to find out if it's the wiring or the valve. I'm also not sure if this possibly being a main valve, if this is something I should attempt on my own.

Any feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks.

jmduke7

Advanced Member

Posts: 158

Location: FT. Walton Beach, Florida

2

Tuesday, August 7th 2007, 2:30pm

OK, where to begin. First thing first. You may have a controller that has some "issues". There have been some instances throughout the US with this exact problem and there is either no MV hooked to the controller (master valve or pump start relay) and it shows this error, or there is a legitimate problem with your master valve. First, look to see if you have a wire, or wires, hooked to the MV circuit. If so, disconnect it and restart the controller. If the problem goes away, you have a bad solenoid, or pump start relay .If you do not have a wire, or wires, hooked to the MV circuit, you will need to take the WHOLE controller down (not just the faceplate) and swap it for a newer one (no worries it's under warranty) preferably with one that has a date code of around mid July or later.
Josh
Irrigation /Landscape Lighting / Pump and Well Specialist

TexDude

New Member

Posts: 2

3

Tuesday, August 7th 2007, 2:39pm

OK, I unhooked the wire on the MV terminal and reset the controller and ran through all 6 stations using the manual start advance and did not get the error. So it looks like I'll have to replace this relay or solenoid.

Now I just have to find it....

And the parts.

jmduke7

Advanced Member

Posts: 158

Location: FT. Walton Beach, Florida

4

Tuesday, August 7th 2007, 2:46pm

Be careful though. This problem has been known to disappear and then reappear at random. If I remember correctly, the problem lies in the ribbon cable that connects the faceplate to the rear panel. Just keep your eyes on it for the next few days. Only time will tell!
Josh
Irrigation /Landscape Lighting / Pump and Well Specialist
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