How do I install the controller outdoors? (Generation 2)

Depending on where you live, controllers are usually mounted indoors or outdoors. If outdoors, they're usually hardwired and can be a bit tricky to change out.  The Rachio Controller Generation  has a custom outdoor enclosure that makes it easy to swap out an existing controller and have a nice clean, elegant looking controller outdoors that can be locked up and hardwired. 

(link: outdoor enclosure store page)

Follow the three steps below to install the outdoor enclosure:

Before starting installation of this fixture or removal of a previous fixture, disconnect the power by turning off the circuit breaker or by removing the fuse at the fuse box. PLEASE CONSULT A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN IF YOU HAVE ANY ELECTRICAL QUESTIONS.

  1. Install the enclosure
    • Take photos of your wiring and label any duplicate colors to avoid confusion
    • Remove the old enclosure and controller from the wall
    • If you have wiring conduit coming into the old enclosure, make sure to account for any fittings and/or space requirements that differ on the Rachio enclosure
      • If the conduit does not align, cut and re-route as needed 
    • Mount the Rachio enclosure to the wall
      • If mounting to drywall, use anchors
  2. Connect the power
    • The controller will use the supplied power adaptor for both outlet and hardwire applications; connect the power using one of the two methods below:
      • Outdoor outlet: If your old controller had a power adapter and plugged into an outdoor outlet, please use the same outlet with the Rachio's power adaptor. 
        • Simply feed the power adaptor wiring through the bottom right hole of the enclosure and leave 6-9" of slack.
      • Hardwired power: If your old controller did not have a plug, you'll need to hardware the outlet inside the Rachio enclosure. 
        • Unscrew the two screws on the lid of the Hardwiring Bay to access the enclosure wires of the outlet. 
        • Feed the power supply wires through the bottom left hole of the enclosure.
        • Attach the wires using connector caps 
          • Black (or red) supply wire to the black enclosure wire
          • White supply wire to the white enclosure wire. 
          • If you have a ground wire (usually green) attach it to the enclosure ground wire.
        • Wrap all wire connections with electrical tape for a secure connection.
  3. Mount the controller
    • Pull valve and sensor wires through the center opening on the controller's base. Mount the controller to the enclosure using the included bolts
      • Mounting holes: top center + two bottom (do not use the center middle 
      • DO NOT install the cover on the base of the controller after it's mounted in the enclosure.

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