I have a five zone sprinkler system that includes a controller
(Richdel model 446PR) and a pump that pulls water from our backyard
pond.

The controller can turn the pump on and off by toggling a relay switch
connected to the pump. The relay switch has not been working. When I
disconnect the wires from the relay and test them with a voltage
meter, it registers 28.5vac. Since it's a 24vac relay, things should
be fine. But when I connect the wires to the relay the voltage drops
to 8.5vac and cannot flip the switch. Does anyone know why the
voltage drops like that?

On 29 Jun 2003, Brooks Of Sheffield wrote:
I have a five zone sprinkler system that includes a controller
(Richdel model 446PR) and a pump that pulls water from our backyard
pond.

The controller can turn the pump on and off by toggling a relay switch
connected to the pump. The relay switch has not been working. When I
disconnect the wires from the relay and test them with a voltage
meter, it registers 28.5vac. Since it's a 24vac relay, things should
be fine. But when I connect the wires to the relay the voltage drops
to 8.5vac and cannot flip the switch. Does anyone know why the
voltage drops like that?

Sounds like the relay coil is shorted (burned out).

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