How to Program Hunter Src Sprinkler System? Easy Guide

Introduction

Learning how to program Hunter Src sprinkler system controllers is essential for homeowners and landscapers who want efficient, automated irrigation. The Hunter SRC series offers a blend of simplicity and advanced features, making it a popular choice for residential and light commercial landscapes. This guide walks you through every step, from initial setup to fine‑tuning seasonal adjustments, so you can confidently manage your watering schedule and conserve water.

Whether you are installing a new controller or reprogramming an existing unit, understanding the menu structure, program slots, and sensor integration will save you time and prevent costly watering mistakes. The following sections provide a complete, step‑by‑step reference that covers basic programming, multi‑program management, rain sensor usage, and advanced options like cycle‑and‑soak.

• Understanding the Hunter SRC Controller
• Preparing for Programming
• Step‑by‑Step Programming Guide
• Programming Multiple Programs
• Using the Rain Sensor and Weather Adjustments
• Advanced Features: Cycle and Soak, Manual Run, Delay
• Comparison Table: Hunter SRC vs. Other Controllers
• Tips and Best Practices
• Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Understanding the Hunter SRC Controller

The Hunter SRC controller is a compact, weather‑resistant unit designed for up to 12 stations. It features a backlit LCD display, a rotary dial for navigation, and dedicated buttons for program selection (A, B, C), manual start, and seasonal adjust. The controller stores three independent programs, each with its own start times, watering days, and run times, allowing you to tailor irrigation for different plant zones.

Key hardware components include the main terminal block for valve wiring, a rain sensor port, and a battery backup compartment that preserves programming during power outages. The firmware supports a 365‑day calendar, odd/even day watering, and interval scheduling (every 1‑31 days). Familiarity with these elements makes the programming process smoother and helps you diagnose issues quickly.

Before you begin, locate the model number on the side of the unit (e.g., SRC‑1200) and download the latest manual from the Hunter website. The manual provides a button map and a glossary of menu items that will be referenced throughout this guide.

Preparing for Programming

Preparation prevents errors and ensures a clean programming session. Start by turning off the main water supply to the irrigation system; this avoids accidental valve activation while you navigate menus. Next, verify that the controller is powered – either via the transformer or the backup battery – and that the display lights up.

Gather the following information for each zone: desired start time, run duration, watering days, and any special requirements such as cycle‑and‑soak for sloped areas. Write these details on a worksheet or spreadsheet; having a reference sheet reduces the chance of entering conflicting schedules.

If a rain sensor is installed, confirm it is wired to the sensor terminals and set to “Active” in the controller’s sensor menu. A functional rain sensor will automatically suspend watering when sufficient rainfall is detected, which is a core water‑saving feature of the SRC series.

Step‑by‑Step Programming Guide

Follow these ordered steps to program a basic schedule on Program A. The same workflow applies to Programs B and C.

1. Set the current date and time. Press the Menu button, rotate the dial to Date/Time, press Enter, then adjust month, day, year, hour, and minute using the dial. Confirm each field with Enter. Accurate timekeeping is critical for start‑time execution.
2. Select Program A. Press the Program button until the display shows “PROG A”. This isolates your changes to the first program slot.
3. Set watering days. Navigate to Days in the menu. Choose Custom for specific days, Odd, Even, or Interval. Use the dial to toggle each day on or off, then press Enter to save.
4. Enter start times. Go to Start Times. You can add up to four start times per program. For each start time, set the hour and minute, then press Enter. Multiple start times enable split‑cycle watering.
5. Set station run times. Select Run Times. The display will show “STN 1”. Rotate the dial to set the minutes (0‑240) for station 1, press Enter, then advance to the next station. Repeat for all active stations. Stations left at 0 minutes will be skipped.
6. Configure seasonal adjust (optional). In the Seasonal Adjust menu, set a percentage (10 %‑200 %). This globally scales run times for all programs, useful for seasonal climate changes without reprogramming each station.
7. Save and exit. Press Menu to return to the home screen. The controller automatically saves changes when you leave a menu. Run a manual test by pressing Manual and selecting All Stations to verify valve operation.

After completing these steps, observe the first scheduled cycle to confirm that each zone runs for the intended duration and that the rain sensor (if present) interrupts watering as expected.

Programming Multiple Programs

The SRC controller’s three program slots (A, B, C) allow you to create distinct schedules for different plant groups. For example, Program A could handle lawn zones with early‑morning start times, Program B could manage drip‑irrigation beds with mid‑day cycles, and Program C could be reserved for seasonal flower beds that need less frequent watering.

To program additional programs, repeat the step‑by‑step guide above, but first press the Program button until the desired letter appears. Each program maintains its own day schedule, start times, and run times. The controller will execute programs in alphabetical order when start times overlap, but you can avoid conflicts by spacing start times at least 15 minutes apart.

Remember that the seasonal adjust percentage applies globally across all programs. If you need program‑specific scaling, use the Run Time adjustments on individual stations instead of the global seasonal adjust.

Using the Rain Sensor and Weather Adjustments

A rain sensor is a simple yet powerful tool for water conservation. When the sensor detects rainfall above its threshold, it sends a signal to the controller to suspend all automatic watering until the sensor dries out. To enable the sensor, go to Menu → Sensor → Rain Sensor and set it to On. Verify the sensor status on the home screen; a small cloud icon indicates active sensing.

The SRC also supports a “Weather Adjust” feature that works with compatible wireless weather stations (e.g., Hunter Solar Sync). If you have a Solar Sync module, pair it via Menu → Sensor → Solar Sync. The controller will then automatically modify run times based on evapotranspiration data, reducing manual seasonal adjust changes.

For installations without a sensor, you can simulate a rain delay manually. Press Menu → Delay, choose a delay period (1‑14 days), and confirm. This is useful during forecasted rain events when a physical sensor is not present.

Advanced Features: Cycle and Soak, Manual Run, Delay

Cycle‑and‑soak prevents runoff on slopes and compacted soils by splitting a station’s total run time into multiple shorter cycles with soak intervals. To enable it, navigate to Menu → Advanced → Cycle Soak. Set Cycle Time (e.g., 5 minutes) and Soak Time (e.g., 10 minutes). The controller will automatically repeat the cycle until the programmed run time is satisfied.

Manual run allows you to test a single station or all stations without altering the stored schedule. Press Manual, select Station or All, set a temporary run time, and press Enter. This is ideal for spot‑checking valve operation after wiring changes.

The delay function, described earlier, can also be used for temporary schedule suspension during maintenance or fertilizing. Unlike the rain sensor, a manual delay does not automatically resume; you must cancel it from the same menu when ready.

Comparison Table: Hunter SRC vs. Other Controllers

The table highlights that the Hunter SRC offers a robust, dial‑based interface with optional weather integration, making it a strong choice for users who prefer on‑site programming without relying on a mobile app.

Tips and Best Practices

• Label each valve wire at the terminal block with zone numbers; this speeds up troubleshooting and future reprogramming.
• Use a consistent naming convention for programs (e.g., “Lawn‑AM”, “Drip‑PM”, “Flowers‑Seasonal”) to avoid confusion when reviewing schedules.
• Set seasonal adjust once per season rather than tweaking individual run times; this keeps all programs in sync and reduces entry errors.
• Test each zone after wiring using the manual run function before finalizing the schedule; a faulty solenoid can waste water and damage the controller.
• Keep the controller firmware updated by checking the Hunter support site annually; updates may add new features or fix bugs.
• Document your schedule in a spreadsheet or printed sheet stored near the controller for quick reference during maintenance visits.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

One frequent error is forgetting to set the correct date and time, which causes all start times to execute at the wrong hour. Always verify the clock after a power outage or battery replacement. Another common issue is overlapping start times across programs, leading to simultaneous valve activation that can exceed the transformer’s amp rating. Space start times at least 15 minutes apart or use the controller’s built‑in stack‑delay feature.

If a station does not run, check the following: the run time for that station is greater than zero, the station is not disabled in the Station Setup menu, the wiring is secure at both the controller and valve, and the solenoid resistance measures within spec (typically 20‑60 Ω). A blank display often indicates a dead backup battery; replace the 9 V battery and reset the date/time.

Rain sensor false triggers can occur if the sensor is mounted in a location that collects dew or sprinkler overspray. Relocate the sensor to an open area with clear sky exposure. If the sensor remains active after drying, clean the contacts and verify the wiring continuity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many programs can run at the same time?

The Hunter SRC executes programs sequentially. If start times overlap, the controller runs Program A first, then B, then C. To avoid stacking, schedule start times with sufficient gaps.

Can I use a wireless rain sensor with the SRC?

The SRC’s sensor port is wired only. For wireless sensing, you would need a compatible Hunter Solar Sync module, which communicates via a proprietary wireless link to the controller.

What is the maximum run time per station?

Each station can be set from 0 to 240 minutes (4 hours). For longer watering needs, use multiple start times within the same program.

How do I reset the controller to factory defaults?

Hold the Menu and Program buttons simultaneously for five seconds until the display flashes “RESET”. Release the buttons; the controller will reboot with default settings (all run times zero, date/time cleared).

Does the SRC support smart home integration?

Out of the box, the SRC does not have Wi‑Fi or Zigbee. Integration is possible by adding a Hunter Hydrawise or third‑party relay module, but the native controller remains a standalone device.

Conclusion

Mastering how to program Hunter Src sprinkler system controllers gives you precise control over irrigation, reduces water waste, and keeps landscapes healthy throughout the year. By following the step‑by‑step instructions, leveraging multiple programs, and utilizing rain sensors or weather‑based adjust modules, you can create a resilient watering schedule that adapts to seasonal changes with minimal manual intervention. Remember to document your settings, test each zone after changes, and revisit the seasonal adjust percentage at the start of each season. With these practices in place, your Hunter SRC will deliver reliable, efficient performance for many growing seasons.