I have a watermaster (now orbit) timer.
I replaced a bad solenoid with "the only orbit solenoid that fits the hole" at home depot, the Orbit 57861 13V
Now my fuses in the timer immediately blow when I try to use this brand new solenoid, why?
Why is the orbit/watermaster fuse blowing with brand new solenoid
circuit breakersprinkler-systemtimer
Related Solutions
Since it's a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) breaker, it's very likely that you have a ground fault.
GFCIs work by detecting an imbalance in current between the ungrounded (hot), and grounded (neutral) conductors. This is why you only see the trip when the circuit is under load. If there is 0 current flow, the current is balanced.
I'd start by inspecting the receptacle. Turn off the breaker, then open up the box where the receptacle is installed. Look for damage to the receptacle itself, or water/moisture in the box.
For outdoor installations you should always have a weatherproof box, and a cover that is weatherproof even when the receptacle is in use.
You would not use the existing good sprinkler wires to bring the 120VAC out to the valve box. The wires are not rated and approved for that type of use. Place the converter transformer indoors to step the 120VAC down to the 24VAC. The "good" wires could then be used to route the 24VAC outdoors.
I would not use the sprinkler timer in the valve box. It would be very inconvenient to use it in that manner and the underground environment is highly likely to not be friendly to the control unit circuitry. Instead you should install an outdoor timer unit on an exterior wall above the valve box. (Use "outdoor sprinkler timer" in Google to see a selection of possible timers). The better outdoor timers have a lid that closes over the controls to protect the interior from the elements. You could then use a PVC conduit to route the necessary wires from the timer down into the valve box to keep things neat.
Do select the timer as one that works off the low voltage.
Best Answer
Turns out that new solenoid was a "13V DC solenoid for battery operated timer" and my timer is a watermaster "24v AC" wired timer.
Which apparently causes fuses to blow. Using the right solenoid it works now. I had better luck finding them at Lowes, YMMV, they do exist anyway (small head 24V solenoids).