Choose solenoid valves to match your controller

Solenoid valves open and close the individual zones of an automatic garden irrigation system. In addition to connection size, flow rate and operating pressure, the electrical control type is an important consideration. The valve solenoid and irrigation controller must be compatible.

Irrigation systems commonly use either 24 V solenoid valves or valves equipped with 9 V latching solenoids. The right option primarily depends on whether your irrigation controller has a permanent mains power supply or operates independently using batteries.

24 V solenoid valves for mains-powered controllers

24 V solenoid valves are the traditional solution for automatic irrigation systems using a mains-powered controller. The controller operates the 24 V solenoids of the individual valves through control cables, allowing several irrigation zones to be programmed and operated separately.

This setup is particularly suitable for permanently installed garden irrigation with pop-up rotors, pop-up sprays, drip irrigation and micro irrigation. Depending on the controller, additional functions such as rain sensors, soil moisture sensors or Wi-Fi control can also be integrated.

9 V solenoid valves for battery operation

9 V solenoid valves, or valves fitted with compatible 9 V latching solenoids, are useful where mains power is not available. They work with suitable battery-powered irrigation controllers and are particularly practical for valve boxes and remote areas of the garden.

These systems generally use bistable latching solenoids. A short electrical pulse changes the valve state, which keeps energy consumption low and makes automatic irrigation possible without a permanent mains power connection.

Combine 24 V and 9 V components correctly

24 V and 9 V solenoids are not automatically interchangeable. A conventional 24 V valve cannot simply be connected to every battery-powered controller. Some valve ranges allow the original solenoid to be replaced with a compatible 9 V latching version when this is specifically supported by the manufacturer.

Always check the compatibility of the controller, valve and solenoid before purchasing. The valves can then be installed in a valve box and connected to your PE pipework using suitable valve fittings, allowing you to build an automatic irrigation system that matches the available power supply.