Hunter Pro HC Manual: Comprehensive Guide
This manual details the installation, programming, and maintenance of Hunter Pro HC irrigation controllers, alongside Hydrawise app integration․
Hunter Pro HC controllers represent a significant advancement in landscape irrigation management, offering robust features and user-friendly operation․ These controllers, including the HC, PRO-HC, HP, and PHC series, are designed for both residential and light commercial applications․ They provide precise control over watering schedules, maximizing water conservation and promoting healthy plant growth․
Built with integrated WiFi capabilities, Pro HC controllers seamlessly connect to the Hunter Hydrawise platform, enabling remote control and monitoring via smartphones, tablets, or computers․ This connectivity allows for real-time adjustments based on weather conditions and plant needs, optimizing irrigation efficiency․ The controllers are compatible with a variety of sensors, including Hunter and standard rain sensors, further enhancing their adaptability and performance․
Understanding the Pro-HC Series
The Hunter Pro-HC series encompasses a range of controllers designed to meet diverse irrigation needs․ Models like the HC and PRO-HC offer varying zone capacities, accommodating systems from small residential landscapes to larger commercial properties․ Key distinctions lie in the number of zones supported and specific feature sets, such as advanced reporting and flow monitoring capabilities․
All Pro-HC controllers share a common foundation of reliable performance and intuitive programming․ They are built to withstand outdoor environments and feature a user-friendly interface for easy schedule adjustments․ Compatibility with Hunter’s Hydrawise platform is a core element, providing remote access and intelligent irrigation control․ Understanding these core features allows users to select the Pro-HC model best suited for their specific irrigation requirements․
Key Features and Benefits
Hunter Pro-HC controllers boast several key features, including built-in WiFi for remote control via the Hydrawise app․ This enables users to monitor and adjust schedules from anywhere, saving water and ensuring optimal plant health․ Cycle and Soak functionality prevents runoff on challenging terrains, while seasonal adjustments automatically adapt watering based on weather patterns․
Benefits extend to simplified installation and wiring, compatibility with Hunter and standard sensors, and robust diagnostic capabilities․ The controllers support flow sensor integration for leak detection and efficient water management․ Users experience reduced water waste, lower utility bills, and a healthier landscape․ The Pro-HC series delivers a smart, reliable, and user-friendly irrigation solution․
Controller Specifications
Hunter Pro-HC controllers are available in various zone configurations, typically ranging from 4 to 8 zones, catering to diverse irrigation needs․ They operate on standard 24VAC power, ensuring compatibility with most residential electrical systems․ The controllers feature a user-friendly LCD interface for on-site programming and adjustments․
Connectivity is provided through integrated WiFi (802․11 b/g/n), enabling seamless integration with the Hydrawise platform․ Operating temperatures range from 32°F to 140°F (0°C to 60°C), suitable for various climates․ The units are designed for indoor use and are protected against splashing water․ Detailed electrical specifications and wiring diagrams are available in the full installation guide․
Installation and Wiring
Proper installation involves secure mounting, correct zone valve wiring, sensor connections (Hunter or standard), and reliable power supply setup for optimal function․
Mounting the Controller
Securely mounting the Hunter Pro HC controller is crucial for longevity and reliable operation․ Choose a location protected from direct sunlight, rain, and extreme temperatures, ideally indoors or within a weatherproof enclosure․ Ensure the mounting surface is sturdy and can support the controller’s weight․
Utilize appropriate screws and anchors suitable for the wall material․ Maintain adequate clearance around the controller for easy access to wiring and programming․ Avoid mounting near sources of electrical interference․ Before commencing, verify local electrical codes and regulations regarding controller installation․ Proper mounting prevents damage and ensures consistent performance of your irrigation system, contributing to efficient water management and a healthy landscape․
Wiring Zone Valves
Connecting zone valves to the Hunter Pro HC requires careful attention to wiring diagrams․ Typically, each valve receives a common wire and a valve wire from the controller․ Ensure the controller is powered off during wiring․ Use appropriately sized wire for the distance and voltage, following local electrical codes․
Properly strip the wire ends and secure them to the terminals, avoiding loose connections․ Double-check polarity and wiring configurations before restoring power․ Incorrect wiring can damage the controller or valves․ Consider using wire connectors for a secure and weatherproof connection․ Accurate wiring ensures each zone operates independently and efficiently, maximizing water conservation and landscape health․
Connecting Sensors (Hunter & Standard)
Hunter Pro HC controllers readily integrate with both Hunter and standard rain sensors, enhancing irrigation efficiency․ For Hunter sensors, utilize the dedicated sensor terminals, typically labeled “SEN” or “S1/S2”․ Standard sensors often require a common wire connection alongside the sensor wire․
Refer to the sensor’s wiring diagram for specific instructions․ Ensure proper polarity when connecting․ The controller’s programming allows you to enable or disable sensor overrides․ Correct sensor integration prevents watering during rainfall, conserving water and promoting healthy plant growth․ Verify sensor functionality after installation to confirm accurate operation and responsiveness to weather conditions․
Powering Up the Controller
Hunter Pro HC controllers require a stable power supply for optimal performance․ Before powering up, double-check all wiring connections to prevent shorts or damage․ The controller typically operates on standard 24VAC power․ Ensure the transformer provides sufficient voltage and amperage as specified in the controller’s specifications․
Once wiring is verified, connect the power supply to the designated terminals․ Upon initial power-up, the controller will initiate a self-test sequence․ Observe the display for any error messages․ If errors occur, consult the troubleshooting section of this manual․ A successful power-up indicates the controller is ready for programming and operation․
Programming the Pro-HC
Programming the Hunter Pro HC involves accessing the mode, setting the date/time, creating watering schedules, and utilizing advanced features like cycle and soak․
Accessing the Programming Mode
To enter the programming mode on your Hunter Pro HC controller, begin by pressing the “Program” button located on the front panel․ This initiates the setup sequence, allowing you to customize watering schedules and system settings․ The display will then prompt you to enter the security code, which is typically “0000” by default, though it can be changed for enhanced security․
Once the correct code is entered, you’ll gain access to the main programming menu․ From here, you can navigate through various options, including setting the date and time, configuring individual zones, and adjusting advanced features like cycle and soak․ The controller’s interface utilizes a straightforward menu system, making it relatively easy to navigate even for users unfamiliar with irrigation controllers․ Remember to save any changes made to ensure they are implemented․
Setting the Date and Time
Accurate date and time settings are crucial for proper scheduling with your Hunter Pro HC controller․ Within the programming mode, navigate to the “Date” and “Time” options using the arrow buttons․ The display will show the current settings, which you can modify by pressing the “Select” or “Enter” button․ Use the up and down arrows to adjust the year, month, day, hour, and minute․
Confirm each setting by pressing “Select” to move to the next field․ Pay close attention to AM/PM selection to ensure correct time representation․ Once both date and time are accurately set, remember to save your changes․ Incorrect date or time settings can lead to watering schedules running at unintended times, impacting your landscape’s health and water conservation efforts․
Programming Watering Schedules
To program watering schedules on your Hunter Pro HC, access the “Schedule” menu within the programming mode․ You can create independent schedules for each zone, tailoring watering to specific landscape needs․ Begin by selecting a zone and setting a start time․ Next, define the watering duration for that zone, considering plant type and soil conditions․
Specify watering days – options include individual days, odd/even days, or intervals․ Repeat this process for each zone, creating customized schedules․ Utilize the controller’s flexibility to optimize water usage and promote healthy growth․ Remember to save each schedule after configuration to activate it․ Regularly review and adjust schedules based on seasonal changes and weather patterns․
Cycle and Soak Functionality
The Hunter Pro HC controller features a valuable “Cycle and Soak” function, designed to improve water absorption and minimize runoff, particularly on sloped terrains or with compacted soils․ This feature divides a single watering event into multiple shorter cycles, interspersed with “soak” periods․
During the soak period, water penetrates the soil, reducing the likelihood of water flowing away․ To activate Cycle and Soak, access the zone settings and enable the function․ Configure the cycle length and soak duration based on your soil type and landscape․ This promotes deeper root growth and conserves water․ Regularly monitor your landscape to fine-tune these settings for optimal performance․
Seasonal Adjustments
The Hunter Pro HC controller allows for convenient seasonal adjustments to your watering schedules, adapting to changing weather patterns and plant needs․ As temperatures rise or fall, adjust the overall watering percentage to increase or decrease run times across all zones․ This ensures efficient water usage throughout the year․
Access the seasonal adjustment feature through the main programming menu․ A positive percentage increases run times, while a negative percentage decreases them․ Utilize local weather data and observe plant health to determine appropriate adjustments․ The Hydrawise app offers weather-based adjustments, automating this process for optimal water conservation and landscape health․
Advanced Features
Hunter Pro HC controllers unlock features like Hydrawise app control, remote monitoring, and compatibility with Hunter flow and rain sensors․
Using the Hunter Hydrawise App
The Hunter Hydrawise app provides a user-friendly interface for remote control and monitoring of your Pro-HC controller․ Access it via hydrawise․com/support for detailed setup instructions․ This cloud-based platform allows adjustments to watering schedules from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating the need for manual controller adjustments․
Key features include real-time monitoring of system status, historical data analysis for optimized watering, and customizable alerts for potential issues like sensor malfunctions or flow sensor activations․ The app simplifies complex programming, offering intuitive tools for creating and managing zones, cycles, and seasonal adjustments․ Furthermore, Hydrawise facilitates easy sharing of controller access with landscape professionals, ensuring collaborative irrigation management․
Remote Control and Monitoring
Hunter Pro-HC controllers, when paired with the Hydrawise app, offer comprehensive remote control and monitoring capabilities․ Users can access and modify watering schedules, view real-time system status, and receive instant alerts—all from a smartphone or computer․ This eliminates the need to physically access the controller for routine adjustments or troubleshooting․
The Hydrawise platform provides detailed historical data, enabling informed decisions about water usage and optimization․ Remote monitoring features include zone status, sensor readings, and flow sensor data, allowing for proactive identification of leaks or system malfunctions․ This level of control ensures efficient water management and minimizes potential damage, even when you’re away from the property․
Rain Sensor Compatibility
Hunter Pro-HC controllers are designed for seamless compatibility with both Hunter and standard rain sensors, enhancing water conservation efforts․ Connecting a rain sensor automatically suspends scheduled irrigation during rainfall, preventing overwatering and promoting efficient resource utilization․ The controller features dedicated terminals for easy sensor wiring, simplifying the installation process․
Hunter rain sensors utilize a wireless communication protocol, eliminating the need for trenching and providing flexible placement options․ Standard wired rain sensors can also be connected directly to the controller․ Proper sensor configuration within the Hydrawise app allows for customized rainfall thresholds and bypass settings, tailoring the system to specific climate conditions and landscape needs․
Flow Sensor Integration
Hunter Pro-HC controllers offer advanced flow sensor integration capabilities, providing real-time monitoring of water usage and leak detection․ Connecting a flow sensor allows the controller to measure the actual water flow rate during irrigation cycles, identifying potential issues like broken pipes or malfunctioning valves․ This proactive approach minimizes water waste and prevents costly damage․
The Hydrawise app displays flow rate data, historical usage patterns, and alerts users to any anomalies․ Customizable flow thresholds can be set to automatically shut off the system in the event of a significant leak․ Flow sensor integration enhances system efficiency, promotes responsible water management, and provides valuable insights into irrigation performance․ Proper installation and calibration are crucial for accurate readings․
Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues, error codes, controller resets, and provides contact information for Hunter Support, ensuring system functionality․
Common Issues and Solutions
Addressing typical problems with your Hunter Pro HC controller is crucial for maintaining a healthy irrigation system․ A frequent issue involves zones not activating; verify wiring connections at both the controller and valve, and confirm the program schedule is correctly set․ If the display is blank, check the power supply and fuse․ Hydrawise app connectivity problems often stem from Wi-Fi signal strength – ensure a stable connection․
For unresponsive sensors, inspect wiring and sensor compatibility․ If valves are continuously running, a short circuit or faulty valve could be the cause․ Regularly inspect valve wires for damage․ Remember to consult the full manual or Hunter Support for complex issues, and always disconnect power before performing any electrical work․ Proper troubleshooting extends the life of your controller and prevents water waste․
Error Codes and Meanings
Hunter Pro HC controllers utilize error codes to diagnose system malfunctions․ A “Low Voltage” error indicates insufficient power, requiring a check of the transformer and wiring․ “Sensor Fault” signals a problem with connected sensors – verify wiring and sensor functionality․ “Valve Fault” suggests an issue with a specific zone’s valve, potentially a short circuit or broken wire․
“Communication Error” typically arises with Hydrawise connectivity, needing a Wi-Fi reset or app troubleshooting․ A “Memory Error” is rare but may necessitate a controller reset․ Refer to the comprehensive manual for a complete list and detailed explanations of each code․ Addressing these errors promptly prevents extensive irrigation issues and ensures efficient water usage․ Always document the error code before contacting Hunter Support․
Resetting the Controller
Resetting your Hunter Pro HC controller can resolve various software glitches and restore factory settings․ A “soft reset” restarts the unit without erasing programs – achieved by cycling power off and on․ For a “factory reset,” navigate to the settings menu within the controller interface or Hydrawise app․ This erases all programming, returning the controller to its original state․
Caution: a factory reset requires complete reprogramming․ Before resetting, document your existing schedule․ If the controller is unresponsive, a manual reset might be necessary, involving a specific button combination (consult the manual)․ Resetting should be a last resort after attempting other troubleshooting steps․ Always back up your settings via Hydrawise before performing a factory reset․
Contacting Hunter Support
Hunter Industries provides comprehensive support for the Pro HC controller․ For immediate assistance, visit their official website – hydrawise․com/support – which hosts a detailed FAQ section, troubleshooting guides, and instructional videos․ You can also access downloadable manuals and software updates․
For personalized support, contact Hunter’s technical support team directly via phone or email․ Phone support hours are typically Monday-Friday, during business hours․ Email inquiries usually receive a response within 24-48 hours․ When contacting support, have your controller model number and serial number readily available to expedite the process․ Detailed instructions and wiring diagrams are also available online․
Maintenance and Care
Regular cleaning, winterization procedures, battery checks, and firmware updates ensure optimal Hunter Pro HC controller performance and longevity throughout the seasons․
Cleaning the Controller
To maintain the Hunter Pro HC controller’s functionality and appearance, regular cleaning is recommended․ Begin by disconnecting the power supply to ensure safety․ Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe down the exterior casing, removing any accumulated dust or dirt․ Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the plastic components or the LCD screen․
For stubborn grime, a mild soap solution can be used, but ensure the cloth is only slightly moistened and thoroughly rinsed afterward․ Pay particular attention to the areas around the buttons and the wiring access points, as these tend to collect debris․ Do not spray water directly onto the controller; instead, apply it to the cloth․ After cleaning, allow the controller to dry completely before reconnecting the power․ Consistent cleaning will help prevent corrosion and ensure reliable operation for years to come․
Winterizing the System
Proper winterization is crucial to protect your Hunter Pro HC irrigation system from freezing temperatures․ Begin by shutting off the main water supply to the system․ Then, manually run each zone to blow out any remaining water from the pipes – this prevents cracking due to ice expansion․ Disconnect and drain all hoses and backflow preventers․
For the controller itself, disconnect the power supply․ If the controller is housed outdoors, consider removing it for indoor storage in a dry location to further protect it from the elements․ Inspect wiring for any damage and address it before re-installing in the spring․ Remember to remove any rain or flow sensors connected to the system․ Following these steps will ensure a smooth start-up when warmer weather returns․
Battery Replacement
The Hunter Pro HC controller utilizes a battery to maintain the programmed schedule during power outages․ A low battery can lead to program loss, so regular replacement is essential․ The controller will typically display a low battery icon as a warning․ To replace the battery, first, ensure the controller is powered off․ Locate the battery compartment – usually on the controller’s circuit board․
Carefully remove the old battery and replace it with a new one of the correct type (typically a 9V alkaline battery)․ Ensure proper polarity alignment․ Reinstall the battery compartment cover securely․ After replacement, verify the date and time are correct, as a complete power loss may reset these settings․ Consistent battery checks safeguard your irrigation schedule․
Firmware Updates
Maintaining up-to-date firmware on your Hunter Pro HC controller ensures optimal performance and access to the latest features․ Firmware updates often include bug fixes, improved compatibility, and enhanced functionality within the Hydrawise app․ To check for updates, access the controller through the Hydrawise web portal or mobile application․
Navigate to the controller settings and select the “Firmware Update” option․ The system will automatically scan for available updates․ If an update is found, follow the on-screen prompts to initiate the download and installation process․ Avoid interrupting the update process, as this could damage the controller․ A stable internet connection is crucial during the update․