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Most of the information below is from a Rain Bird DV valve installation instruction pamphlet which is out of print. Some of the information below is from a newer, much smaller, and somewhat less informative flyer which replaced the larger pamphlet.

These instructions are generally quite good. In the interest of reproducing the instructions accurately, and so that we could attribute the source as being from Rain Bird, we have refrained from modifying them in any way (except for fixing a couple of their spelling errors and probably adding a couple of typos of our own!) The only way in which our opinion deviates from the advice below is that we recommend either multi-strand or solid wire (not just multi-strand) and we generally discourage manifolding valves, ESPECIALLY above ground! Also, it's not necessary to buy the specific Rain Bird water tight connector mentioned- there are several good ones available.

Those details (mentioned above) that we take issue with are pretty specific, and are only a small part of what's covered below. In general, you would be well served to read these instructions thoroughly when installing ANY brand of valve, although the appearance and features of other valves will vary somewhat.


Rain Bird DV Valve Instructions


Rain Bird DV Valve parts Parts include:
A = flow control stem
B = solenoid
C = bonnet
D = bonnet screws (6)
E = diaphragm location
F = body
G = inlet
H = outlet
Parts not shown:
Solenoid handle (at B)
Flow control handle (at A)

General Information
The DV series of valves offer an array of products in both sizes and features to meet the standard installation needs for residential and light commercial irrigation requirements.


Tips on Installation


Valves are not backflow prevention devices. You will need to install the appropriate device as mandated by local ordinance prior to the installation of the irrigation valve. Ensure that the selected device offers adequate flow and pressure to the downstream portion of the system to operate the sprinklers.
Installing a Rain Bird DV valve

Installation Steps


  • Adequately flush the main water source prior to plumbing in the valves.
  • Notice the directional arrows on the inlet and outlet ports which indicate the flow path of the water. Valves cannot be reversed. Ensure that you are installing the valve correctly. As a hint, you will find that the solenoid is always positioned on the downstream side of the valve where the water will be exiting to serve the sprinklers.
  • The standard 3/4" and 1" DV comes with female threads. Use a 3/4" or 1" male by slip adapter to connect the valve to the water source. Use two wraps of Teflon® tape on the adapters and screw them into the water ports of the valve. Finger tighten into position and then turn one or two additional turns using a wrench to ensure water tight connections.
  • Do not overtighten the adapter, or you could force the adapter to extrude over the solenoid exit port. the valve will not activate in this condition, Once properly attached, glue the slip portion of the adapter into the supply side pipe. Complete this step for all valves on a given master or isolation valve.
  • The DV SxS valve eliminates the need for the adapter. In this case, simply glue the pipe into the two water ports of the valve. Use only minimal primer and glue to eliminate possible contamination of the valve ports from glue residue.
  • In cold weather climates, it is more common to use poly pipe. Use appropriate installation techniques as specified by the manufacturer to properly attach and secure the poly adapter to the valve. Local practice will dictate the number of clamps used to secure the adapter.
  • Slowly charge the water supply system to the installed valves. When the water first enters the system, the valves will open until the upper diaphragm chamber charges and shuts down the valve.

Wiring Rain Bird DV valves

Wiring the Valve (See figure above.)
The DV valve comes with two lead wires, both black. Either one may be used as the common or as the hot wire back to the controller.


Determining Valve Wire Sizes


drawing for determining wire sizes for irrigation valves

Rain Bird DV valve controls

Manually Activating the System
The DV valve series offers two ways of manually activating the system.

  • The solenoid allows manual activation of the system with internal downstream bleed. Utilizing this method will eliminate water in the valve box. On the side of the solenoid, arrows indicate the on and off position. You need turn only 1/4 turn CCW to manually activate the valve using the solenoid. Since the solenoid seat is subject to system pressure, it may be difficult to turn in jigh pressure situations. Turn 1/4 turn CW to close the valve after flushing.
  • The external bleed screw offers an alternative manual option. Because it is assisted by the pressure of the system, it may be easier to engage than the solenoid under high pressures. It is located on top of the bonnet assembly and may be turned to activate the valve. You will only need to turn it one turn before water starts to exit the valve directly below the bleed screw. Do not turn any further as the screw is not captive and may come out.
  • Use the external bleed screw to flush the valve prior to electrically activating it. Continue piping the system until completion of the valve installation. Activate the valves electrically from the controller to ensure proper functioning.

drawing of flow control stem

Flow Control Stem

The flow control stem allows you to reduce valve output pressure by turning down the stem until the desired effect is seen in the sprinkler operation. You may turn the handle with your fingers or use a slotted screwdriver.


drawing of Rain Bird DV filters

Filters

The DV series has two filters in the water flow path to reduce plugging of the valve ports.

  • One filter is on the diaphragm to filter the upper chamber water supply. Do not remove the diaphragm filter because the valve will not operate. The other filter is in the solenoid to prevent plugging of the solenoid ports and to keep debris off the plunger if the solenoid is removed. Both filters are sized to allow the proper flow of water to achieve the desired hydraulic effects.

Winterization

As with all irrigation components, it is important to properly winterize the valves prior to the first hard freeze. Local practices will dictate how this is done, but blowing the system generally provides the best protection. Failure to properly winterize may result in damage to the valves as water captured in the valve freezes.


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The staff at WaterTips.com

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