Which tool is best used to locate a buried valve?

The wire tracer is the best tool for locating a buried valve because it is specifically designed to follow buried wire paths. When irrigation systems are installed, electric valves are often connected by wires that run underground. A wire tracer can send a signal along the buried wire, enabling an operator to detect the location of the wire, and subsequently, the valve it controls.

Using a wire tracer enhances the accuracy and efficiency of locating underground components without the need for digging, which can be labor-intensive and could potentially damage the landscape or irrigation system. This tool is invaluable for preventive maintenance and troubleshooting, as it minimizes disruption while pinpointing specific locations underground.

Other tools, such as a pipe wrench or drill, do not serve the purpose of locating buried valves. A voltage meter is used for measuring electrical currents and voltages, which is not directly applicable for finding buried infrastructure.