Programming your Hunter sprinkler system may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and guidance, it can be a breeze. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to program your Hunter sprinkler system, so you can have a lush and healthy lawn without the hassle.
First things first, make sure you have the necessary equipment to program your Hunter sprinkler system. You will need a Hunter irrigation controller, a computer or mobile device with internet access, and a reliable internet connection. Once you have these tools, you are ready to start programming your sprinkler system.
To begin programming, you will need to create a watering schedule that suits your lawn’s needs. This includes setting the start time, duration, and frequency of your sprinkler system. With a Hunter irrigation controller, you can easily customize your watering schedule to ensure your lawn stays healthy and hydrated. So, let’s dive in and get started on programming your Hunter sprinkler system.
Understanding Your Hunter Sprinkler System

If you’re new to programming your Hunter sprinkler system, it’s important to understand the basics of how it works. This section will help you understand the key components of your system and how they work together.
Locating the Controller
The controller is the brain of your sprinkler system, and it’s usually located in your garage or basement. It’s important to know where your controller is so you can easily access it when you need to make changes to your system.
Identifying Sprinkler Zones
Your sprinkler system is divided into zones, which are groups of sprinkler heads that can be controlled separately. Each zone is typically labeled with a number or a letter, so it’s easy to identify which zone you’re working with.
To identify your sprinkler zones, you’ll need to find your sprinkler heads and look for markings on them. You can also refer to your system’s manual or contact a professional for help.
Understanding the Wiring
Your sprinkler system is connected to your home’s electrical system, so it’s important to understand the wiring. The wiring connects the controller to the sprinkler valves, which control the water flow to each zone.
To understand the wiring, you’ll need to locate the wires that connect the controller to the sprinkler valves. These wires are typically color-coded, so it’s easy to identify which wire connects to which valve.
Conclusion
Understanding the basics of your Hunter sprinkler system is essential for programming it correctly. By locating the controller, identifying sprinkler zones, and understanding the wiring, you’ll be able to make changes to your system with confidence.
Programming Your Hunter Sprinkler System

When it comes to programming your Hunter sprinkler system, it may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple. By following these steps, you’ll have your sprinkler system up and running in no time.
Setting the Date and Time
The first thing you’ll need to do is set the date and time on your sprinkler system. This ensures that your system runs at the correct time and on the correct days. To set the date and time, follow these steps:
- Press the “Date/Time” button on your controller.
- Use the “+” and “-” buttons to set the correct date and time.
- Press the “Enter” button to save your changes.
Setting Watering Days
Next, you’ll need to set the watering days for your sprinkler system. This determines which days of the week your system will run. To set the watering days, follow these steps:
- Press the “Watering Days” button on your controller.
- Use the “+” and “-” buttons to select the days of the week you want your system to run.
- Press the “Enter” button to save your changes.
Setting Start Times
After setting the watering days, you’ll need to set the start times for your sprinkler system. This determines what time of day your system will start running. To set the start times, follow these steps:
- Press the “Start Times” button on your controller.
- Use the “+” and “-” buttons to select the start times you want for your system.
- Press the “Enter” button to save your changes.
Setting Run Times
Once you’ve set the start times, you’ll need to set the run times for your sprinkler system. This determines how long your system will run for each zone. To set the run times, follow these steps:
- Press the “Run Times” button on your controller.
- Use the “+” and “-” buttons to select the run times for each zone.
- Press the “Enter” button to save your changes.
Setting Zone-Specific Settings
Finally, you can set zone-specific settings for your sprinkler system. This allows you to customize the settings for each zone, such as adjusting the water output or setting specific watering times. To set the zone-specific settings, follow these steps:
- Press the “Zone” button on your controller.
- Use the “+” and “-” buttons to select the zone you want to customize.
- Press the “Enter” button to access the zone-specific settings.
- Use the “+” and “-” buttons to adjust the settings as desired.
- Press the “Enter” button to save your changes.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to program your Hunter sprinkler system with ease. Remember to refer to your owner’s manual for any specific instructions or troubleshooting tips.
Fine-Tuning Your Hunter Sprinkler System

If you want to keep your lawn looking healthy and green, you need to make sure your Hunter sprinkler system is working properly. Fine-tuning your system will ensure that every inch of your lawn is getting the right amount of water. Here are some tips for fine-tuning your Hunter sprinkler system.
Adjusting Sprinkler Heads
Adjusting your sprinkler heads is an important part of fine-tuning your Hunter sprinkler system. You want to make sure that each head is spraying water where it needs to go. Here are the steps to adjust your sprinkler heads:
- Turn on your sprinkler system and observe where the water is spraying.
- Use a screwdriver to adjust the spray pattern. You can adjust the spray distance and angle as well.
- Make sure that the spray pattern is hitting the right areas of your lawn.
Checking for Leaks
Leaks can cause your sprinkler system to malfunction and waste water. It’s important to check for leaks on a regular basis. Here’s how:
- Turn off your sprinkler system.
- Inspect each sprinkler head for leaks.
- Check the pipes and fittings for leaks as well.
- If you find a leak, replace the faulty component.
Replacing Faulty Components

If you find a faulty component during your inspection, it’s important to replace it as soon as possible. Here are some common faulty components:
- Broken sprinkler heads
- Clogged nozzles
- Damaged pipes or fittings
Replacing these components will ensure that your Hunter sprinkler system is working properly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes your sprinkler system may not work properly even after fine-tuning it. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
- Uneven watering: Adjust your sprinkler heads to ensure that the water is hitting all areas of your lawn.
- Low water pressure: Check your water supply and make sure that your sprinkler system is not clogged.
- System won’t turn on: Check your power supply and make sure that your sprinkler system is properly connected.
By following these tips, you can fine-tune your Hunter sprinkler system and keep your lawn looking healthy and green.
FAQ
If you’re just starting to program your Hunter sprinkler system, you may have a few questions. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you out:
How do I set the current time and date on my Hunter sprinkler system?
To set the current time and date on your Hunter sprinkler system, follow these steps:
- Press the “Date/Time” button on the controller.
- Use the “+” and “-” buttons to adjust the hour, minute, day, month, and year.
- Press the “Enter” button to save the changes.
How do I set up a watering schedule?
To set up a watering schedule on your Hunter sprinkler system, follow these steps:
- Press the “Program” button on the controller.
- Use the “+” and “-” buttons to select the program you want to set up.
- Use the “+” and “-” buttons to set the start time, run time, and days of the week for each zone.
- Press the “Enter” button to save the changes.
How do I adjust the watering duration for each zone?
To adjust the watering duration for each zone on your Hunter sprinkler system, follow these steps:
- Press the “Run Times” button on the controller.
- Use the “+” and “-” buttons to select the zone you want to adjust.
- Use the “+” and “-” buttons to set the watering duration for that zone.
- Press the “Enter” button to save the changes.
How do I run a manual watering cycle?
To run a manual watering cycle on your Hunter sprinkler system, follow these steps:
- Press the “Manual” button on the controller.
- Use the “+” and “-” buttons to select the zone you want to water.
- Press the “Enter” button to start the watering cycle.
- Press the “Enter” button again to stop the watering cycle.
How do I troubleshoot my Hunter sprinkler system?
If you’re having trouble with your Hunter sprinkler system, here are some common issues and solutions:
- Problem: Sprinkler heads not popping up.
- Solution: Check for clogged nozzles or damaged sprinkler heads.
- Problem: Uneven watering.
- Solution: Adjust the water pressure or replace faulty sprinkler heads.
- Problem: Controller not responding.
- Solution: Check the power source and replace the batteries if necessary.
That’s it for the FAQ section. If you have any other questions, refer to the user manual or contact Hunter customer service for assistance.
Sprinkler Expert