1. Important Safety Information
- This water timer is designed for outdoor use with cold water only.
- Do not immerse the timer in water.
- Protect the timer from freezing temperatures. Remove batteries and store indoors during winter.
- Use only fresh alkaline batteries of the specified type. Do not mix old and new batteries.
- Ensure all connections are tight to prevent leaks.
2. Product Overview
The Nelson Dual Outlet Electric Water Timer, Model 56612, provides automated watering for two separate zones. Its large LCD display and intuitive dial make programming simple. Key features include:
- Easy-to-read large LCD display.
- Independent programming for two outlets.
- Manual on/off button for instant watering.
- Rain delay function to conserve water.
- Metal swivel coupling with ergonomic grip for easy attachment.

Figure 2.1: Front view of the Nelson Dual Outlet Electric Water Timer. This image displays the large LCD screen, the rotary dial for setting functions (Set Clock, Start Time, How Long, How Often, Run, Off), and the L/R buttons for selecting outlets. The manual watering button and plus/minus buttons are also visible.
3. Package Contents
- 1 x Nelson Dual Outlet Electric Water Timer (Model 56612)
- 1 x User Manual (this document)
Note: Batteries are not included and must be purchased separately. Requires 2 AA alkaline batteries.
4. Installation & Setup
4.1 Battery Installation
- Locate the battery compartment on the back of the timer.
- Slide the battery cover off.
- Insert two (2) fresh AA alkaline batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Replace the battery cover securely.
4.2 Attaching the Timer
- Ensure the timer is in the 'OFF' position.
- Thread the timer onto a standard outdoor faucet (spigot) by hand. Tighten firmly to prevent leaks, but do not overtighten.
- Attach your garden hoses to the two independent outlets at the bottom of the timer. Ensure these connections are also tight.
- Turn on the faucet completely. The timer is designed to operate under full water pressure.

Figure 4.1: Side view of the Nelson Dual Outlet Electric Water Timer illustrating its dimensions: 8 inches deep, 10 inches wide, and 4 inches high. This helps in planning installation space.
5. Operating Instructions
The timer features a rotary dial for selecting programming steps and '+' / '-' buttons for adjusting values. The 'L/R' button selects the left or right outlet for programming.
5.1 Setting the Clock
- Turn the dial to 'SET CLOCK'.
- Use the '+' and '-' buttons to set the current time. The time will advance in 1-minute increments. Hold the buttons for faster adjustment.
- Press the 'L/R' button to toggle between AM and PM.
- Once the correct time is set, turn the dial to the next desired setting or 'RUN'.
5.2 Setting Start Time
- Turn the dial to 'START TIME'.
- Press the 'L/R' button to select either the Left (L) or Right (R) outlet for programming.
- Use the '+' and '-' buttons to set the desired start time for watering.
- Repeat for the other outlet if needed.
5.3 Setting How Long (Watering Duration)
- Turn the dial to 'HOW LONG'.
- Press the 'L/R' button to select the Left (L) or Right (R) outlet.
- Use the '+' and '-' buttons to set the watering duration from 1 minute up to 240 minutes (4 hours).
- Repeat for the other outlet if needed.
5.4 Setting How Often (Watering Frequency)
- Turn the dial to 'HOW OFTEN'.
- Press the 'L/R' button to select the Left (L) or Right (R) outlet.
- Use the '+' and '-' buttons to set the watering frequency. Options typically include every 6 hours, 12 hours, or every 1 to 7 days.
- Repeat for the other outlet if needed.
5.5 Running the Program
After setting all desired parameters, turn the dial to 'RUN'. The timer will now operate according to your programmed schedule for both outlets.
5.6 Manual Watering
To water manually without affecting the program:
- Ensure the dial is in the 'RUN' position.
- Press the manual watering button (often depicted with a faucet icon).
- Use the '+' and '-' buttons to select the desired manual watering duration.
- Press the 'L/R' button to select which outlet (Left or Right) you wish to activate.
- The selected outlet will begin watering for the set duration. The timer will return to its programmed schedule after manual watering is complete.
5.7 Rain Delay Function
To pause your watering schedule due to rain or other reasons:
- Turn the dial to 'FOR RAIN DELAY'.
- Use the '+' and '-' buttons to select the desired delay period (e.g., 24, 48, 72 hours, up to 7 days).
- The timer will pause watering for the selected duration and automatically resume its program afterward.
5.8 Turning Off the Timer
To stop all automatic and manual watering, turn the dial to 'OFF'. The timer will remain off until the dial is moved to 'RUN' or another programming setting.
6. Maintenance
- Battery Replacement: Replace batteries annually or when the low battery indicator appears on the LCD.
- Cleaning: Wipe the exterior of the timer with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Filter Screen: Periodically check the filter screen located in the timer's inlet for debris. Clean if necessary to ensure proper water flow.
- Winter Storage: Before the first frost, disconnect the timer from the faucet, remove batteries, and store the unit indoors in a dry, protected area.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Timer does not turn on/LCD is blank. | Dead or incorrectly installed batteries. | Replace with fresh AA alkaline batteries, ensuring correct polarity. |
| No water flow. | Faucet is off; Timer is in 'OFF' position; Low battery; Clogged filter screen; Incorrect programming. | Ensure faucet is fully open; Turn dial to 'RUN'; Replace batteries; Clean filter screen; Verify program settings (Start Time, How Long, How Often). |
| Timer leaks from connections. | Loose connections; Worn washer. | Tighten connections by hand; Check and replace rubber washers if damaged. |
| Timer not watering at scheduled time. | Incorrect clock setting; Incorrect program settings; Rain delay active. | Verify current time; Recheck Start Time, How Long, and How Often settings for the specific outlet; Check if Rain Delay is active and wait for it to expire or cancel it. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 56612 |
| Brand | Nelson |
| Power Source | 2 x AA Alkaline Batteries (not included) |
| Number of Outlets | 2 |
| Material | Plastic with Metal Swivel Coupling |
| Product Dimensions | 8"D x 10"W x 4"H |
| Item Weight | 16 ounces (1 pound) |
| Screen Size | 2.88 Inches |
| UPC | 077855001254, 757769043426 |
9. Warranty Information
This product is covered by the manufacturer's limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the manufacturer's official website for specific terms and conditions. The warranty typically covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
10. Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty inquiries, please contact Nelson customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the product packaging or the official Nelson brand website.
When contacting support, please have your product model number (56612) and proof of purchase readily available.





