Stupid Question on how to use a multimeter
 

My sprinkler system isn't working in the new house I moved into. I want to find out if I am getting any current and the solenoid.

So I have a meter, who do I use it?

I would assume I am looking to see if 24 volts was getting to the valve solenoid, but not sure what I set on the meter?

This is the one that I picked up at homedepot

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/...500_AA300_.jpg

Thanks for helping out the challenged.

Set to DC volts to measure current. Use the higher setting than what you expect. Funny, I was testing some Malibu lights last week and was surprised that the low voltage from the transformer was actually AC 12v.

If your transformer puts out 24VAC then turn it to 240 on the dial with the wavy line. If it is DC then use the same setting on the dial with the dashed and straight line.
I was typing while Milt posted.

And plug the black wire in COM and red in VOhmA.

You'd want to set it on "VDC" in the voltage range you're looking for. Hard for me to make out the settings from your pic.

Suggestion: Craftsman part # 82303...a great little book:
Multitesters and their use for electrical testing.

Best 10 bucks for reference material I've ever spent.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1290983183.jpg
get one of these it auto-ranges ac/dc volts. just select V and it figures out everything else. And get the book. The pen looking tool is handy to check outlets and switches that you want to work on so you don't zap yourself.

Thanks guys, well I don't claim to know what I am doing. I found out the wands had covers on them, and that is why I wasn't getting any readings.

The good news is I figured out the common wire was broken, so a simple replacement of the wire and it all works. The good news is the past owner put PVC under the walkway, which made it easy to get the wire over to the valves. It also gave me the time to clean up the wires.

Thanks everyone.

Ha ha ha ha :)

All's well that ends well. :)