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The time has finally come to water your lawn and garden! No matter how well you think you are at gardening, there is always something that can be improved. That’s why I’ve put together a collection of the best water hose timers available. These timers will help you water your lawn and garden more efficiently… and get the best results from your efforts!
When it comes to watering your lawn or garden, timing is everything. The right time and amount of water applied at the right time help ensure maximum growth and lush, healthy grass. Watering too soon before your grass has had a chance to dry out will result in wilting and death of the grass. And watering it too late after it has already dried out will cause your grass to go dormant and turn brown. Therefore, it is vital you know how to use a water hose timer to ensure you water your lawn or garden at the most ideal times.
I must admit, I’ve never used a water hose timer before. But, after using one for just a short while, I can see the obvious benefits. For example, let’s say you have a large yard and you water it every day. Using a water hose timer could easily save you 50% or more on your water bill. That means instead of paying $200 per month to have your yard watered, you could be spending only $100 per month… and getting nearly equal results.
In this article, we’re going to discuss the various types of water hose timers available and give you several ideas on how you can use one (or more) of them to improve the appeal of your home.
Best water hose timers
| Image | Product | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Orbit 62034 Mechanical Watering Hose Timer | 9.7 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Orbit 58910 Programmable Hose Faucet Timer, 2 Outlet | 9.5 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Melnor 65038-AMZ HydroLogic 4-Zone Digital Water Timer | 9.1 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Bosch Garden and Watering 9301GT Mechanical Water Timer | 8.8 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Yardeen Hose Water Timer | 8.6 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | RAINPOINT Sprinkler Timer, Programmable with 2 Outlets | 8.2 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | RAINPOINT Sprinkler Digital Water Timer for Garden Hose | 8 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | IRRIGOLD WiFi Water Timer,Works with Alexa and Google Assistant | 7.7 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | RESTMO Sprinkler Timer, Programmable Water Timer for Garden Hose | 7.4 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Raindrip R675CT Analog 3-Dial Water Timer, 1, Multi | 7.2 | Check Price on Amazon |
Last update on 17th March 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our recommended water hose timers:
Orbit 62034 Mechanical Watering Hose Timer
- EASIEST TIMER TO USE: Works just like an egg timer! Set the perfect time for your watering needs, anywhere from 15 to 120 minutes
- CONSERVE WATER: Never forget to turn your water off again. This timer will shut the water off for you
- OVERSIZED DIAL: Easy-to-set dial with a comfort grip makes setting the timer simple even with gloved or wet hands
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Quality materials to ensure it will last season after season without the worry of rust or corrosion
- EASY ATTACHMENT: Ergonomic swivel installs quickly and easily to your faucet
- MANUAL WATER OVERRIDE: Quick and easy access to water without having to remove the timer
- PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS: No batteries required
- Timed watering up to 120 minutes
- Durable high impact construction
- Oversized dial with comfort grip for easy use
- No batteries required
- Saves water in drought conditions
Last update on 17th March 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Are you looking for a simple solution that will help you save water and money at the same time? This option from Orbit is a budget-friendly option when it comes to timers, ideal for anyone afraid they might forget to turn off the water after watering. This model can be used both in manual model and timed, allowing you to set the timer between 15 and 120 minutes of watering.
This is among the simplest option you will find on the market and the mechanical operation of this timer needs no batteries. You simply have to install it on an outdoor faucet and you are good to go. This is a great addition to any garden hose, works as intended and you simply have to turn the timer, so simple.
They can be found at a budget-friendly price, so investing in a few of these mechanical timers from Orbit will help you set up a great watering system for your garden without spending a fortune. The fact that they are mechanical timers running without power means they are less prone to failure and will last for a long time. I would suggest having a look at this option if you are starting out and need a timer that won’t break the bank.
Orbit 58910 Programmable Hose Faucet Timer, 2 Outlet
- Watering frequency from every 6 hrs up to every 7th day
- Watering duration from 1 to 240 minutes
- Rain delay option of 24, 48, or 72 hours
- Manual watering without interrupting programing
- Install quickly with swivel connection; durable, weather resistant construction
Last update on 17th March 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You can pick a watering frequency between every 6 hours and once per week, while the duration can be set from 1 to 240 minutes. It will help you over or under watering the garden, but you could also set it to manual when needed without interrupting your schedule. It also has a built-in rain delay feature that is a great function that should not be omitted from any timer. It will pause your scheduled watering for up to 72 hours in case of rainfall, thus preventing over-watering your plants.
Overall, for its price, I consider this a great product for any gardener looking to automate the watering process. It can be found at a great price and it’s available with 1, 2, or 3 outlets to pick the best for your needs. If you are looking for a reliable and easy-to-use option, I would highly suggest you have a closer look at this one while researching.
Melnor 65038-AMZ HydroLogic 4-Zone Digital Water Timer
- 4 high flow valves to water Multiple areas.
- Each valve works like a separate timer with up to 4 selectable start times.
- Easily select specific days of the week or every few days.
- Bundle includes 1 HydroLogic 4-Zone Digital Water Timer and 5 Extra Stainless Steel Filter Washers
- Requires 2 x AA batteries (not included)
- Backed by a Melnor 7-Year Limited Warranty. Melnor stands behind its products.
- Power Source Type: Battery Powered
Last update on 17th March 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Melnor is another manufacturer that is well known for its high-quality products that can be found at budget-friendly prices. This particular model has 4 outlets that will allow you to set up 4 zones for watering without breaking the bank. If you are looking for the best buck for your buck model, this is probably your best bet at the moment. It is rated for max PSI 80 and has easy-to-read dials and indicators.
If you have a large garden this is an ideal option that will allow you to keep your yard healthy and avoid over and under watering with minimal investment. You can attach oscillating sprinklers and cover a very wide area, dividing your garden is up to 4 zones. Each valve has a dedicated timer so you can program multiple areas with different settings.
It runs on AA batteries and it’s backed by a long-lasting warranty from the manufacturer. If you take into consideration its relatively low price and the long-lasting warranty, I would consider this a great option for anyone interested in up to 4 zones of watering. Definitely worth checking out if you want a digital timer for your yard.
What is a Garden Hose Timer?
A garden hose timer is a device that attaches to your water faucet and regulates the flow of water from your hose. They come in a variety of types and styles. Some are battery-operated while others plug into your household electrical outlet for power.
Regardless of the type, all garden hose timers work on a simple principle – they cut off water to your hose after a predetermined amount of time. By doing so, they allow your lawn or garden sufficient hydration without wasting water or money.
How Do Water Hose Timers Work?
The great thing about a water hose timer is that they are extremely easy to use. You simply attach it to your faucet, turn on the water and choose how long you want the water to flow from your hose for each scheduling cycle.
Most timers have several pre-programmed times of day during which watering can take place – morning, afternoon, night, and/or weekends. From there, you simply pick a time that works best for your schedule and water access. They then turn off your hose for the remainder of the day so you can focus on other tasks without worrying about overwatering or wasting water.
Depending on the type of timer you have, you may also be able to adjust the time allowed for each watering session. You may also be able to water different areas of your yard at once with different timers (for example, one-timer can control all of your front yards, while another controls your back yard).
Benefits of Using a Garden Water Timer
- A good garden hose timer will help save you money by minimizing the amount of time your water is on.
- A timer helps conserve water, which is important given how scarce it can be during times of drought. Without one, there is a good chance you will be wasting water as your hose runs even when you are not using it.
- It helps your grass last longer and makes it healthier. A timer allows you to water for just the right amount of time – not too soon and not too late. This gives your lawn an ideal opportunity to drink up the water which will help it grow strong.
- In addition, it will also keep your garden from having any algae growth as well as minimizing weed growth.
- A water hose timer will make your life a lot easier by enabling you to set it and forget it. It will ensure your lawn is always looking great, even if you are away from home on business or vacation.
- Different ecosystems have different water needs. Some plants need more water than others while some may need less or none at all depending on their soil type and sun exposure. A timer will ensure that the amount of water your plants receive is not excessive by setting zones for each area of your yard.
Things to consider when looking for the best water hose timers:
Mechanical vs. Automatic – Analog or Digital?
There are two basic types of water hose timers – analog and digital. Analog hose timers are powered by a spring that unwinds as time passes. The more it unwinds, the more water your hose receives. This type of hose timer typically has three watering settings (e.g., early morning, after work, and late evening) with a dial that you turn to the desired time.
The mechanical water timer is not battery-powered. Simply attach to the hose, move a knob to adjust how long you want the water to run, and you are good to go. It will start the water right away and switch it off when the timer expires.
On the other hand, digital timers have a digital display that shows the amount of time left before you need to turn it off. These are great for automatically shutting off a hose at a specific time and can be adjusted as needed.
This is great for anyone who needs to water their plants while on vacation or even business trip. Once you turn it on at home, you can go about your usual day-to-day activities without having to worry whether or not your plants will get watered.
It is important to note that digital hose timers are much more expensive than a mechanical model, which may be a significant investment for some homeowners.
If you need extra features such as multiple watering schedules or want to use the timer in multiple areas of your yard at once, it might be worth getting an advanced digital model.
Power Source – Electric vs. Solar
Another important factor to consider is how the timer will be powered. The majority of hose timers are battery-powered, with AA being the most common type used.
One drawback of battery-powered timers is that you need to make sure you have spare AA batteries on hand for when the power runs out. However, it is easy to replace batteries in a battery-powered hose timer without any special knowledge or tools.
Some models have a solar-powered option in which case the timer will only need sunlight to function. This is great for anyone who does not want to deal with changing batteries often, although they may require more sun exposure than others.
Keep in mind that models that utilize Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity will require more power, which may result in frequent battery changes or even decreased performance.
For most use cases, a basic battery-powered model will do, but it is best to check what type of battery your preferred dial requires before you make the purchase. Solar-powered models are a great investment for anyone who wants to save some money on battery costs while still getting the same features with an upfront cost.
Construction
You should be looking for models that are made of durable, and water-resistant materials. The best hose timer should be able to withstand high temperatures, harsh sunlight, and even some rain or snow. Each model comes with an IP rating that represents how well it will hold up to the elements.
The last thing you want is a hose timer that malfunctions after its first or second week of use. This is especially true for digital units since they are more sensitive to water and impact damage.
When it comes to construction, most hose timers consist of either aluminum or plastic housings with IP ratings that range from IPX4 (sheltered locations) up to IP66 (corrosion-resistant). It is important for you to check what type of weather your preferred hose timer can handle.
Even if you want a basic mechanical dial with no special features, it is still important to find one that is made of high-quality material. This ensures the unit will last for years without any issues.
Level of programmability
An important feature to look for is the amount of programmability. DIYers will be glad to know there are multiple options in terms of frequency and duration for each watering cycle. A programmable hose timer will allow you to customize the frequency between weekly and monthly, while others let you select a custom start time for when your yard needs it most.
Having an option that lets you set several watering times throughout the week is important because it minimizes unnecessary water waste. Keep in mind though, the number of programmable schedules will vary from one product to another. This can be challenging for someone who wants a simple timer that still has multiple settings without having to spend more on a model with a wide variety of advanced features.
A dial hose timer that comes with an option to set up odd/even watering days is a great feature for anyone who wants more customization. The system allows you to have two separate water schedules depending on which day of the week it is. For example, you can choose one scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays while switching to another for Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
If you want to maximize the efficiency of your watering system, then investing in a model that allows Schedule Programming is an excellent way to do it. This feature will allow you to set up a list of multiple programs with a different start date and time for each one. A model that can hold several timers is an important investment for anyone who wants maximum flexibility in the way they use their hose timer.
Even the simplest water hose timers will allow you to choose the desired Interval Setting. This is when you select how much time will pass between each watering cycle. The system lets you choose the interval length in terms of either minutes or hours, depending on what your preferred dial indicates. Some models will even allow you to select the exact day (or days) for when it should run.
Multi-Zone Programming is probably the most advanced feature you can find on a hose timer. This allows you to link multiple hose timers together in order to set up a common watering schedule. You can control all of the units from the same interface, which is a great way to save time and money on things like lawn maintenance. You can create zones based on the time of day, type of plant, or any other important factor you think is necessary.
Last but not least Multilingual Programming is another important thing to keep in mind because it allows you to operate the dial, even if English isn’t your first language. Some manufacturers have units with programming options written in several languages so they are easier to understand.
Smart Technology
The latest high-tech models offer more than your basic watering schedules. There are several brands that implement Smart Technology in their dial hose timers. These smart features include everything from smartphone connectivity to rainfall sensors and weather forecasting systems.
Some models even allow you to customize all settings via a smartphone or tablet app. This is an excellent way to stay connected to your yard even when you are away from home. The app can serve as a customizable interface since it lets you set the exact schedule and intervals for each watering session.
An option like this is an excellent upgrade for anyone tired of wasting water or paying higher bills because they don’t know when to turn off the hose in time. Since these systems are designed to save water by adjusting your watering schedule, they can help keep your plants healthy while saving you money in the long term.
The Rain Delay Feature is an important feature that helps you avoid overwatering because it automatically pauses the schedule whenever there is rainfall detected in your area. On mechanical timers, a rain delay function will allow you to skip watering for a certain number of days, depending on how many times the system has detected rainfall.
Smart hose timers do this job better by scanning local weather forecasts and their own internal calendars. They will automatically pause the system if there is a scheduled watering session and resume it when the weather condition shifts. This smart watering technology will prevent you from wasting water while keeping your plants healthy.
Water Source – Number of Hose Outlets
You should also look at the number of hose outlets a particular dial offers before making a purchase. Some brands only have one main outlet, which means you can only use the system with a single garden hose or sprinkler line.
If you want to be able to water more than one part of your lawn, make sure your dial comes with several hose outlets. You can easily attach a secondary hose to the system and program it separately from the first one, allowing you to water different areas in your yard at different times.
Just keep in mind that multiple hose outlets have a major drawback. The more valves you add, the harder it is to control each one individually. This can raise your water bill because you’ll lose a lot of water if the lines don’t have proper pressure from start to finish. This is where models with multiple multiple zones come in handy since you can control each hose independently of the others.
Number of Watering Zones
Several hose timers only have one watering zone, which means you can’t link more than one system to the same interface. This will be a problem for customers with huge yards because they need maximum flexibility in setting up their own schedules.
Even if your property is relatively small, you might want to consider investing in a model that allows for multiple zones. A system like that will allow you separate watering zones for each part of the yard. This way, you can set different times or intervals for each section so they don’t all get watered at once.
If you have a larger garden, with many plants spread across multiple areas, this is an excellent feature to invest in. It can help avoid overwatering and help you get the best results for your grass, plants, flowers, or any other type of landscaping.
Multiple watering zones are also an excellent choice if you want to get multiple timer dials all linked in a single interface. You can buy more than one dial and use them side by side in order to set up a schedule that is right for your plants.
LCD Screen and Controls
The larger the LCD screen is, the easier it will be to read at a glance. This is especially important for those who plan on using the irrigation timer outside where sunlight and glare could make reading small displays difficult.
Some dials come with large, clearly marked buttons that are easy to use even in the dark. When buying a model like this, keep in mind that most controls are designed for turning systems on and off or setting the timer. They aren’t very intuitive when it comes to adjusting watering zones or splitting up your watering schedule between days of the week.
Some manufacturers use complex button combinations that require precise timing in order to work properly. On others, you can easily override settings by using a single button or rotating the dial for manual override.
This is an often overlooked feature that is absolutely necessary for any advanced timer system. If your model doesn’t come with a rain delay feature, that’s fine. However, you should know how to manually postpone a watering cycle in case of inclement weather. On devices with mechanical timers, you can simply set the dial to skip watering for a couple of days until conditions change and the system is safe again.
Brands
Choosing a model from a reputable brand is always your best bet.
There are many reliable manufacturers that have been making quality products for years, including Rain Bird, Orbit, Melnor, and Nelson. Each of these brands has earned a positive reputation among landscapers and irrigation professionals.
They also come with an excellent return policy in case you find yourself unsatisfied after purchasing one of their products. It is always better to go with a name you know and trust over an unknown brand because they are the most likely to offer excellent customer support in case you ever need it.
Warranty
All hose timers have a warranty that covers damage or defects. However, some brands offer different lengths of protection depending on which model you buy.
If you want to make sure your device is covered for as long as possible, consider investing in models with an extended warranty. These are often the most expensive products but could save you hundreds of dollars if something goes wrong.
The models with the best warranty coverage are those that come with a lifetime guarantee because they cover all types of damage, no matter what caused it or when it occurred.
Consider buying a unit that comes with a separate warranty for the internal parts of the device. This will ensure that broken dials, faulty motors, corroded batteries, and any other malfunctions are covered even if the system has been submerged in water or damaged by power surges from bad weather.
You should always read through each product’s warranty policy to understand what types of damage are covered and which parts aren’t. This will give you a better understanding of how much protection you receive when making an investment in one of these systems.
Price
Hose timers are a bit more expensive than other types of irrigation products, but they aren’t nearly as pricey as something like an in-ground sprinkler system.
In most cases, you can expect to pay at least $30 for a decent model from a reputable brand. You will probably need to spend at least twice that amount if you want to buy a premium device that has all of the bells and whistles.
Unless you are seriously strapped for cash, it is always better to invest in quality equipment than something cheap that will break down after a few months. This also ensures you don’t have to make repairs or spend money on new parts every couple of years.
Check out the list of our recommended models as it’s a great starting point for your research.
FAQ
Do Water Hose Timers Require Maintenance?
There are a few things you can do to ensure your hose timer lasts for years without needing costly repairs or frequent replacements. The most important thing to remember is to keep the components separate from moisture at all times. This prevents corrosion and malfunctions that can be difficult to diagnose when they first occur.
You should also make sure you replace any batteries in your timer as soon as they start showing signs of wearing out. This means the internal dial might not be counting down correctly, or it might not shut off when you need to stop watering for the day.
Are All Water Hose Timers Waterproof?
But the sad truth is that not all of them are waterproof. There are plenty of models that are designed to withstand submersion or bad weather, and these are the ones that are worth investing in.
The best water hose timers are the ones that have the most durable construction and reliable internal components, so you can use them for years without worrying about breakage or damage. Look for a model with a durable plastic casing, as well as a design that prevents the batteries from leaking inside of the device via condensation.
How Long Does a Water Hose Timer Last?
If you are using your irrigation system to water your lawn, keep in mind that these timers tend to be more susceptible to problems when they are overused on a daily basis. If you have the ability to control your flow rate and use it only on days where you need it, then this will help prolong the life of your system for as long as possible.
What are the different battery types available, and how long do they last?
The AA batteries typically last about 10 months in hose timers, so it is a good idea to always have a few spares on hand. You can use an alkaline battery or rechargeable batteries in your device, so long as they are correctly sized to fit inside of your timer. While it is true that these are pricier upfront, you will end up saving money on replacement costs once you factor in how long each set lasts (roughly six months).
Moreover, there are also smaller hose timers for garden hoses that use button cells instead of standard batteries. These small cell batteries have a battery life of 6 months to a year depending on how often you use them.
Is It Difficult To Program Water Hose Timers?
The average water hose timer comes with a keypad for programming the device. This allows you to set an on/off time as well as a water flow rate before you hit the start button and begin to water your lawn.
For models that shut off automatically, the keypad display will show you how much time is left in your session. If it is a device with multiple watering sessions per day, then each one will be listed on the screen as well.
If you prefer to use a tablet or smartphone to control your system, then it is also possible! You just have to find hose timers that use Bluetooth or WI-Fi connectivity to send information to your device once you install the proper app.
