Product Information
The document displays images of the Rain Bird Simple to Set Timer (SST). One image shows two timer units: a compact model suitable for indoor or outdoor use with a clear digital display and control buttons, and a slightly larger model featuring a protective hinged cover that opens to reveal its internal components and interface. Another image provides a closer view of the compact timer unit.
How do I know which SST timer to purchase?
Selection depends on placement location and the number of zones or valves to control. Indoor models are for garages or sheds, while outdoor models can be mounted on exterior walls or fences with a power supply. Match the model to your valve count; for example, if you have 5 valves, choose a 6-zone timer. Valves are typically found in rows near the house or in yard valve boxes.
Can the SST Timer be used to replace other brands of timers?
Yes, provided the existing valves operate on standard 24 VAC.
What are zones?
A zone is a specific watering area managed by a single sprinkler valve.
Does the SST have a battery back up in case of power failure?
Yes, a battery is activated by pulling a yellow tab upon installation. This battery preserves the clock's time during a power outage but does not power the timer during a scheduled watering event.
When there is a power loss do I have to reprogram my SST Timer?
No, the timer's program is stored in non-volatile memory, so it does not require reprogramming after a power loss.
Installation
Where can I install my SST Timer?
Indoor models must be installed in a water-resistant location like a garage or shed. Outdoor models can be installed on an exterior wall or fence. After-market water-resistant boxes are available for outdoor installations. If the model number is SST400in, the "in" signifies it is an indoor model. Outdoor models can be installed either indoors or outdoors.
What is the yellow pull tab for?
Pulling the yellow tab activates the back-up battery for the clock. For optimal battery life, it is recommended to pull the tab only after the timer has been plugged in and powered up.
Does the SST Timer plug into a regular outlet?
The SST indoor model uses a regular plug with a built-in transformer, which makes it slightly oversized. It is advisable to plug it into a surge protector to minimize the risk of damage. The SST outdoor model also plugs into a regular outlet, but its transformer is integrated into the timer itself, resulting in a smaller plug.
Does the SST Outdoor come with a plug or just power wires?
The SST Outdoor includes a pre-installed, outdoor-rated plug designed to fit at a right angle, facilitating installation with outdoor outlets that have weather-resistant covers.
Do I have to use the plug that comes with the SST Outdoor or can I connect the power wires right into the Timer?
The SST outdoor plug can be removed to connect power wires directly into the timer. This process involves removing screws located under the wire bay cover and using connector caps for the wires. For any questions regarding the safe performance of this installation, please consult a professional electrician.
How do I connect the RSD rain Sensor?
1. Remove the yellow jumper wire from the Rain Sensor terminals. 2. Connect both Rain Sensor wires to the terminals marked "Rain Sensor". For best results, use a small screwdriver to press the square button above the wire port, insert the wire, then release the button to secure it.
I want to use a PVC conduit to my SST Outdoor. What size do I need?
A 3/4" PVC pipe is suitable, as the opening on the SST Outdoor is approximately the same size as the 0.82" inside diameter of the pipe.
Programming
Are there steps to programming the timer?
The most straightforward method for setting the timer involves turning the dial clockwise. The steps are: A. Set the clock time. B. Set the date. C. For each zone, set: 1. Start time, 2. Watering time, 3. Watering days, 4. Times per day. D. Adjust seasonal watering as needed. E. Turn the dial to "Auto Run". Additional programming information is available through tutorial videos on the Rain Bird website.
How can I program the clock quickly?
When setting the clock, there is no dedicated AM/PM button. By holding down the up or down arrow buttons, the clock will cycle through the time very rapidly, allowing you to quickly set the desired time of day.
Do I need to set the start times of each zone so they start in sequence?
No, all zones can be set to the same start time. The SST timer will automatically "stack" zones sequentially. For instance, if you have a 4-zone timer where each zone is set for 10 minutes and all are programmed to start at 5 AM, the schedule will be: Zone 1 at 5:00 AM, Zone 2 at 5:10 AM, Zone 3 at 5:20 AM, and Zone 4 at 5:30 AM.
Can I have every zone start at the same time?
No, most homes do not have sufficient water pressure to run more than one zone simultaneously. The SST timer automatically "stacks" zones set for the same start time, running them one after the other.
What are the watering time increments?
Watering duration can be set from 1 to 240 minutes.
How many times a day can I water?
The SST timer supports up to 4 different watering times per day.
How do I change additional watering times per day on the SST?
For SST models with blue "watering times per day" buttons, the second watering time typically has a preset 6-hour offset from the first. This offset can be adjusted by pressing the "Two Times" button again, cycling through options like +1, +2, +3, +4, +8, +9, +12 hours. Similar offset options are available for "Three Times" and "Four Times" buttons. For models with green "watering times per day" buttons, each watering time is set by the specific time of day. Press the desired time button (e.g., "2nd time") and use the up/down arrows to set the watering time.
Can I set zones for different watering times?
Yes, this is a key feature of the SST Timer. Each zone can be fully customized with different watering times, and can be set for single or multiple watering cycles (up to four per day). This is ideal for watering different types of plants, grass, and trees.
How does Rain Delay work?
Rain Delay allows you to postpone watering for a set period, from 12 to 72 hours, in 12-hour increments.
If I want to water all my zones manually do I have to do them one at a time?
No. You can water all zones manually without individual selection. The timer features two manual watering buttons: "Water All Now" and "Water One Zone Now". If the dial is set to "Auto Run", pressing "Water All Now" will execute the preset watering duration for all zones. Note that older SST models may not have the "Water All Now" button and require manual zone-by-zone watering.
Is there a way to use the "Water All Now" button but skip a zone?
Yes. By pressing the "Water All Now" button again, you can skip the current zone and proceed to the next. This function can be used to skip any number of zones as needed.
Troubleshooting
When I go to water 1 zone manually it starts at a 10 minute watering time. Can this be customized?
Manual watering for a single zone defaults to 10 minutes but can be adjusted from 1 to 180 minutes. For programmed watering times across all zones, use the "Water All Now" button.
I want to turn one zone off for a few days while I work on the yard but I don't want to lose my program, can I do that?
Yes. Navigate to the specific zone number, press the "zone off" button. The zone will remain off until you reactivate it by turning the water times per day button back on. Your program settings will be preserved.
Why does my SST timer run through all my zones, stop and then start all over again?
This typically occurs when a second, third, or fourth start time is selected. Check the "watering times per day" buttons when the dial is set to the zone(s) that are repeating. If multiple time buttons are illuminated, press the ones that should be deactivated; their indicator lights will then turn off.
Why is my SST watering double the amount of time as I have in the settings?
This issue might stem from excessively long watering times set for a zone or zones, or from setting the seasonal adjust to 100%. First, verify that all zone watering times are accurate. If they are, adjust the seasonal setting by turning the dial to "seasonal adjust" and using the up/down arrows to change the percentage to 0%.
Why does my SST still water even after turning it off?
If watering continues after the dial has been turned to the "off" position, it indicates a problem with one or more valves. It may be necessary to replace a valve or contact a contractor. Refer to the valve section of the Rain Bird website for flushing debris or further troubleshooting.
My SST will not water automatically or manually, what now?
Perform the following checks: 1. Ensure the rain sensor is functioning correctly, or if no rain sensor is installed, verify that the yellow jumper wire is in place where the sensor would connect. 2. Confirm that Rain Delay is not activated. 3. Check if the valves have water supply. You can test this by turning a valve bleed screw and observing for water flow. If water flows briefly and then stops, the water supply to your valves may be turned off. Check your main water shutoff valve or contact your water utility company.
My power cord to my SST indoor is missing/damaged/not working, can I get a replacement?
Yes, the UT1 model of transformer is a suitable replacement for an SST indoor timer and is available at many retailers or online.
My SST Timer screen is blank. What should I do?
For an Indoor Timer: Ensure the timer power plug is securely connected and not dislodged or damaged. Check the circuit breaker for the outlet being used. Verify if the red indicator light on the plug is illuminated. If the red light is off, and you have confirmed the outlet has power, the plug itself may need replacement. The UT1 transformer is the recommended replacement for an SST Indoor Timer.
