Sprinkler wire connects your irrigation controller to valve solenoids, delivering reliable, low-voltage signals so each zone runs on schedule. Designed for outdoor and underground use, irrigation wire features rugged jackets, color-coded conductors, and moisture protection that stand up to soil, UV, and seasonal changes. Whether you are installing a new system or repairing a broken run, choosing the right cable cuts downtime, reduces troubleshooting, and keeps landscapes healthy.

Common options include multi-conductor 18 AWG copper for residential runs, heavier gauges for long distances to minimize voltage drop, and direct-burial rated cable with sunlight-resistant PE or PVC jackets. Solid copper conductors provide crisp connections in screw terminals, while stranded builds add flexibility around bends or in retrofit conduit. Look for UL-listed, CL2, and irrigation-rated markings, plus compatibility with popular brands like Rain Bird, Hunter, and Toro controllers and valves.

For straightforward installs, choose a conductor count that matches your zones plus one common wire. For example, a 5-zone setup often uses 6-conductor cable. Use gel-filled, waterproof connectors for splices, maintain proper burial depth, and leave slack for future repairs. In rocky or high-traffic areas, pull wire through schedule 40 PVC conduit to add protection.

Troubleshooting is easier with quality wire. Color-coded leads speed identification, lower resistance helps solenoids actuate consistently, and durable jackets resist nicks that cause shorts. If a zone fails, use a multimeter for continuity, check voltage at the valve, and inspect splices for corrosion. For long runs or many zones, consider heavier gauge or a home-run layout to reduce shared-resistance issues.

Shop options include direct-burial irrigation wire, multi-conductor sprinkler cable, and repair kits. Choose long spools to minimize joints. Prioritize copper conductors, UV-resistant jackets, and solid warranties. The right sprinkler wire supports reliable schedules, water savings, greener lawns, and fewer service calls across residential and commercial landscapes today.