Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller Manual (2024)

Contents

What's in the box

Magnetic Faceplate

Smart Sprinkler Controller

3 Screws with Anchors

Power Adapter

What you'll need

Wi-Fi Access (2.4 or 5 GHz)

Smartphone or Tablet

Phillips Screwdriver

Hammer (Drywall Installs)

Drill and Drill Bit (Drywall Installs)

The Rachio 3 Sprinkler Controller is designed for indoor installation. If outdoor installation is required, you'll need our weather-resistant enclosure.
Learn more at rachio.com/outdoors.

Need some help?

Check out our Help Center
support.rachio.com

Give us a call.
1 (833) 722 4463

Not sure what to do with your old controller? We'll recycle it for free! Visit rachio.com/recycle.

Step 1. Out with the old!

Test your old system to ensure everything works properly. Photograph the wiring inside your existing controller to reference during installation. Remove your old controller from the wall.

Test Sprinklers

Photograph Wiring

Remove Controller

Step 2. Mark screw locations

Use the Mounting Template at the end of this guide to mark where you want to install your Rachio 3.

For Drywall Installation:
Drill holes at marked locations for the anchors. Use a 3/16 inch bit to drill through the drywall, then use a hammer to gently tap each anchor into place.

Step 3. In with the new!

Remove the Rachio 3's magnetic faceplate. Mount your new controller by screwing it onto the wall using the provided screws.

Ensure the lower holes are level, and use a pencil to mark the center of each hole.

Make sure your wires have enough slack to reach the drill icon above!

Step 4. Connect your wires

While referencing the photo of your previous wiring, insert the wires into the appropriate terminals. Things not matching up? Visit rachio.com/wiring for tips on advanced wiring.

Common Wires

Common wires are often labeled "C" or "Com." You can insert them into any of the white "C" terminals.

Zone Wires

Zone wires correspond to your landscape's zones. Insert them into the blue, numbered terminals.

Master Valve

Not all systems have a master valve. Master valve wires are often labeled "M," "MV," or "Pump." If you have a master valve, wire it into the dark gray "M" terminal.

Sensor Wires (Optional)

You are able to connect up to two rain or flow sensors to your controller using the "S1," "S2," and 24VAC sensor power terminals. For more information, visit rachio.com/sensors.

Step 5. Create an account

Find the Rachio app on the Apple App Store, on Google Play or by visiting rachio.com/download.

Once the app is installed, create your account.

Step 6. Connect to Wi-Fi

Open the Rachio app and select "Add Controller." The app will guide you through this process.

Once your controller is online, the light bar will pulse blue. You can now replace the magnetic faceplate.

Step 7. Complete setup on the app

Now that the controller is online, use the Rachio app to customize your zones and create a schedule.

Congrats, you did it!

Want to learn more about what you can do with your new Rachio 3?

Control your system remotely.

Integrate your smart home.

Optimize your waterings.

Visit rachio.com/more.

Manual Controls

Zones can be run directly from the controller, if needed. Use the forward and back buttons to select a zone on the light bar, then select play.