Irrigation timer: installation and placement options, how to connect and use, photo recommendations for choice

Review author: Terrari School of Design

Over the past few decades, the life of the world's population has changed significantly. Thanks to progress, a person’s work has become significantly easier and time is saved. Modern technologies and innovations have touched literally all spheres of life.

They did not bypass agriculture either. Caring for plants has now become much easier and more efficient. So, for example, now you don’t have to monitor the watering of plants, but use a special device for these purposes - timers for automatic watering.

Let's look in more detail: what is an irrigation timer and why is it needed.

Design and principle of operation

Visually, the watering timer resembles a regular water meter. The device has a special mechanism or program that allows you to set up an individual operating plan for the device - program a watering schedule. The device body is made of strong and waterproof materials.

Timers for gravity systems are usually mobile devices that can be easily moved and usually do not require power from the electrical network, which is especially true for large areas.

The essence of the operation of a self-timer is similar to a shut-off valve. One side of the device is connected to a water pipe, and the other to a regular watering hose.

At the set time, the timer opens a shut-off valve similar to a ball valve and water flow begins, which irrigates the required area. And when the watering work is completed, the hole closes and watering stops.

Additional features

Together with electronic timers, you can install additional sensors, which will greatly facilitate the setup of the device:

Rain sensor. It can record natural precipitation. If necessary, the timer can skip one watering.

Such a sensor allows you to set the amount of precipitation from which you need to turn off watering. This makes it possible not to skip watering during light precipitation. Thanks to this sensor, you can avoid unnecessary watering and save water.

Diaphragm pump. It can be built-in or sold separately. Allows you to monitor the water level in the storage tank. When the minimum is reached, the pump turns on and fills the container. After which it will automatically turn off.

Radio channel sensor. Measures soil moisture in an area. If the soil moisture is sufficient, it will cancel the start of watering. In this way, it is possible to increase productivity, since there will be no excess moisture on the site.

Water purification filter. Thoroughly purifies the water, so the timer can last much longer.

The listed sensors can be included as standard or purchased additionally.

The gravity irrigation system is very convenient. Adding a timer to it will avoid the need to frequently be present at the dacha to turn the watering on and off. At the same time, the soil will always be sufficiently moistened, which will allow you to get an excellent harvest.

Varieties

There are several types of watering timers, differing in many respects. A certain type of controller will have both its pros and cons.

It is also worth considering that one timer may be convenient for a certain type of work, while in other circumstances it will not be suitable at all.

DIY controller design

If for some reason you do not want to purchase it in a store, you can make it yourself. There are many methods for assembling a timer with your own hands, the most popular of which are listed below.

The simplest irrigation controller

The simplest irrigation controller is easy to make with your own hands. This does not require any additional knowledge. All that is needed is a fiber like that used in kerosene lamps and a container with a side height of 5-10 centimeters. The operation scheme is very simple. One end of the fiber falls to the bottom of the container. Once it is completely saturated, water will start dripping from the other end. It should be placed above the plant that needs watering. This way the humidity level will be maintained. If more abundant watering is needed, you need to take thicker fiber.

You can also build a drip irrigation device with your own hands from an ordinary medical dropper, the principle of operation of which is known to every person.

Ball valve regulating device

To make it yourself you will need the following materials and products:

• water container;
• tap;
• plywood circle - 2 pieces;
• five liter bottle;
• assembly adhesive;
• sewing threads.

To install the irrigation controller, the faucet needs to be slightly modified. Instead of a handle for closing and opening the tap, you need to install a pulley.

1. The pulley is made of two plywood circles. They are glued together with glue. Sewing thread is wound onto the pulley; to make the structure reliable, it is necessary to make several turns.
2. A balance and a compensator for its weight, that is, a container of water, must be attached to the second end of the cord. The weight of the load must be selected so that it is enough for the crane to become a lever.
3. Adjusting the weight of the load is very simple. To do this, you need to alternately add the necessary components to the bottle with water and sand.
4. Load compensator, that is, a bottle of water. To do this, you need to make a small hole in its bottom. When the mass of the compensator decreases, the load will begin to pull the rocker pulley towards itself, thanks to which the valve will open.

It can be connected either to a water container with a tap installed on it, or to a water supply system. In the case of a container, its level should exceed the surface of the ground with planted plants that require watering.

In the case of plumbing, everything is a little simpler. But nevertheless, the location of the water supply line should be at least 1.5-2 meters above ground level. Otherwise, the ballast and timer tank will not be able to function due to lack of room to maneuver.

Timer for mechanical drip irrigation

A timer for mechanical drip irrigation is a fairly easy-to-use device, the operating principle of which can be compared to the operation of a simple watch or the very first microwave ovens.

The main mechanism of mechanical watering timers operates on a spring, which can provide continuous watering for an entire day. Disadvantages of this type:

• Watering must be controlled;
• All settings are made manually;
• There is no digital display/screen on the case;
• As a rule, on such timers you can only set the shutdown time, that is, you need to turn on the water supply yourself.

Among the advantages, it is worth highlighting the following:

• Low price;
• Durability of the mechanism;
• Ease of operation: setting up the device is easy to understand; for operation, the device does not need to be connected to an electrical outlet or powered by batteries/accumulators.

What equipment is needed to assemble an automatic irrigation system?

To assemble such systems, it is first necessary to determine the number of consumers (plants), draw up a plan for the placement of system components and calculate the approximate fluid consumption.

Next, you need to purchase the following equipment and materials:

• drip irrigation timer;
• drip irrigation tape;
• polypropylene pipes for supplying water to the belts;
• pipe clamps and clamps;
• plugs;
• valves and fittings;
• reduction and rotary knees;
• seals;
• connecting elements.

These materials can be purchased separately. However, if you are not an expert in this field, then it is better to purchase ready-made kits, in which the number of certain elements for irrigating a certain area is calculated in advance.

Electronic self-timer with manual control

It starts and stops the water supply independently - the user only needs to program the device by setting his own watering schedule and periodically adjust it if necessary. Flaws:

• The cost is slightly higher than mechanical ones;
• Inability to connect several devices at the same time (for example, connect an additional humidity sensor, which helps reduce water consumption);
• It is necessary to monitor the batteries and replace them promptly.

Advantages:

• Using such a timer, you can set up both automatic watering and water supply;
• Does not require electricity supply;
• Safe;
• There is an information board on the body;
• Simple and easy to use.

What should the controller do?

To decide whether you need a timer, you need to know exactly what tasks it can perform:

• the controller controls the entire system;
• starts and stops water;
• provides several watering lines simultaneously;
• monitors the operation of the motor;
• can turn on (or not turn on) independently, without a specified time program, determining the humidity level using a special sensor. For example, when it rains, the device will turn off watering.

Digital timer with intelligent control system

Digital timer with an intelligent control system (electronic irrigation timer with programmed control) is the most functional and modern model. You can even control it from your mobile phone or via the Internet. Disadvantages of this type:

• High price;
• Not everyone finds it easy to understand the basic functions and capabilities of the device. In order to set it up, you must first carefully study the instructions.

The main advantages include the following:

• Fully automated operation of the system;
• Operates on batteries or rechargeable batteries;
• There is no need for a person to be near the device;
• There is a screen;
• The device can be programmed for several different tasks at once and additional sensors can be connected to it.

What are the advantages of a water supply timer?

Most farmers and summer residents strive to reduce the time spent on watering and irrigating plants by introducing an automation system. To solve this problem, you can choose a highly efficient watering timer that can not only organize automatic watering in the greenhouse, eliminating the need to use buckets and hoses, but also provide the plants with the optimal amount of moisture and fertilizer to obtain the best harvest.

By using such systems, you can get the following advantages:

• efficient consumption of water resources;
• fully automated irrigation system using electronic timers with programmable control;
• control of soil moisture to protect the root system of plants from excess moisture;
• a wide range of options for customizing the irrigation program for specific types of plants;
• reliability of functional units.

Types of mechanisms in electronic timers

Mechanical timers for watering plants are still not so convenient, and therefore electronic devices are more popular. The water supply to them is regulated using a special mechanism. Therefore, electronic controllers can be divided into 2 categories:

Ball timer: This device has a special ball installed that automatically rotates to start the water supply. A large pressure of liquid flow is not required; from 0 to 6 atm is sufficient.

It is best to choose a ball controller when using a sprinkling and drip irrigation system, as well as in areas where it is not possible to connect to a centralized water supply.

Timer with an electromagnetic (solenoid) valve: there is a disk or piston on the core of the device that is responsible for regulating the flow. It is advisable to use controllers of this type if there is a central water pipeline, since in order to supply water and water the plants, it requires good water pressure.

Which to choose?

To choose the right timer, you need to know which system it will connect to and which areas to water. There are several criteria to consider.

Water supply mechanism:

1. If water is supplied from a water supply system, it is recommended to install a device with a solenoid valve. It can withstand high pressure and shuts off the pipe when the water is turned off, preventing the formation of air pockets.
2. In the case of a gravity system, when water is supplied from a barrel or other container, you can purchase a timer with a ball valve.

Fully mechanical timers are mostly not suitable for gravity irrigation systems, as they operate at a pressure of 0.5 atm.

Options:

1. The simplest timer is with the ability to set watering time for a day. Suitable for a small greenhouse or summer cottage.
2. Multi-program models with 4, 6, 8, 14, 16 and other number of programs are purchased for spacious greenhouses, greenhouses, and large areas.
   They usually provide additional functions. Such programmers use water more economically and create optimal conditions for growth.
3. Self-diagnosis functions and built-in memory may be provided that retains settings even during a long power outage.
4. Some devices have rain sensors (or they can be purchased and connected separately). They give a signal to turn off irrigation in case of precipitation.
5. There are models in which a mini-pump is connected and a filter is installed.
6. An additional plus is that the kit includes a quick-release fitting, which makes it easy to connect a hose or pipe for watering.

Number of valves:

• for small areas a 1-2 line timer is suitable;
• those who grow crops that require different watering regimes should take a closer look at multi-channel timers.

Other criteria:

1. Take into account whether the timer is powered by the mains or runs on batteries. The batteries need to be changed periodically, but they will help out if there is a sudden power outage.
2. Pay attention to the control panel. What is important here is the convenience of the location of the switches, the size of the monitor and the numbers displayed on it, and the presence of protection from moisture.
3. There are devices powered by a solar battery. They must be placed in a lighted area.

It is also worth paying attention to reviews from other users and the reputation of the brand. The company re-releases some models, improving and adding new features. Pay attention to the guarantee and the ability to return the timer in case of defects.

Installation recommendations

For proper installation, first carefully read the product data sheet, study in detail the photo of the assembled watering timer, if in any doubt, find and watch the video instructions or contact a specialist.

But, basically, setting a timer for watering plants is not difficult, but it is still worth taking into account a few small nuances:

Before installation, divide the irrigation area into separate blocks, taking into account the crops being grown - this way it will be easier to correctly distribute the watering time.

In order for the timer to serve the user for a long time, most manufacturers recommend installing a mud filter, which will trap particles (small stones, debris, sand, etc.) and they will not damage the mechanism.

When connecting the device to the system, it is necessary to observe the direction of water movement, which is determined using the arrows at the input and output of the controller, otherwise it will not work properly.

During installation, it is necessary to take into account that depending on the design of the irrigation system (single-channel or multi-channel), the timer connection diagrams may be different.

For example, when using a multi-channel system, it is necessary to additionally install a pump or, in some cases, even a pumping station to increase the pressure in the system.

TOP best

The approach to choosing timers depends on what tasks are set, how large an area needs to be watered, and what crops are grown on it. In general, any timer will help save water. It is important that it does not leak, lasts as long as possible, and consistently passes water when the pressure in the system fluctuates.

Mechanical

This rating includes timers, which are often purchased by summer residents for small areas. All models are manually adjustable and have a low price.

GARDENA 1169-20

The cost of the device varies between 1700-2300 rubles, depending on the season and the availability of discounts. The timer is connected to a water tap and operates at a pressure of 0.5-12 bar. It supplies water to sprinklers or drip lines, including the Micro-Drip-System from GARDENA.

The switching time is regulated by a rotary switch in the range of 5-120 minutes . It can also be set to constant flow. According to reviews, the timer is easy to use and reliable. A 19 mm (3/4") thread is provided for connecting the hose.

PALISAD Luxe 66197

It is designed to connect two lines at once, and is completely mechanical and does not require batteries. Watering can last up to 2 hours in 15 minute increments. After this, the water is automatically shut off. Each line is configured separately.

The kit includes a filter and an adapter with a ¾-inch internal thread , which allows you to connect to a pressure water supply. The cost of this device is about 900 rubles.

Grinda article 8-427805

The device is simple and inexpensive - it costs about 700 rubles. Reviews about it are quite friendly. The timer is often used in country greenhouses so as not to monitor watering and stop it in a timely manner. The kit includes an adapter that allows you to connect the device to a pipe or tap with an external thread of 3/4" (19 mm) or 1" (25 mm).

A mesh filter is installed to protect against small blockages . The maximum duration of watering is 2 hours, the minimum is 15 minutes. For the next start, manual winding is required.

DON GAZON 096-0202

Manufacturer – Russia. Another mechanical device at a price of 700-800 rubles. The handle adjusts the duration of watering, which traditionally ranges from 15 minutes to 2 hours. After this, the water is shut off, which eliminates the need to monitor soil moisture.

KARCHER WT 2

A timer from a well-known German brand with the ability to connect three hoses will cost approximately 1800-2000 rubles. The device is reliable and stable . Setting range from 5 minutes to 2 hours.

After the specified watering time, it turns off the water. Can work as a distributor. Supplied with three fittings, a faucet adapter and a filter. The company provides a 5-year warranty.

Electromechanical

These timers, although manually controlled, already have a convenient digital display. Their cost is higher than that of purely mechanical ones.

MPF article DS.070956

The price on Ozone for this model varies from 1200 to 1800 rubles. Ball valve shut-off mechanism. Powered by two AAA batteries, designed for pressure 0-6 atm . Made in a waterproof case.

The duration of watering (1 - 120 minutes) and frequency (1 hour - week) can be programmed. The instructions are quite clear, adjusting the knobs does not cause any problems.

Green Helper GA-319N

The ball valve timer runs on two 1.5 V mini-pen batteries and is controlled mechanically . Costs about 1500 rubles.

The device can withstand pressure from 0 to 6 atm. Can be used with a gravity system. The watering interval (1-72 hours or every other week) and duration (from 1 to 120 minutes) are separately set. Reviews about the device are mixed. Some people like it and are completely satisfied, but there are complaints about leaks.

Signor Tomato

Like most electronic-mechanical timers, this one is designed to operate from a barrel or water supply. Can be used in conjunction with a drip irrigation system . Its price is about 1700 rubles.

The control unit is powered by two AAA batteries. By rotating the settings knobs, you can select the optimal duration of watering and frequency (after how many hours the next one will start). The kit comes with clear instructions in Russian. The company itself is Russian and specializes in the production and supply of equipment for greenhouses.

KARCHER WT 4

The Karcher electronic-mechanical device is sold at a price of about 2700-3300 rubles. The kit includes a faucet adapter and a strainer. A 9V crown battery must be purchased separately.

The handles are large and comfortable, the display can be removed, and programming is easy to understand . The maximum duration of one watering is 120 minutes. The interval is set in hours and days, which is very convenient. The service life of the timer is at least 5 years. Read reviews here.

RACO 4275-55/736

The price of such a device is 1700-2300 rubles. You can set up to 8 waterings per day with a minimum duration of 1 minute. The timer has a stylish design and comfortable handles, the quality is German. Powered by a 9V battery that lasts for a season. The control unit can be easily removed.

Fully electronic

In such devices, control is carried out entirely using the display. Some of them can be programmed via the Internet.

ArmaControl 322

This electrical appliance will cost 1100-1900 rubles. It works from 0 bar to 6 bar, that is, even with gravity flow . Ball valve. An additional rubber gasket is installed to maintain pressure without leaking water.

The timer can be used to water beds, trees, shrubs, and fill containers. It is powered by 2 mini-AA batteries. The external thread of the fittings is 3/4″; an adapter is connected from below, thanks to which you can connect a flexible hose. Watering duration is adjustable from 1 minute to 12 hours. Read reviews here.

Green Helper GA-322 Sensor

The timer is sold at a price of 1500-1700 rubles. It provides 8 programs for flexible irrigation settings, including drip irrigation. Often used in greenhouses . Designed for a gravity system; it is not recommended to connect it to a water supply. Working pressure is 0-3 atm. Ball mechanism. Read reviews here.

KARCHER WT 5

The device is sold at a price of 3,700-4,500 rubles, depending on seasonal discounts. The timer can operate in automatic mode if you set the frequency and duration of watering. A 9V battery will have to be purchased separately. Faucet adapter included. The device can withstand a maximum pressure of 10 bar. Not suitable for gravity system. Read reviews here.

GARDENA Flex 1890-29

A well-known German brand offers to purchase an electronic watering timer for 3100-3400 rubles. The operating pressure of the device is 0.5-12 bar . Powered by a nine-volt battery. Watering frequency is from 4 to 72 hours. The duration is smoothly adjustable and reaches 99 minutes. Read reviews here.

DEKO DKIT01

A timer with a solenoid valve sells for 1500-2200 rubles. The automatic mode provides for the duration of each watering from 1-120 minutes, the interval is from 1 hour to a week. A translucent lid is provided to protect against splashes. Not suitable for installation on barrels (in gravity flow systems). Read reviews here.

For a large number of watering zones

This list includes both electronic and mechanical models. They cover a large area and are expensive.

GARDENA MultiControl duo 1874-29

This model received the Reddot Design Award in 2012 for its high quality and unique design . It costs about 11,000 rubles. You can water two areas of the garden at once, and for each output you can program three different cycles per day.

Watering duration is 1 minute - 4 hours. It is possible to connect rain and soil moisture sensors from the same company. A battery charge indicator is provided. Operating pressure range 0.5-12 bar.

Distributor GARDENA 1197-29

You can buy such a device for automatic watering for about 8,000 rubles. A maximum of 6 hoses or other equipment can be connected to it. A multi-mode water supply valve is installed . If some exits are not needed, they can be closed using a lever.

Operates at a pressure of 1-6 bar. ¾ inch male thread. The entire installation is convenient, compact, installed on the ground or screwed to the wall. Read reviews here.

GA-Combo ArmaControl

This model is equipped with a 4-line splitter. It costs a little - about 1700 - 2000 rubles. Ball valve mechanism, electronic control. It’s not difficult to understand programming; the kit comes with instructions in Russian. The device runs on AAA batteries. The lid is sealed and reliably protects the electronics from moisture.

Controller Green Helper GA-350-11

The device has 10 solenoid valves, which makes it possible to independently humidify up to 10 zones . You can make the most of the features or block some channels. The controller is used outdoors, in a greenhouse, greenhouse, greenhouse. The device is sold at a price of about 4,400 rubles.

AP 4013 AQUAPULSE

The device costs about 8,000 rubles. Designed for watering zones 1-4. Electronic programming for 6 days ahead and convenient switches. Trade jersey Taiwan. You can set up to 16 different cycles.

They are saved in the device memory. The duration of each watering can be 1-240 minutes.

Advantages of irrigation automation systems

A smart timer will become an indispensable assistant in the household:

• Watering the plants will continue at the set time in the required quantity even during the absence of the owner;
• Thanks to such a system, water consumption will become more rational;
• The use of digital devices makes it possible to fully automate the irrigation system;
• Reliability and ease of operation.

Preparation for use

The instructions for the device indicate the parameters of the water tap and connector used for connection.
As well as water characteristics (range of permissible temperature and pressure values).

Water with a temperature exceeding the specified upper limit (for example, 40 degrees) should not be used. Many devices are also suitable for irrigation by gravity (with minimal pressure).

Setting the timer should only be done at positive temperatures. Before the onset of frost, the device is dismantled and stored in a dry and warm room.

Most often, taps with 3/4” threads are used for connection . The nut will need to be unscrewed so that the connection to the faucet can move easily, and then firmly attached to the faucet. In this case, the timer must be positioned so as to provide a good view of the control panel and display. This is important for correct setup of the device.

Then the union nut is tightened tightly. The 1/2” hose connects to the connector. All operations must be performed manually, without using tools such as a wrench or pliers.

The transparent cover of the device protecting the front panel must always be closed during operation. This is necessary to prevent blockages that could cause malfunctions of the device.

Watering timer photo

How do you know when it's time to change the batteries?

The types of batteries that can be used with the device (for example, AAA 1.5v alkaline) are indicated in the instructions. Other batteries should not be used - this may damage the device. The operating time of the batteries depends on their capacity.

If the battery unexpectedly runs low, the valve remains in the state it was in at that moment (open or closed). This must be kept in mind to prevent overwatering of plants. If you notice that the battery is low, you need to replace it.

When replacing batteries in a timely manner, installed programs and date and time data are usually not reset. If the device is not going to be used for more than a week, the batteries must be removed.

Reviews of the model Gardena 01169

If you need a simple, but modern and reliable timer, then modification 01169 from Gardena may be a good solution. Experienced summer residents use it to carry out regular watering activities, using basic control tools. However, there are complaints about the limited duration of water supply - the range is set at 5-120 minutes. But this nuance is compensated by the accuracy of the mechanics. Reliability and reliability are the main advantages for which this watering timer is valued. Reviews, for example, indicate the use of a protective filter, which is rarely provided in entry-level models.

The operating principle of gravity irrigation systems

All automatic gravity-flow irrigation systems operate on the same principle and in accordance with the laws of hydrodynamics. This principle is that when there is a difference in height, increased pressure is created in the pipeline, as a result of which water from a reservoir located above the water supply level begins to flow into the system and further to the final device - the consumer.

As a result of such water flow, moisture can be delivered to the irrigation site without human intervention. At the same time, the system does not have any pumps or other devices for pumping water into the system. In order for water to begin to move in the pipeline on its own, a pressure not exceeding 0.5 atmospheres is required.

In order to create such pressure, you can use an ordinary metal container installed at a height of 5 m above the lowest point of the pipeline system. It is quite possible to install such a structure on your own, which makes gravity irrigation systems very popular in summer cottages and rural areas.

The gravity watering timer is used here to adjust the watering time. At the same time, they can coordinate the operation of the entire watering system so that the plants will be watered at any time of the day, regardless of weather conditions and the presence of people on the site. To do this, simply turn on the pipeline tap, pour water into it, and set the watering interval on the timer.

Reviews of the WT 5 Karcher model

If the previous timer can be positioned as a premium device at the entry level, then this device will most likely occupy a lower position in the segment of high-tech models. This is an inexpensive device with wide functionality - this timer can be considered as a control panel, but with some limitations. As for users, they note a wide range of settings and support for four operating modes. But, like the previous timer for the irrigation system, the proposal from Karcher offers a modest period of time for watering within a single session - 120 minutes. This is the case when functionality is expanded at the expense of performance, but such options are also in demand.

Device characteristics

In size, timers for supplying water for irrigation rarely exceed standard standard meters. Although modern electronic modifications with extensive functionality and large displays superficially resemble controller control panels. The main task of the timer is to regulate the supply of water over time, but, as a kind of barrier element, they are primarily characterized by throughput. On average it is 5-35 l/hour. As for the maintained pressure, this value varies from 0.2 to 12 bar on average. It is important not to forget that the battery-powered watering timer has a limited duration. Moreover, watering rates are calculated based on operating sessions. The time range for one-time watering is about 180-230 minutes. To this indicator it is worth adding the number of daily approaches to feeding. It is also limited - standard models allow installation for 3-5 sessions.