Skip to content

Instantly share code, notes, and snippets.

@jwulf
Last active December 4, 2025 00:29
Show Gist options
  • Select an option

  • Save jwulf/4cd5af094aac7feae88777be81c81322 to your computer and use it in GitHub Desktop.

Select an option

Save jwulf/4cd5af094aac7feae88777be81c81322 to your computer and use it in GitHub Desktop.
Irrigation automation planning

Solenoid-controlled valves

Single-coil (two-wire). These are single coil, and require reversing polarity to change the latch. This is complex.

Dual coil ("three-wire"). These are easier to deal with electronically. They do not look as well sealed as the single coil valces.

✅ Dual coil IP65

Screenshot 2025-11-30 at 10 15 33 PM image

Power draw: 6W for 5-15 seconds during valve state transition.

Manifold

The manifold takes input from the 20mm alkathene, into a 25mm PVC manifold. This has outlets that go to the solenoids. On the other side of the solenoids are 19mm distribution pipes for each zone.

  • 25 mm PVC pipe (closer to 20 mm MDPE flow capacity)
  • 25mm → 20mm MDPE adaptor at the inlet
  • ¾" BSP threaded tees or bushings
  • Screw valves directly

Assembled, it looks something like this:

image

or like this:

image

It needs a master cut off valve in front of it.

Screenshot 2025-11-30 at 10 34 36 PM Screenshot 2025-11-30 at 10 16 13 PM Screenshot 2025-12-04 at 1 29 03 PM

Flow sensor to enable partial opening and detect stuck open.

Electronics

I2C expansion board is needed to get enough pins to control the solenoids and read the rain sensor:

Sign up for free to join this conversation on GitHub. Already have an account? Sign in to comment