Summary

If you need to update the Wi-Fi network your controller is connected to, reconnect the controller, or even reboot the controller in case of any possible errors, a Hardware Reset is the best initial step to start this process. Please note that unlike a Factory Reset, a Hardware Reset will not erase your device settings and data in the Rachio App, such as schedules and zone settings.

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Primary Reasons for a Hardware Reset

1. Before a Wi-Fi Update

If you've changed your Wi-Fi Network name or password, you will need to update the Wi-Fi on the controller. Before you do, perform a Hardware Reset to clear the controller’s memory of old Wi-Fi credentials which may cause conflicts.

2. When the controller is not booting up properly

If the light bar on your controller is not progressing past the first light (Light 1) during an attempted connection, perform a Hardware Reset to clear the controller’s memory of any residual data which may be preventing a successful boot up. This applies to both Rachio 3 and Generation 2 controllers.

Did you move to a home with a Rachio?

Did you inherit a used controller when moving to a home with a Rachio? We recommend transferring ownership and clearing all settings.

Controller offline? Got a new router?

You may just need to update your Wi-Fi Settings. Perform a Wi-Fi Reset

Looking to factory reset and remove your controller from your Rachio account?

Follow the steps in this article.

How to Hardware Reset my controller?

WARNING 

Hardware Resetting the controller will erase the settings stored within the unit itself, which means the controller will not water until it is reconnected. As long as you do not remove the controller from your Rachio account, your settings will be recovered once the controller is reconnected to the internet, and watering will continue as previously scheduled.

Rachio 3:

1. Unplug the controller from power for 5 seconds and plug it back in;

2. Press and hold the Stop Button (top of the round white button). You’ll see the light bar filling up in yellow. As soon as the entire light bar flashes blue, release the Stop Button.

3. Wait for the controller to boot up again. The first light will go solid blue and the second one will start flashing yellow. The controller is now ready to be reconnected. During reconnection, if the controller does not advance past the second light flashing yellow, please view this article for additional troubleshooting steps. 

Rachio Generation 2:

1. Unplug the controller;

2. With the controller unplugged, press and hold the Up Arrow and the Select Button. Keeping both buttons held down, plug the controller back in, and continue holding both buttons until the LED light ring is fully illuminated.

3. Once the LED light ring is fully illuminated, release both buttons. The first light at the bottom of the branch logo will turn solid blue, and the second light will begin flashing. The controller is now ready to be reconnected. During reconnection, if the controller does not advance past the second light, please view this article for additional troubleshooting steps.

Rachio Generation 1:

Leave your Gen 1 Rachio controller unplugged for 15 minutes to clear any residual data. The controller can now be reconnected. If you are unable to reconnect the controller, please view this article for additional troubleshooting steps.

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