How to program typical sprinkler timer control

How to program typical sprinkler timer control

            Most of us have sprinkler system installed in our front and backyard. But usuallywe leave setting the timer to our gardner or hubby. But it is so simple (After knowing) anyone can set it. I am going to explain it in very simple manner. Don’t forget to refer to the manual that was included with your sprinkler system controller.
Basics:
Program – Most timers have three programs available, and they are typically named program A, program B and program C. These programs hold the actual settings that control when and how long each station is watered. You might set program A, for instance, to water only the flowerbed areas and have them watered twice a day. Program B might be used to water only the lawn areas two or three days a week. Program C could be used to water plants or shrubs with a drip system, if you have one, a couple of times per week.

Typical Timer/Controller Features

Start Time – The start time feature on a sprinkler system controller allows you to specify a time of day for a Program (A, B, or C) to start. Once it starts, it will begin irrigating the stations or zones that are associated with it. Once it works its way through all the stations or zones that are associated with the Program, the controller stops watering.

Run Time – This is sometimes called “Station Duration.” It is the time, in minutes, that a valve will remain opened. If you set a run time for fifteen minutes, then, the valve that it controls will remain open and water a zone for that length of time.
Run – When “run” is enabled, your scheduled programs will run as planned. As long as you have everything programmed to your liking, then, you’re usually going to want to have “run” enabled.
Off/Stop – If you need to prevent your programs from running, you’re going to want to toggle over to “off” or “stop.” There are many different reasons that you might want to do this; for instance, you may want to stop programs while you are programming your sprinkler system timer. Many people keep their systems on “off” during the winter months, too.
Semi-Auto – From time to time, a zone may require a supplemental watering. In that case, the semi-auto function is very convenient. This function allows you to run a specific program – A, B or C – whenever you want. For example, if your area has been having unusually dry or hot weather, you may want to use supplemental watering to keep everything healthy.

Manual – This button lets you run a specific valve for whatever length of time you want. Also, on controllers that do not have a Semi-Auto button, this is used to manually turn on a zone or run a program (depending on the model controller) to water an area of the property if it looks a little dry. It is used to temporarily water the property at will without reprogramming the controller. It can also be used to spot-check an irrigation system while performing repairs or during a Spring Check Up (looking for broken heads, misaligned heads, or other problems) of the sprinkler system.
Entering a Program
Now that you have the right day and time configured, it’s time to enter a program.
1. Select the Program (A, B, or C) you want to program. For each program, you will need to set up the Water Schedule or “Days to Water”, Start Time, and Station Run Times.
2. Select the “schedule” function (Days to Water). Use it to select the specific days that you want the irrigation to run. An Example would be Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. In some cases, you’ll need to specify the number of days between watering.
3. Select “start time” and specify the time that you’d like the irrigation to begin. An example would be 5:45 am. If you have newly planted flowers, you may want to water a second time in the same day since the root zone may get dry by late afternoon. If you want to schedule a second start time at say 4:00 pm. Just remember that the second start time is for the Program you are setting up so all the zones you are watering on this Program will be watered a second time.
4. Select the “run time” or related function. Select the station of your choice and enter the run time for that valve. Continue selecting stations and entering run times until you have entered a run time for all the stations you will be watering on this Program.
5. Program setup is complete once you have entered in the Water Schedule or “Days to Water”, Start Time, and Station Run Times.
6. To set up additional programs select a Program (A, B, or C) other than the one you just set up using the steps above. Repeat the steps listed above for each Program you want to run. You will want to set the Station Run Times to zero for the stations you already have running on another Program (A,B, or C). Only add Station Run Times for the stations you want to water using the Program you are setting up.
Please note that different sprinkler system timers have different controls and features. Some use dials, while others are 100% digital. Make sure to read through the specific