Hi, I’m looking to replace my Rain Bird ESP Modular controller with a Rachio 3 16 zone sprinkler controller. Can someone let me know what the installation process will be with my current system to the Rachio? On a handyman scale of 1 to 10, I’m a -2. I’ve attached 3 pictures
In the first photo, I see top row VT (nothing connected), MV (nothing connected), and COM (common).
Bottom row (including what was just listed) zones 1-12 followed by AUX.
The third picture shows the first two as 24 VAC, GND, and then two SENS (connected).
To me, this is a straight forward conversion. Connect the Rachio power to an outlet and then to the Rachio. COM wires go to one or more of the C, zones 1-12 to 1-12 on the Rachio, and it appears AUX can be another normal zone or something like lights that are not affected by rain. I would presume you will just hook this up to zone 13 on the Rachio.
So, what would be the process for me:
Take pictures (done)
Disconnect power from the old controller
Possibly label the wires as you disconnect them
Probably remove the old controller
Put up the new controller
Route the wires and connect them to the correct location
Route Rachio’s power cable and connect to the Rachio
With the Rachio power supply that plugs into an outlet, you do not need the 24 VAC or ground. The SENS wire looks like it just connects the two terminals together. This tells me that you do not have a sensor, so nothing needs to be done with that either.
Hi Scott and Thomas. I purchased a Rachio 3 this weekend and will be replacing a Rain Bird ESP-M also. This post is very helpful! One question…the two green COM wires that are on the top row of the first photo…where does those go on the Rachio? Also, just confirming that you didn’t need to connect the wires shown in your 3rd photo. Thanks so much!
Mary