Orbit Easy Dial 4-Station Indoor Sprinkler Controller

Introduction

The Orbit Easy Dial 4-Station Indoor Sprinkler Controller provides convenient and flexible control over your lawn or garden watering schedule. Its user-friendly design simplifies setup and customization, offering features like rain delay and water budgeting to meet your specific irrigation needs. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, programming, and operation to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your sprinkler timer.

Image: Front view of the Orbit Easy Dial 4-Station Indoor Sprinkler Controller, showing the digital display, control buttons, and rotary dial.

Setup

Power Connection

Ensure your sprinkler timer is properly connected to an AC power source. The internal battery only retains programming settings during power outages and does not operate the sprinkler valves. A "NO AC" message on the display indicates the unit is not receiving AC power.

Image: The Orbit Easy Dial controller with its front cover removed, revealing the wiring terminals for power and zone connections.

Wiring

Connect your sprinkler system's valve wires to the corresponding terminals inside the controller. Ensure the common wire is connected to the 'COM' terminal. The 24VAC terminals are for power input. Refer to the diagram inside the controller's wiring compartment for specific connections.

Operating Instructions

Basic Programming

The Easy Dial controller utilizes Easy Set Logic Technology for straightforward programming. Follow these steps to set up your basic watering schedule:

1. Set Current Time: Turn the dial to 'SET CLOCK'. Use the '+' and '-' buttons to adjust the time, paying attention to AM/PM. Use the left/right arrows to switch between AM/PM.
2. Set Date: Turn the dial to 'SET DATE'. Use the '+' and '-' buttons to set the correct year. Use the right arrow to move to month, then set the month. Use the right arrow again to set the day of the month.
3. Set Start Time: Turn the dial to 'START TIME'. Use the '+' and '-' buttons to set the desired time for your first watering cycle to begin. Only one start time is required to activate all programmed zones sequentially.
4. Set Run Times: Turn the dial to 'RUN TIME'. For each station you wish to water, use the '+' and '-' buttons to set the watering duration (1-240 minutes). Use the right arrow to advance to the next station. If three dashes appear for a station, it will not water.
5. Set How Often: Turn the dial to 'HOW OFTEN'. You can choose to water on specific days of the week (toggle with arrows, press ENTER for desired days), odd/even calendar days (toggle with arrows, press ENTER), or set an interval (e.g., every 2 days).

Advanced Programming

The Easy Dial controller offers advanced programming options for more complex watering needs, such as managing different plant types or areas with varying water requirements.

• Multiple Programs (A & B): The controller has two independent programs (A and B). This allows you to group stations with similar watering needs into separate programs. For example, Program A for lawn and Program B for garden beds.
• Multiple Start Times: Each program can have up to four start times. This feature is useful for allowing water to saturate the ground better, reducing runoff and water waste. For instance, instead of watering for 30 minutes once, you can set three 10-minute start times spread throughout the morning.

Additional Features

• Manual Watering: You can manually water specific stations or all stations without affecting your programmed schedule. With the dial in 'AUTO', press the 'MANUAL' button. Use the arrows to select 'ALL' or a specific station, then set the desired watering duration. Press 'CLEAR' to stop manual watering at any time.
• Rain Delay: This feature allows you to temporarily pause your watering schedule for a set period (24, 48, or 72 hours) without losing your programmed settings. This is useful after heavy rainfall or if your plants are already well-watered. With the dial in 'AUTO', press the 'RAIN DELAY' button and use '+' or '-' to select the delay duration. Press 'CLEAR' to cancel the delay.
• Rain/Freeze Sensors: (Sold Separately) These sensors prevent your timer from watering during rain or freezing conditions, conserving water and protecting your plants and system from damage. Once properly wired and the sensor switch is set to 'ON', the sensor will automatically interrupt watering when sufficient rain has fallen or temperatures drop below freezing.

Maintenance

• Battery Replacement: The controller uses a CR2032 lithium battery to maintain time and programming during power outages. Replace the battery annually or when the low battery indicator appears on the display.
• Connection Check: Periodically inspect all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion. Loose connections can lead to erratic operation.
• Cleaning: Wipe the controller's exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Ensure the display and buttons are free from dust and debris.

Troubleshooting

• Display is Blank: Check the AC power connection. Ensure the power adapter is plugged into a working outlet and securely connected to the controller.
• Zones Not Watering:
  • Ensure the dial is in the 'AUTO' position.
  • Verify that a start time, run time, and watering frequency are set for the program.
  • Check wiring connections to the valves.
  • If a rain sensor is connected, ensure it is dry and the bypass switch is not engaged.
• Incorrect Watering Schedule:
  • Review your 'SET CLOCK' and 'SET DATE' settings for accuracy, including AM/PM.
  • Double-check your 'START TIME' and 'HOW OFTEN' settings to ensure they align with your desired schedule.

Specifications

Warranty & Support

This Orbit product is designed for reliability and ease of use. For any issues or questions not covered in this manual, please refer to the official Orbit website or contact their customer support. Standard return policies apply for product defects or dissatisfaction.