What is the primary function of electric irrigation valves?

• A. To measure water saturation
• B. To turn water on and off in irrigation zones
• C. To connect the mainline to the service line
• D. To regulate the pressure of the system

Answer: (B)

The primary function of electric irrigation valves is to control the flow of water in irrigation systems by turning it on and off in specific zones. These valves are an essential component of automated irrigation systems, allowing for effective management of water distribution across different areas of a landscape. By opening or closing as instructed by a controller or timer, they ensure that each zone receives the appropriate amount of water at the designated times, promoting efficient water use and optimizing plant health.

While measuring water saturation is crucial for determining when to irrigate, this task is typically handled by soil moisture sensors rather than valves. Connecting mainlines to service lines involves the physical plumbing of the irrigation system and is unrelated to the function of electric valves. Regulating pressure is also important for system efficiency, but it is usually managed by pressure regulators rather than the valves themselves. Thus, the ability of electric irrigation valves to directly manage water flow makes them indispensable in irrigation systems.