This is the type of valve found on irrigation systems (24V ac). Is it
normal for them to buzz (loudly). I'm guessing not, maybe a slight hum
but not a loud buzz.

Try adjusting the solenoid valve. Usually you can take them apart and
re-install them.

loud buzzing is not "normal

usually indicates solenoid core not retracting to a "happy" position.

tap on it lightly when actuated, wee if it stops.

otherwise, unscrew it, rinse it out (be careful to not loose core or
little spring), re-install, check operation.

I had one that was all corroded (stainless bracket AND wires) hummed
like crazy, I replaced it with a new unit but I cleaned up the old,
soldered new leads & heat shriink tubing.

Works fine but I never put it back in service

cheers
Bob

This is Turtle.

I have two cures for a buzzing solenoid .

1] Remove coil off shaft and wrap scotch tap around the shaft and the
put the solinoid back on it. it Might stop it.

2} replace it.

TURTLE

On 29 Nov 2005 05:38:49 -0800, wrote:

This is the type of valve found on irrigation systems (24V ac). Is it
normal for them to buzz (loudly). I'm guessing not, maybe a slight hum
but not a loud buzz.

I think you have a valve that has been crossed with a bumblebee.

Now it doesn't just water your flowers, it will pollinate them too.


Remove NOPSAM to email me. Please let
me know if you have posted also.

wrote in message
ups.com...
This is the type of valve found on irrigation systems (24V ac). Is it
normal for them to buzz (loudly). I'm guessing not, maybe a slight hum
but not a loud buzz.

Other replies relate to solenoid chatter. This may very well be the nature
of the problem. However, I recently installed a new valve assembly in the
brass valve body and got a high pitched buzz whenever the valve was
actuated. I turned out that this was the result of restricting the flow by
manually closing the valve too far. The diaphragm which restricts the flow
(about 1" in diameter) is backed up by a spring and the two were resonating.
Backing off on the manual closure ended the problem.

Since our mains pressure here is about 95#, I was trying to minimize the
stress on some old plastic piping. Apparently, I just got more pressure
differential across the valve than the design could accommodate.

SJF

Nah, it's definately chatter since it also does it with the water off.

I'll replace the entire unit, costs less than the repair parts. Since
it's controlling the water supply for my heat pump I don't want to risk
it failing when it gets to -30C outside.