Sprinkler Irrigation Timers | Everything You Should Know
Sprinkler timers are devices that automatically turn on and off your sprinkler system based on an efficient watering schedule.
They can be either manual or automatic, with the latter being more expensive but offering greater convenience. Many timers also come with features like rain sensors that allow them to suspend watering during periods of rainfall.
Irrigation timers make maintaining your lawn easier and more convenient by taking care of the watering for you. This also helps to reduce water waste as you can set them to only water as often as necessary.
If you're interested in learning more about irrigation timers, we've created this guide on everything you should know about these nifty devices.
We'll discuss the importance of these sprinkler timers, the different types, and answer questions like "how do you put sprinklers on a timer?" and "do sprinklers need electricity?"Let’s dive in!
Why Sprinkler Timers Matter
Sprinkler timers are a great addition to your irrigation system because they help deliver the correct amount of water to your plants.
They also help you cut down on water waste, which means more savings as you maintain the beauty and health of your landscape.
Moreover, automatic timers can be set to turn on and off at specific intervals, which further adds to conserving energy and saving money on electricity bills.
With a properly working sprinkler timer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your plants are getting the right amount of water at the most optimal times to stay healthy and thrive.
The Different Types of Irrigation Timers
There are two major types of irrigation timers:
Mechanical Sprinkler Timers
Mechanical irrigation timers are a type of sprinkler timer that uses a series of gears and cams to open and close the valve, which in turn controls the flow of water to the sprinklers.
The number of gears and cams determines the amount of time that the valve is open or closed.
They must be set manually, but they're also considered economical. They're easy to operate and program.
Additionally, they are less vulnerable to power spikes and surges.
2. Electronic Sprinkler Timers
Electronic irrigation timers are devices that are used to automate the process of watering your plants.
They can be set to turn on and off at certain times, or they can be set to operate based on soil moisture levels. The automatic shut-off feature turns the timer off when the preset amount of water has been dispensed.
This is helpful if you forget to turn the timer off, or if there is a power outage.
Another useful feature is battery backup, which allows the timer to continue operating even if there is a power outage. The batteries will need to be replaced periodically, but this feature can be a lifesaver if your power goes out in the middle of a heatwave.
Lastly, you can do a manual override to turn the timer on or off without having to change the settings. This can be helpful if you need to water your plants by hand.
Timers for Drip Irrigation
Drip irrigation is a type of irrigation that saves water and fertilizer by allowing water to drip slowly to the roots of plants, either onto the soil surface or directly onto the root zone, through a network of valves, pipes, tubing, and emitters. It’s done through a system of timers that release small doses of water at regular intervals.
Learn more about drip irrigation vs traditional sprinkler systems in our blog here!
How to Put Sprinklers on a Timer | Do Sprinklers Need Electricity?
Manual sprinklers don't need electricity to run. You simply have to turn them on and off as needed. There are also solar-powered irrigation systems that operate directly from your water source.
Conversely, automatic sprinkler systems do need electricity to function, especially the irrigation timers or controllers.
If you’re wondering how to put sprinklers on a timer, you first have to determine whether you have a digital or mechanical irrigation timer. Digital timers utilize electronic circuits to run the system. On the other hand, mechanical timers work using gears and metal pins.
Programming Digital Sprinkler Timers
Digital sprinklers utilize electronic circuits to run the system. If you have one of these systems in place, here’s how you would program it:
To start, find the main water line coming into your home. Once you’ve located it, shut off the water to prevent any accidental flooding.
Next, locate the digital sprinkler controller unit. This is usually mounted on an exterior wall near the main water line.
Now, it’s time to program your digital sprinkler timer. Begin by pressing the “clock” button until the correct time is displayed.
Next, press the “day” button to select the days of the week you’d like the sprinklers to run.
Finally, press the “zone” button to choose which sprinkler heads should turn on during each cycle.
Once you’ve programmed your timer, screw the faceplate back onto the controller unit and turn on the main water line.
Your digital sprinkler timer is now set and will automatically water your lawn or garden according to the schedule you’ve created.
Programming Mechanical Sprinkler Timers
Meanwhile, mechanical sprinklers rely on a system of gears and cams that work to open and shut valves based on their positioning. They can be programmed with the following procedure:
Since mechanical timers use gear and metal pins, you have to open them by unscrewing the top part or popping it open with a small screwdriver.
Then, locate the time settings, which are usually on a small metal disk with numbers around the edge.
Insert the metal pins into the correct time slots according to when you want the sprinklers to turn on and off. Make sure the pins are pushed in all the way so they make contact with the disk.
Close up your timer and screw it back together.
Once it’s closed, your timer should start ticking and the sprinklers will turn on and off at the specified times.
What Times to Schedule Your Sprinkler Timer to Run?
Determining the best times to schedule your sprinkler timer to run depends on many factors, such as the type of plants you are watering, the amount of sun and heat they are exposed to, the soil moisture level, and your water pressure.
In general, it’s best to water early in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler to avoid evaporation.
If you have automatic sprinklers, check your manufacturer's instructions to see if there is a recommended range of settings for different types of plants.
For example, setting the timer for 15-20 minutes per day may be adequate for lawns, while flower beds may need 30 minutes per day.
You may want to water more during times of extreme heat, such as in the summer months. The heat can put a lot of stress on your garden bed, so you need to rehydrate them well.
Professional Irrigation Timer Installation
If you want to have sprinkler timers on your lawn, it’s best to contact the experts to ensure proper installation.
We offer professional irrigation timer installation services, including trenching as well as setting up the pipes and wires, to maintain the beauty of properties throughout the Southern Illinois and St. Louis Metro East area.