Looking for a hassle-free way to water your plants? Look no further than automatic hose timers, which can be programmed to take care of this task for you. With the ability to set watering schedules, you can even enjoy worry-free watering while on vacation, according to gardener and Finch + Folly Farm founder, Allison Vallin Kostovick. To help you choose the best automatic hose timer for your needs, we’ve evaluated models based on their programmability, water pressure requirements, ease of use, and additional features. Below, you’ll find our top picks for automatic hose timers that are sure to enhance your gardening experience.
Raindrip 3-Dial Analogue Water Timer
The RainDrip water timer is an excellent tool for homeowners who want to water their landscapes effectively and economically by scheduling watering times. This timer can be attached to any outdoor faucet, standard drip tubing, or garden hose with the help of an adaptor kit. Once clipped onto the valve of your choice, the unit measures water flow through the solenoid and diaphragm valves for on/off control. The solenoid on/off control automatically turns off when the required PSI is reached or after the programmed duration. Additionally, this timer features an automatic shut-off function that turns it off when the battery runs low. Best of all, installation is a breeze – no tools are required! Simply place the unit’s body above your faucet, attach standard drip tubing to the hook-up spout, and insert two AA alkaline batteries into the unit.
PROS:
- Includes a low battery indicator
- Retains watering schedule when batteries are replaced
- Compatible with standard drip tubing and spigots
CONS:
- Operates on alkaline batteries that are not included
- Components may not be of the highest quality
Kazeila Sprinkler Timer, Hose Timer
The Kazeila automatic hose timer is the perfect solution for those who want complete control over their lawn-watering process. It offers unparalleled flexibility, with a watering duration range of one second to 99 minutes and a watering frequency range of once an hour to once every 15 days. This battery-powered hose timer can handle a wide range of irrigation needs.
To prevent overwatering, this timer includes a convenient rain-delay function that allows you to skip a watering cycle if necessary. It also has a manual override and a child safety lock to prevent unintended triggers from interfering with the timer. This hose timer has simple electronic needs, running on just two AA batteries. The LCD screen powers down after 30 seconds of inactivity to save battery life, and a low-battery warning on the display lets you know when it’s time to change batteries. It’s been tested to withstand up to 140 psi and can be used with both ¾-inch and ½-inch hose faucets.
Product Specs:
- Type: Automatic
- Power Source: 2 x AA batteries
- Additional Features: Irrigation programs, rain sensor, duration, frequency, child lock
PROS:
- Offers up to 99 minutes of use
- Features an LCD screen
- Boasts a versatile watering frequency
- Compatible with both ¾-inch and ½-inch hose faucets
CONS:
- Batteries not included
Orbit 62061Z Single-Outlet Hose Watering Timer
The Orbit 62061Z water hose timer is a highly acclaimed product in the market. It can be installed between your outdoor faucet and garden hose. The front dial makes it easy to select start times, adjust watering frequency, and set up the clock.
The timer comes with several advantages, including rain sensors, adjustable watering intervals, a runtime of up to 4 hours, weatherproof construction, and a manual watering feature. Additionally, it is easy to install, making it an ideal choice for homeowners looking for a hassle-free watering solution.
On the downside, the timer has a relatively short lifespan compared to other models in the market.
Pros:
- Equipped with rain sensors
- Allows for adjustable watering intervals
- Offers a runtime of up to 4 hours
- Weatherproof construction
- Features a manual watering function
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Short lifespan compared to other models
Melnor 65036-AAZ AquaTimer
If you have a large lawn and limited time to water it, this four-valve timer is the best hose timer for you. It comes with four outlet valves, making zonal watering a breeze. The timer operates on two AA batteries and allows for a runtime of one minute to six hours, with the option to adjust the watering frequency on an hourly or weekly basis. Additionally, you can delay the scheduling for up to a week to avoid overwatering.
The timer’s seven-day rain delays are a significant advantage, ensuring that you don’t water your lawn during a storm. However, it lacks any connectivity features, which might not be suitable for tech-savvy users.
Pros:
- Seven-day rain delays
- Four outlets for zonal watering
- Customizable runtime and watering frequency
- Allows for scheduling delay
Cons:
- Lacks connectivity features
CROSOFMI Sprinkler Timer Digital Water Timer
The CROSOFMI Sprinkler Timer Digital Water Timer provides versatile functionality for garden, farm irrigation, or even swimming pools. This timer is constructed with reinforced IP65 waterproof nylon, making it more durable than ABS plastic and resistant to impact and wear. Its pneumatic sealed components have been tested to withstand 10kg of water pressure and prevent leaks.
The timer’s 360° rotatable connector joint makes it easy to attach to any faucet or water hose, even if it is leaning against the wall. Its simple control panel features large buttons and a 3-inch HD screen that displays data at a glance. You can adjust the watering duration from 1-59 seconds or 1-300 minutes and set the frequency from 1-23 hours or 1-15 days. To save water, you can activate the rain delay button, or stop the timer without deleting your existing program using the manual off button.
The timer also includes several smart features such as auto-sleep mode, child lock mode, and a battery power indicator. It operates on two AA batteries, which can last up to 6 months. CROSOFMI offers a six-year limited warranty on the water timer.
Pros:
- Durable reinforced nylon construction
- Waterproof rating of IP65
- Versatile functionality for various irrigation needs
- Compatible with low and high-pressure systems
- Simple control panel with large buttons and a 3-inch HD screen
- Watering duration of 1-59 seconds or 1-300 minutes
- Watering frequency from 1-23 hours or 1-15 days
- Water-saving rain delay mode
- Manual off button
- Auto-sleep mode and child lock mode
- Battery power indicator
- Two AA batteries can last up to 6 months
- Six-year limited warranty
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Rubber ring on the connector may leak if not attached properly
- Programming may be complex for some users
Buying Guide
One of the benefits of using a hose timer is that it helps conserve water by automatically shutting off at pre-set times. This prevents accidental overwatering, which can lead to high water bills and is wasteful, especially in drought-prone areas. Overwatering can also harm plants and lawns, causing root rot and preventing new seeds from taking root.
Another advantage of using a hose timer is the ability to water plants when you’re away from home, such as during vacations or workdays. This ensures your plants receive the necessary moisture and nutrients to thrive.
Using a hose timer also saves time and effort, especially for large gardens, by automating the watering process. Additionally, it can deter intruders by giving the impression that someone is at home.
When choosing a hose timer, reliability should be a top priority. Look for genuine user reviews or recommendations from friends and family. Hose timers can be digital or mechanical, with digital ones offering more features but requiring batteries or electricity. Consider the timer’s setting capabilities and any extra features you may need, such as large displays or matching garden decor.
FAQs
Q. Does a water timer work with individual sprinklers or only with a sprinkler system?
A. A water timer can connect to a garden hose, so it works well with individual sprinklers that you can move around your yard. However, a timer is also compatible with sprinkler systems and can be installed at the same time the system is set up.
Q. What features are most important to make sure the yard is watered properly?
A. To avoid overwatering your yard, it’s best to choose a model with some type of rain or moisture sensor. This allows the timer to override the schedule if the lawn has already received enough water.
You can keep your yard from getting too little water by choosing a timer with some type of battery backup that maintains the schedule even if there is a power failure with the timer.
Q. Does a water timer require professional installation?
A. Most water timers are very easy to set up, so they’re an ideal DIY project. However, if you want to have your water timer hardwired rather than connected to an outlet or batteries, you’ll need a professional electrician or irrigation specialist to handle the job.
David Henry
Hello, everyone! I'm David Henry, a dedicated customer and enthusiastic reviewer of Tractor Supply Company. As a farmer and agriculture enthusiast, I frequently visit Tractor Supply Company to explore and purchase a wide range of agricultural supplies, tools, and equipment. Over the years, I have accumulated extensive experience and knowledge in shopping at Tractor Supply Company, and I aim to help others make wiser choices through my sharing. I understand the importance of selecting the right products for farmers, ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. That's why I enjoy sharing my insights and recommendations to assist individuals in finding the best-suited products for their needs. Join me as we embark on a journey of discovering quality products and making informed decisions at Tractor Supply Company. Together, let's enhance our farming and outdoor experiences through valuable insights and practical advice.
