Sprinkler valve

The next step up from a ball valve, this is essentially a commercially produced diaphragm valve. However, they are unfortunately designed to open relatively slowly to prevent "water hammer", and the large number of internal turns decreases the flow of the valve (to roughly 60-70% of a piston/diaphragm valve with the same diameter). The performance can be improved by replacing the stock solenoid-valve vent with a pilot valve with more flow. Most often this is a blow gun, although for larger valves a ball valve or even a smaller sprinkler valve can be used. This operation is often called modding the valve. You can download a video of how to modify a sprinkler valve here

Troubleshooting

If you are having problems with your sprinkler valve, these are some things to try

Valve "Honks" or "sounds like an airhorn"

You need a larger pilot valve. For more information, see honking.

Valve won't seal

If your valve leaks air out the barrel, you should disassemble it and clean the diaphragm and seat. Check for any plastic chips that may have entered the valve. Smear the diaphragm and seat with lithium grease to promote a seal.