Eshico HCT-M09 4-Outlet Water Timer User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Eshico HCT-M09 4-Outlet Water Timer. This automatic irrigation system is designed to simplify your garden watering, offering smart timing and independent control for up to four different watering zones. Please read this manual carefully to ensure proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your water timer.

2. Safety Information

• Use only with clean, fresh water. Do not use with dirty water or chemicals.
• Ensure the working pressure is within the specified range of 0.05-0.8 MPa.
• Operate within the working temperature range of 3-45℃. Protect from freezing temperatures.
• Do not immerse the timer in water. The unit is IPX5 rated for water resistance against jets, but not submersion.
• Always remove batteries when the timer is not in use for extended periods or during winter months.
• Keep out of reach of children.

3. Package Contents

Please check the package to ensure all items are present:

• Eshico HCT-M09 4-Outlet Water Timer
• O-ring (pre-installed or separate)
• Depending on the connector type purchased:
  • 1/2" Adapter (for BS Connector variant)
  • Quick Connector (for BS Connector variant)

Note: 2 x 1.5V 'AA' Alkaline Batteries are NOT included and must be purchased separately.

4. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the components and controls of your HCT-M09 water timer:

Figure 1: Front view of the HCT-M09 Water Timer

4.1. Display and Controls

• LCD Display: Shows current time, watering status, battery level, and programming details.
• Rotary Dial: Used to select different programming modes: ON, OFF, SET CLOCK, START TIME, HOW LONG, HOW OFTEN.
• '+' / '-' Buttons: Adjust values (time, duration, frequency).
• 'A/B/C/D' Button: Selects the watering zone for programming.
• 'DELAY' Button: Activates the rain delay function.
• 'OK' / '⏵' Button: Confirms settings or initiates manual watering.

4.2. Functional Features

Figure 2: Detailed functional features

• Stainless Steel Filter: Located at the water inlet, it prevents debris from entering the timer, ensuring longevity and clean water flow. It can be rotated 360 degrees for easy installation.
• Knob Type Dial: Provides intuitive and easy selection of operating modes.
• Silicone Buttons: Durable and responsive for setting adjustments.
• Large Screen: A 3.55 inch (9.04 cm) display for clear visibility of settings and status.

5. Specifications

Figure 3: Product Dimensions and Core Specifications

6. Setup

6.1. Battery Installation

1. Locate the battery compartment on the back of the timer.
2. Open the compartment cover.
3. Insert two new 1.5V 'AA' alkaline batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
4. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

6.2. Connecting to Faucet and Hoses

Figure 4: Faucet Thread Standard Information

Important Note on Faucet Thread Standards:

• For the United States, Canada, and Mexico: Please ensure you have the HCT-M09-UN variant, which includes the appropriate UN connector.
• For other countries: Please ensure you have the HCT-M09-BS variant, which includes the BS connector, 1/2" adapter, and quick connector.

Figure 5: Four independent watering zones

1. Ensure the O-ring is properly seated in the timer's inlet connector.
2. Screw the water timer securely onto your outdoor faucet. If you have the BS connector variant and a 1/2" faucet, use the provided 1/2" adapter.
3. Connect your garden hoses or irrigation lines to the four independent outlets (Zone A, B, C, D) at the bottom of the timer. Each outlet can be programmed separately.
4. Open your faucet fully to allow water pressure to the timer.

7. Operating Instructions

7.1. Setting the Current Time (SET CLOCK)

1. Turn the rotary dial to the SET CLOCK position.
2. The time display will flash. Use the '+' and '-' buttons to adjust the current hour and minute.
3. Press the OK button to confirm the time.

7.2. Programming Watering Schedules

Figure 6: Programming options for watering duration and frequency

The HCT-M09 allows independent programming for each of its four outlets (A, B, C, D).

1. Select Zone: Press the A/B/C/D button to cycle through the zones (A, B, C, D) and select the one you wish to program. The selected zone will be indicated on the display.
2. Set Start Time (START TIME):
   • Turn the rotary dial to the START TIME position.
   • Use the '+' and '-' buttons to set the desired start time for watering this zone.
   • Press OK to confirm.
3. Set Watering Duration (HOW LONG):
   • Turn the rotary dial to the HOW LONG position.
   • Use the '+' and '-' buttons to set the watering duration from 1 second up to 360 minutes.
   • Press OK to confirm.
4. Set Watering Frequency (HOW OFTEN):
   • Turn the rotary dial to the HOW OFTEN position.
   • Use the '+' and '-' buttons to set the watering frequency (e.g., every 1 day, every 2 days, up to every 15 days).
   • Press OK to confirm.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 for each zone (A, B, C, D) you wish to program.
6. Once all zones are programmed, turn the rotary dial to the ON position to activate the schedules.

7.3. Rain Delay Function

The rain delay function allows you to pause your watering schedule for a set period to avoid overwatering and conserve water, especially after rainfall.

Figure 7: Rain Delay Options

Figure 8: Rain Delay Calendar Example

1. Ensure the rotary dial is in the ON position.
2. Press the DELAY button. The display will show the delay options (e.g., 24h, 48h, 72h).
3. Use the '+' and '-' buttons to select the desired delay duration (24, 48, or 72 hours).
4. Press OK to confirm. The timer will pause watering for the selected duration and resume the schedule afterward.

7.4. Manual Watering

You can manually water at any time without interrupting your preset schedules.

Figure 9: Manual Watering Anytime

1. Ensure the rotary dial is in the ON position.
2. Press the OK button. The display will show a manual watering duration setting.
3. Use the '+' and '-' buttons to set the desired manual watering duration (from 1 second up to 360 minutes).
4. Press OK to start manual watering. The timer will water for the set duration and then return to its programmed schedule.

7.5. Turning Off the Timer

To stop all watering and programming, simply turn the rotary dial to the OFF position.

8. Maintenance

• Clean Filter: Regularly check and clean the stainless steel filter at the water inlet to prevent blockages and ensure optimal water flow.
• Battery Replacement: Replace batteries when the low battery indicator appears on the display to avoid interruption of watering schedules.
• Winter Storage: Before the first frost, disconnect the timer from the faucet, remove the batteries, and store the unit in a dry, frost-free location. Freezing water can damage the internal components.
• Cleaning: Wipe the exterior of the timer with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

9. Troubleshooting

10. User Tips

• Optimize Watering: Use the independent zone programming to tailor watering schedules to the specific needs of different plants or areas in your garden (e.g., vegetable plot, meadow, potted plants).
• Conserve Water: Utilize the rain delay function to skip watering after natural rainfall, preventing overwatering and saving water.
• Regular Checks: Periodically check your watering system, including hoses and connections, for any leaks or blockages to ensure efficient operation.
• Battery Life: For optimal performance, use high-quality alkaline batteries. Consider replacing them at the start of each watering season.
• Test Programs: After setting up a new program, run a short manual watering cycle or observe the first scheduled cycle to ensure everything is working as intended.

Figure 10: Benefits of Smart Timed Watering

Figure 11: Regular watering protects plants from wilting

11. Warranty and Support

For any questions, technical assistance, or warranty inquiries regarding your Eshico HCT-M09 4-Outlet Water Timer, please contact the seller or retailer from whom you purchased the product. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.