How to Use the ZEN17 Universal Relay as a Sprinkler Controller

Schedule and manage your sprinkler system from your Z-Wave hub using the ZEN17 Universal Relay. You can use it to automate up to 2 separate zones. If you have 3 zones, we recommend the ZEN16 MultiRelay instead. The below instructions describe a Z-Wave-only control system using the ZEN17. Do NOT connect your existing timer to the Sw inputs on the Universal Relay.

Here is how you can use the ZEN17 as a multi-zone sprinkler controller:

1. WIRE THE ZEN17 UNIVERSAL RELAY

If you already have a sprinkler timer panel, you'll need to disconnect the valve wires from its terminals and connect them to the Universal Relay according to the diagram below. We included a standard sprinkler panel in the drawing to show how you can still use it as a power source for the Universal Relay and the valves. If you don't already have a timer panel, you can simply ignore that part of the drawing and connect the Universal Relay using a standard 12-24 V power supply or a USB C power supply up to 1 A.

WIRING TIPS: Always take "before" pictures just in case you need to restore the original set-up or send us images for consultation. Use the correct screwdriver size for the terminal screws on your Universal Relay and wall switches (if connecting them). Use appropriate electrical tools when cutting, prepping, and stripping electrical wires. If you don’t have the necessary tools to perform the installation or are not sure which tools to use or how, please consult a licensed electrician to complete the installation for you. Follow the National Electrical Code and your local safety regulations when performing the installation, including (but not limited to) choosing the correct gauge of jumper wires. The recommended gauge for 15 Amp circuits is 14 AWG and 12 AWG for 20 Amp circuits.
POWER OFF: Turn the circuit power off in the breaker panel before you start. Keep the Universal Relay unplugged from its power source.
DISCONNECT THE VALVES: If working with an existing sprinkler system, disconnect the wires going to the valves from the control and common terminals.
CONNECT THE UNIVERSAL RELAY:
- Connect one of the wires coming from the automatic valve (previously connected to the control terminals on the panel) to the NO terminal of the Universal Relay (R1 and/or R2 if you have 2 zones).
- Keep the other wires from the valves connected together and bundle them with one of the 24 V power source terminals.
- Connect the other power source terminal with the R1-C / R2-C.
- We show the Universal Relay controlling 2 zones separately but you can use it to control the master valve instead and keep all sprinklers in sync.

This set-up allows for Z-Wave control only. If you'd like to add any form of manual switch control to the installation, please contact us with the details of your scenario and we'll create custom instructions for you!

RESTORE POWER: Connect the Universal Relay back to its power source. Click here for the recommended power supply to power the MultiRelay if you're not going to be using the 24 V power from an existing sprinkler timer. Please do NOT use laptop chargers or Apple accessories with the MultiRelay. NEVER connect DC power and USB power to the MultiRelay at the same time.

2. PROGRAM THE UNIVERSAL RELAY ON YOUR HUB

Simply add the ZEN17 Universal Relay to your Z-Wave system and you should see 3 entities created: 1 master for control and monitoring of both outputs and 2 child devices for individual control of each relay. You may need special pairing instructions for some hubs. Selected alarm systems may not allow you to manage the relays individually due to the lack of support for multi-channel devices.

Once the Universal Relay is added to your hub, simply turn the relays on or off to open and close your sprinkler valves. Set schedules and more advanced rules based on weather forecast and humidity readings from your smart sensors. Or if you really want to have fun, trigger the sprinklers based on motion detection to intimidate intruders.

If you have any questions about how to use your Universal Relay with multi-zone sprinklers, reach out to us and we'll guide you through the process.