How do I install a Rachio Controller outdoors? Weatherproof Outdoor Enclosure

Last Update:Oct 25 2024 5:59pm • Est. Read Time:Est. Read Time: 4 MIN

Outdoor Installation

Rachio controllers can be installed outdoors by using a Rachio Weatherproof Outdoor Enclosure. Our outdoor enclosure protects your controller from the elements and keeps it safe from water damage. Are you looking for instructions on how to install your Weatherproof Outdoor Enclosure? This article can help you with that. 


  Find a Rachio Pro

Installing outdoors can be more challenging than the typical indoor installation. Need some help? Rachio has teamed up with TaskRabbit to provide controller installation services to our customers. Hiring a Tasker is easy!

Visit Rachio's dedicated TaskRabbit site



Video Guide

Want to preview the installation steps? Check out our video below demonstrating the outdoor installation of the Rachio 3 and Generation 2 Smart Sprinkler Controllers. 


Installation Instructions 

The Rachio Controller has a custom outdoor enclosure that makes it easy to swap out an existing controller and have a clean, elegant looking outdoor controller that can be locked up and hardwired.


 Closed View 
 Open View (without controller mounted) 

Purchase from  Rachio.com or  Amazon.


Installation Steps


Caution

Before installing this fixture or removing a previous fixture, disconnect the power by turning off the circuit breaker or by removing the fuse at the fuse box. IF YOU HAVE ANY ELECTRICAL QUESTIONS, PLEASE CONSULT A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN. Need help with your installation? Visit Rachio's dedicated TaskRabbit site.

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

  • Conduit opening measurements
    • Hardwired power: 0-7/8 inch
    • Zone wiring: 1-1/8 inch (knockout enlarges to 1-3/8 inch) 
  • Mount the Rachio enclosure to the wall
    • If mounting to drywall, use anchors

2) Hardwire Power

  • The controller will use the supplied power adaptor for both outlet and hardwire applications; connect the power using the method below:
    • Outdoor outlet: If your old controller had a power adapter and plugged into an outdoor rated & covered 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.
    • Power Adaptor doesn't fit in your outdoor rated & covered outlet?




        • Follow the steps listed in hardwiring (below), then plug the pigtail into your outlet!
      • Hardwired power: If your old controller did not have a plug, you'll need to hardwire 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.
        • TURN OFF POWER to your hardwire power source. Clean and straighten the wires. Attach a  strain relief bushing  (not included) if you have slack in the wire -or- if you're installing a pigtail. Position the bushing about an inch below the beginning of the black insulation.




        • 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. This is your power supply wire, also known as "hot".
        • White supply wire to the white enclosure wire. This is typically the common/neutral 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.
        • Close Hardwiring Bay of the outdoor enclosure with the cover and two screws that came with the enclosure.

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. 
  • Note

    The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller has streamlined hardware for quick and easy installation. Our new easy-press connectors accommodate 14 & 18 gauge wire, making Rachio 3 installation a breeze compared to other controllers on the market. Most installations can be completed in 30 minutes or less, with no special tools or expertise required! The Rachio app provides guided installation every step of the way. Steps are easy – replace your old controller, plug in existing wires, and complete setup within the free Rachio app.

Rachio user Chris Vazquez did an AMAZING job installing his Rachio 3 in a Weatherproof Outdoor Enclosure! 

Technical Drawings