Rachio-3 Smart Sprinkler Controller Installation Guide
- June 5, 2024
- rachio
Table of Contents
Rachio-3 Smart Sprinkler Controller
What’s in the box
What you’ll need
NOTE: The Rachio 3 Sprinkler Controller is designed for indoor installation. If an outdoor installation is required, you’ll need our weather- resistant enclosure. Learn more at rachio.com/outdoors.
Need some help?
Check out our Help Center support.rachio.com
Give us a call. 1 (833) 722 4463
Not sure what to do with your old controller? We’ll recycle it for free! Visit rachio.com/recycle.
STEP 1
Out with the old!
Test your old system to ensure everything works properly. Photograph the
wiring inside your existing controller to reference during installation.
Remove your old controller from the wall.
STEP 2
Mark screw locations.
Use the Mounting Template at the end of this guide to mark where you want to
install your Rachio 3.
For Drywall Installation:
Drill holes at marked locations for the anchors. Use a 3/16 inch bit to drill
through the drywall, then use a hammer to gently tap each anchor into place.
STEP 3
In with the new!
Remove the Rachio 3’s magnetic faceplate. Mount your new controller by
screwing it onto the wall using the provided screws.
Mounting Template
Ensure the lower holes are level, and use a pencil to mark the center of each
hole.
Make sure your wires have enough slack to reach the drill icon above!
STEP 4
Connect your wires.
While referencing the photo of your previous wiring, insert the wires into the
appropriate terminals. Things not matching up? Visit
rachio.com/wiring for tips on advanced wiring.
-
Common Wires
Common wires are often labeled “C” or “Com.” You can insert them into any of the white “C” terminals. -
Zone Wires
Zone wires correspond to your landscape’s zones. Insert them into the blue, numbered terminals. -
Master Valve
Not all systems have a master valve. Master valve wires are often labeled “M,” “MV,” or “Pump.” If you have a master valve, wire it into the dark gray “M” terminal. -
Sensor Wires (Optional)
You are able to connect up to two rain or flow sensors to your controller using the “S1,” “S2,” and 24VAC sensor power terminals. For more information, visit rachio.com/sensors.
POWER: Insert the power connector upward into the power jack located at the bottom right of the wiring bay. Then, plug the power adapter into the outlet.
STEP 5
Create an account.
Find the Rachio app on the Apple App Store, on Google Play or by visiting
rachio.com/download. Once the app is installed,
create your account.
STEP 6
Connect to Wi-Fi.
Open the Rachio app and select “Add Controller.” The app will guide you
through this process.
Once your controller is online, the light bar will pulse blue. You can now
replace the magnetic faceplate.
STEP 7
Complete setup on the app.
Now that the controller is online, use the Rachio app to customize your zones
and create a schedule.
Congrats, you did it!
Want to learn more about what you can do with your new Rachio 3?
- Control your system remotely.
- Integrate your smart home.
- Optimize your waterings.
Manual Controls
Zones can be run directly from the controller, if needed. Use the forward and back buttons to select a zone on the light bar, then select play.
References
- Where can I download the app?
- How do I install a Rachio Controller outdoors? Weatherproof Outdoor Enclosure
- Recycling your controller
- How do I install a wired sensor or wired flow meter with Rachio 3?
- How to wire your controller - Basic and Advanced Wiring
- Rachio Support