Auto Timer for garden hose

Discussion in 'Off-Topic Discussion' started by Chilled, Jun 6, 2024.

  1. Chilled

    Chilled Apprentice Gardener

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    I would like to control the watering of my garden while away for three or four weeks.
    I've tried setting up the unit shown but it does not have a timer. Because my water pressure is so low I need two sprinklers (one for each half of the garden) that can be set to come on at different intervals. Any suggestions greatly appreciated. P1060345.JPG
     
  2. JWK

    JWK Gardener Staff Member

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    One of my timers is like that, if you set zone 1 frequency to 6 hours and run time to 5 minutes , then it will come on 4 times a day for 5 minutes each time. Set it to 12 hours then it comes on twice a day for 5 minutes.

    Is that what you needed to know?
     
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    • JWK

      JWK Gardener Staff Member

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      When you say your water pressure is low, is it off the mains or a butt?
       
    • DiggersJo

      DiggersJo Keen Gardener

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      I agree with @JWK . To get different times for them you probably just need to set them (each zone) at different times (say 15 minutes apart or longer than the run time setting).
      Problem with this kind of timer is the fact it kicks off the frequency based on the time you set it, tricky if you want the middle of the night!
       
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      • Chilled

        Chilled Apprentice Gardener

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        Setting the frequency and run time is fine, the fact that it has no actual time clock on both outlets is the problem
        The supply is from the mains which is okay under normal operations but running two sprinklers at the same time is not quiet enough to reach all areas of my garden
        Absolutely, that's exactly the problem. If the two outlets had their own dedicated time clocks it would be the perfect set up. There are single units with time clocks for irrigation set ups but as yet I've not found a duel system suitable for hoses
         
      • JWK

        JWK Gardener Staff Member

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        With a dual system you set one side at say 12 o'clock every 8 hours, the first sprinkling will be at 8pm. Then an hour later set the second side every 8 hours, the first sprinkling on that side will be at 9pm for that side.

        In other words each timer starts running when you set it independently, they don't synchronise. You will have to experiment, maybe switch them to the off setting first to reset the timer.
         
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        • steephill

          steephill Gardener

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        • DiggersJo

          DiggersJo Keen Gardener

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          Yep, I've had several timers over the years and the above link from @steephill looks similar to my current Orbit (as this on Amazon). Not sure about current models but I've had my latest for 6-7 seasons. x2 front and back garden with two outlets on each. The one you have will work, it's just a bit of a faff to set.
           
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          • Chilled

            Chilled Apprentice Gardener

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