Irritrol (Richdel) 205 Series Solenoid Valves

A solenoid valve is the automatic tap that controls that flow of water to an irrigation zone. Solenoid Valves are automatically operated by an irrigation controller which is programmed to tell the solenoid valve when to open & close.

The number of solenoid valves you use depends on the size of your garden & the flow output of your water supply. The number of litres per minute that are available will determine the number of sprinklers or drippers you can operate at any one time. Once your garden is divided up into each section using that information, you’ll need one solenoid valve to operate each one individually.

A master valve is installed upstream of the solenoid valves being used to control each irrigation zone. They’re not mandatory, but they are a good idea as installing one increases the life-span of each valve by protect the valves downstream from the constant pressure that would otherwise be applied. The way it works is, every time a zone is programmed to come on the master valve also switches on, providing the flow, but when all the zones are off, the master valve closes, holding back the flow & pressure of the water supply. Simply, it’s kind of like an irrigation insurance policy.

Being exposed to the weather, water damage will occur any where water can get in. Electrical tape isn’t quite water tight & over time water will creep into the circuit & create havoc & void all warranties. For this reason you should always use waterproof cable joins like heat shrinks.

Nearly all of the time, a solenoid valve staying open is caused by debris caught in the diaphragm. Even the finest debris can cause the valve not to seal shut, causing a constant leak. Other cause can be: Not enough flow because the irrigation zone is too small or, not enough pressure, the valve needs the pressure to seal shut.

Unless your tank located is upwards of 20m above your valves, gravity feed will not provide enough pressure for your valves to reliably open & close. It is not recommended.

Yes! Most solenoid valves feature a manual bleed screw or lever, allowing you to open or close the valve by hand. This is useful when testing, system maintenance & in case of controller or power failure.

All solenoid valves are backed by manufacturer warranties and our knowledgeable support team, who can assist with selection, installation, troubleshooting, and ongoing maintenance advice.

Valves that are compatible with battery powered controllers are typically latching solenoid valves (often 9-12V DC latching) or valves specifically designed for use with battery or DC-powered irrigation controllers. Unlike standard 24V AC solenoid valves, latching solenoid valves use a quick electrical pulse to open or close and do not require continuous power, making them ideal for battery operation.

Yes. Many homeowners successfully install their own irrigation valves. With the right tools, it’s a manageable project. SunshowerOnline provides detailed product information, helpful guides and expert advice to support your DIY installation.

However, if you prefer professional assistance, we can connect you with qualified installers.

Irrigation valves are mostly a set & forget proposition, but if you’re noticing a drop in performance, you may need to open up your valves  debris and signs of wear and tear. For preventative maintenance, you can flush your system periodically using the manual bleed on your valve to remove any buildup that could clog valves or sprinklers.

The lifespan of an irrigation valve can vary depending on several factors, including the valve quality, water quality and system maintenance. Generally, a well-maintained valve made from durable materials can last 10–15 years or more. And while uncommon, factors like hard water with mineral buildup or frequent pressure fluctuations can shorten their lifespan.

The standard irrigation valves has a 25mm BSP thread with a 24v AC Solenoid Coil, those specs are compatible with standard irrigation controllers & pipe connections & are suitable for most irrigation applications. For battery applications you’ll need to work with 12v DC Latching solenoid coils & when flow requirements increase, you’ll need to consider larger thread sizes.

Typical symptoms include zones not turning on or off, water leaking when the system is off, low or no water flow. These issues often indicate electrical faults, blockages, or worn components.

If an irrigation valve isn’t opening, it’s likely because of an electrical fault. Insufficient, or no power is reaching the valve to open it, or the solenoid coil itself has failed. This could be due to a faulty controller, a cut wire, failing cable joins, undersized cable or a failing solenoid coil. You can test test by process of elimination, or book a contractor come and assist

If you have determined that a solenoid coil has failed, you can replace just the solenoid coil, rather than the entire valve. SunshowerOnline stocks replacement coils and parts for most major brands.

Irrigation Valve Installation typically requires installation in a manifolded configuration. This can be done with PVC fittings (most economical), or specialist Manifold Fittings (easiest install and maintenance). Our range includes all necessary connectors, adaptors, and joiners for quick and secure setup.

Most 24V AC solenoid valves are compatible with standard irrigation controllers. For battery-operated or DC systems, ensure your controller and valve are matched for voltage and type.

All solenoid valves and fittings come with manufacturer warranties and the backing of our expert support team. We’re here to help with product selection, troubleshooting, installation advice, and ongoing system care.

Fully installed by a professional, a domestic irrigation system will come out to about $1000 per zone. And as a DIY project, it can look more like $300 per zone! But of course that’s a very rough estimate, each system is different and there are a lot of factors to consider. Thankfully, we have the only tool around that INSTANTLY give an accurate estimate for your. Try our INSTANT Irrigation Quote Tool here!

To choose the right irrigation system, consider the size and layout of your garden or lawn, the types of plants you’re watering and your water source. Spray systems are ideal for most applications like lawns and gardens, while drip irrigation works well for mulched garden beds and areas exposed to wind and evaporation. For expert advice tailored to your needs, request a quote from us.

To set up an irrigation system, start by planning the layout, then install the mainline pipes, valves and fittings. Attach the sprinklers, drip emitters or other irrigation devices, and connect the system to a controller. Finally, test and adjust the system to check for proper coverage and efficiency. For a more precise and tailored setup, visit our Design Department. Our experts can design and quote a customised irrigation system that perfectly fits your landscape.

At SunshowerOnline, we offer a wide range of irrigation systems perfect for home gardens, including spray irrigation, drip irrigation, pop-up sprinklers, micro irrigation. Just getting started? Our DIY kits make installation simple for beginners, while our expert team is available to help you design the ideal setup for your garden’s unique needs.

Our experienced Design Department can create a custom irrigation plan tailored to your property, whether you’re a homeowner, landscaper, or commercial manager. Simply provide your site details and requirements, and we’ll recommend the best products and layout for efficient, reliable watering. Need an instant quote? Try our INSTANT Quote tool!

Absolutely. We stock a comprehensive range of contractor-grade irrigation supplies, including control systems, valves, fittings, and commercial sprinklers, trusted by professionals across Australia. Bulk order discounts and trade support are available for our trade and commercial customers.

Yes, we offer step-by-step installation guides, video tutorials, and our service doesn’t stop once we a purchase is made. Expert advice over phone, chat or in-store is here to help! Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional installer, our resources make setting up your irrigation system straightforward and stress-free.

Yes, many of our irrigation products are designed for easy upgrades and retrofits. Whether you’re replacing old sprinklers, adding drip lines, or automating your watering schedule, our team can recommend compatible products and provide installation support.

To maximise the lifespan of your irrigation system, choose high-quality components, follow correct installation procedures, and perform regular maintenance such as flushing lines and checking for leaks. Our products are built to withstand Australian conditions, and our team is always here to offer ongoing support.

Yes, SunshowerOnline delivers irrigation supplies across Australia with fast, reliable shipping. Our customer service team is available to answer your questions, offer technical support, and ensure you find the right products for your project—no matter where you are located.