Hunter ELC-601i Irrigation Timer

1. Introduction

The Hunter ELC-601i is a reliable and user-friendly 6-station indoor irrigation timer designed to automate your watering schedule. This controller allows you to manage up to six independent watering zones, ensuring efficient and precise irrigation for your landscape. Its non-volatile memory retains programming even during power outages, providing peace of mind.

2. Safety Information

• This device is designed for indoor installation only. Do not install outdoors or in areas exposed to water.
• Ensure the power supply is disconnected before performing any wiring or maintenance.
• Use only the provided 230V AC transformer.
• Do not attempt to open or repair the unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.

3. Product Overview

The ELC-601i features an intuitive interface with a clear LCD display and easy-to-use buttons for programming and manual operation.

Figure 1: Front view of the Hunter ELC-601i irrigation timer, showing the LCD display, control buttons (PRG, +, -, left, right, enter), and indicators for System Off, Seasonal Adjustment, Water Days, Current Time/Day, Start Times, and Run Times.

Control Panel Features:

• LCD Display: Shows current time, program settings, and status.
• PRG Button: Used to access and navigate programming menus.
• Arrow Buttons (Left/Right): Navigate between settings.
• Plus (+) / Minus (-) Buttons: Adjust values (e.g., time, duration).
• Enter Button (Return Arrow): Confirm selections.

4. Installation

4.1 Mounting the Controller

1. Choose a suitable indoor location near a standard electrical outlet, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
2. Securely mount the controller to a wall using appropriate screws and anchors.

4.2 Wiring the Valves

• Connect one wire from each solenoid valve to a numbered terminal (1-6) on the controller.
• Connect the common wire from all valves to the terminal labeled 'COM'.

4.3 Connecting the Transformer

• Plug the included 230V AC transformer into a standard electrical outlet.
• Connect the transformer's output wires to the controller's power input terminals (typically labeled 'AC' or '24VAC').

5. Initial Setup and Programming

5.1 Setting Current Time and Day

1. Press the PRG button until the 'Current Time/Day' indicator is active.
2. Use the Plus (+) and Minus (-) buttons to adjust the time.
3. Use the Right Arrow button to move between hours, minutes, and AM/PM (if applicable).
4. Use the Plus (+) and Minus (-) buttons to set the current day of the week.
5. Press the Enter button to confirm.

5.2 Programming Watering Schedules (Programs A and B)

The ELC-601i features two independent programs, A and B, each capable of up to four start times per day.

1. Select Program: Press the PRG button to cycle through programming options until 'Start Times' is active. Use the Right Arrow button to select Program A or B.
2. Set Start Times: For each program, set up to four daily start times. Use the Plus (+) and Minus (-) buttons to adjust the time and the Right Arrow to move between start times.
3. Set Run Times: After setting start times, the 'Run Times' indicator will become active. For each station (1-6), use the Plus (+) and Minus (-) buttons to set the watering duration from 0 minutes to 4 hours, in 1-minute increments.
4. Set Water Days: The 'Water Days' indicator will become active. Choose your watering schedule:
   • 7-Day Calendar: Select specific days of the week (e.g., MO, WE, FR).
   • Intervals: Set watering to occur every 1 to 31 days (e.g., every 3 days).
   • Odd/Even Days: Water on odd or even calendar days.
   Use the arrow buttons to navigate and Plus (+) / Minus (-) to select.
5. Press the Enter button to save settings and exit programming mode.

5.3 Seasonal Adjustment

The seasonal adjustment feature allows you to globally increase or decrease watering durations for all programmed stations without reprogramming each one individually. This is useful for adapting to changing weather conditions.

• Press the PRG button until the 'Seasonal Adjustment' indicator is active.
• Use the Plus (+) and Minus (-) buttons to adjust the percentage from 10% to 150% in 10% increments.
• Press the Enter button to confirm.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Automatic Operation

Once programmed, the controller will automatically activate the watering zones according to your set schedules.

6.2 Manual Operation

To manually run a single station or all stations:

1. Press and hold the Enter button (return arrow) for a few seconds.
2. Use the Right Arrow button to select the desired station or 'ALL' for all stations.
3. Use the Plus (+) and Minus (-) buttons to set the manual run time.
4. Press the Enter button to start manual watering.
5. To stop manual watering, press the Enter button again or wait for the set time to expire.

6.3 System Off

To temporarily suspend all automatic watering:

• Press the PRG button until the 'System Off' indicator is active.
• The display will show 'OFF'. All scheduled watering will be suspended.
• To resume automatic watering, press the PRG button again until 'System Off' is no longer active.

7. Maintenance

• Keep the controller clean by wiping it with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Ensure proper ventilation around the unit.
• Periodically check wiring connections for security.

8. Troubleshooting

9. Specifications

• Model: ELC-601i
• Stations: 6
• Installation: Indoor
• Power Input: 230V AC (Transformer included)
• Operating Temperature: 20°C
• Programs: 2 independent (A, B)
• Start Times: 4 per day per program
• Run Times: 0 minutes to 4 hours (in 1-minute increments)
• Watering Schedule: 7-day calendar, Odd/Even days, or 1-31 day intervals
• Seasonal Adjustment: 10% to 150% (in 10% increments)
• Memory: Non-volatile (retains programming during power loss)
• Dimensions: Approximately 0.29 x 0.19 x 0.09 cm (L x W x H)
• Weight: Approximately 500 grams
• Material: Plastic
• Display Type: LCD

10. Warranty and Support

For information regarding warranty coverage, technical support, or service, please contact Hunter customer service or visit the official Hunter website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.