rain bird sst900in manual

Rain Bird SST900IN Manual⁚ A Comprehensive Guide

This comprehensive guide provides a detailed overview of the Rain Bird SST900IN, a user-friendly indoor-mounted irrigation timer. This manual covers essential aspects, from installation and programming to troubleshooting and maintenance, ensuring you can effectively utilize the timer’s features to optimize your watering schedule and maintain a healthy, lush lawn.

Introduction

The Rain Bird SST900IN Simple-To-Set Indoor Sprinkler Timer is a versatile and user-friendly irrigation controller designed to simplify the process of watering your lawn and garden. This indoor-mounted timer offers a range of features that cater to a variety of irrigation needs, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking for a reliable and easy-to-use system. This manual serves as your comprehensive guide to understanding and utilizing all the functionalities of the Rain Bird SST900IN.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice homeowner, the Rain Bird SST900IN is designed to be intuitive and straightforward. Its zone-by-zone scheduling allows you to customize watering times for different areas of your yard, ensuring optimal hydration for each plant type. With features like rain delay, seasonal adjustments, and compatibility with rain sensors, the SST900IN helps you conserve water while maintaining a healthy lawn. This manual will walk you through the installation, programming, operation, and troubleshooting aspects of the Rain Bird SST900IN, empowering you to maximize its potential and achieve your desired watering results.

Key Features of the Rain Bird SST900IN

The Rain Bird SST900IN boasts a range of features that make it a comprehensive and user-friendly irrigation solution. Its key functionalities include⁚

• Zone-by-Zone Scheduling⁚ This allows you to customize watering times for each area of your yard, ensuring that different plant types receive the appropriate amount of water.
• Custom Watering Days⁚ Set specific days of the week, odd or even days, or a cycle number of days for each zone, providing flexible watering options.
• Multiple Watering Times⁚ Program up to four different watering times per day, ideal for slopes and clay soils where shorter intervals help water soak in and prevent runoff;
• Seasonal Adjustments⁚ Easily increase watering in hot, dry months and reduce it during rainy periods with one-touch adjustments.
• Rain Delay⁚ Suspend watering for up to 72 hours to conserve water during rainy spells. Programming automatically resumes when the delay ends.
• Compatibility⁚ Works with most irrigation valve models that use 24 VAC.
• Durability⁚ Built with long-lasting materials and superior surge protection for reliable performance.
• Master Valve/Pump Control⁚ Supports a master valve or pump start relay for convenient system operation.
• Rain Sensor Integration⁚ Allows you to connect an optional rain sensor to automatically suspend watering when rain is detected, maximizing water conservation.

These features combine to make the Rain Bird SST900IN a powerful and adaptable irrigation controller that meets the diverse needs of homeowners.

Installation Process

Installing the Rain Bird SST900IN is a straightforward process that can be completed with basic tools and a little time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth installation⁚

1. Choose a Location⁚ Select a suitable indoor location for the timer, such as a garage, shed, or a protected area in your home. Ensure the location is dry, well-ventilated, and accessible for programming and maintenance.
2. Prepare the Wiring⁚ Disconnect the power supply to your irrigation system. Carefully mark all wires connected to your existing timer to ensure proper reconnection.
3. Mount the Timer⁚ Use the provided mounting bracket to secure the timer to the wall. Ensure the bracket is level and stable.
4. Connect the Wires⁚ Connect the wires from your irrigation system to the corresponding terminals on the timer. Refer to the wiring diagram provided in the manual to ensure correct connections.
5. Connect the Rain Sensor (Optional)⁚ If you plan to use a rain sensor, connect it to the designated terminals on the timer. Remove the jumper wire from the Rain Sensor terminals and connect the rain sensor wires to the terminals marked “RAIN SENSOR.”
6. Apply Power⁚ Carefully reconnect the power supply to your irrigation system. The timer should power up and display its initial settings.
7. Test the System⁚ After connecting the power, test each zone of your irrigation system to ensure proper operation.

If you encounter any difficulties during the installation process, consult the Rain Bird SST900IN manual for troubleshooting tips or contact Rain Bird customer support for assistance.

Programming the Timer

Programming the Rain Bird SST900IN is a simple and intuitive process, allowing you to customize watering schedules for each zone of your irrigation system. The timer’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to set up watering days, times, and durations, ensuring optimal water usage and a healthy lawn.

The timer features a dial that allows you to select each zone individually. By turning the dial to a specific zone, you can access the programming settings for that particular zone. This zone-by-zone scheduling provides flexibility, enabling you to tailor watering schedules to the specific needs of different areas in your yard.

The programming options include setting custom days of the week, odd or even days, or a cycle number of days, independent of other zones. You can also set up to four different custom watering times of the day, ideal for watering slopes and clay soils in short intervals to promote water absorption and minimize runoff.

The timer also allows you to make seasonal adjustments, increasing watering during hot, dry months and reducing it during rainy periods. The Rain Delay feature suspends watering for up to 72 hours, automatically resuming the programmed schedule once the delay period ends.

By following the instructions in the Rain Bird SST900IN manual, you can easily program your timer to meet your specific watering needs, ensuring a healthy and vibrant lawn with efficient water usage.

Setting the Clock and Date

Accurately setting the clock and date on your Rain Bird SST900IN is crucial for ensuring proper operation of your irrigation system. The timer uses the time and date to determine when to activate your watering schedule, so it’s essential to input the correct information.

To set the clock and date, first, turn the dial to the “SET DATE” position. This will activate the date setting mode. Use the left UP/DOWN arrow keys to select the current year. Once the year is set, use the right UP/DOWN arrow keys to select the current month and day. After setting the date, the timer will automatically display the current time.

If you need to adjust the time, turn the dial to “SET TIME.” The time will be displayed in hours and minutes. Use the left UP/DOWN arrow keys to adjust the hours and the right UP/DOWN arrow keys to adjust the minutes. Once the time is set, the timer will automatically save the information and return to the main screen.

It is recommended to check the clock and date settings regularly, especially during daylight saving time transitions or after power outages. Ensuring the timer’s time and date are accurate will guarantee that your irrigation system operates correctly, providing your lawn with the appropriate water supply.

Configuring Watering Zones

The Rain Bird SST900IN allows you to customize watering schedules for each zone in your yard, ensuring that different areas receive the appropriate amount of water. This zone-by-zone scheduling provides flexibility and efficiency, enabling you to tailor your irrigation system to the specific needs of your lawn.

To configure watering zones, turn the dial to the desired zone number. Each zone corresponds to a specific area of your yard, and you can set individual watering schedules for each zone. Once you select a zone, you can access various settings, including days of the week, odd or even days, or a cycle number of days. This allows you to customize the frequency of watering for each zone, ensuring that areas with different soil types or sun exposure receive adequate water.

The timer also allows you to set up to four different custom watering times of the day for each zone. This feature is particularly useful for slopes and clay soils, where shorter watering intervals help prevent runoff and allow water to soak in effectively. By customizing the watering schedules for each zone, you can optimize water usage and ensure your lawn receives the optimal amount of moisture.

Customizing Watering Schedules

The Rain Bird SST900IN offers a range of options for customizing watering schedules, enabling you to adjust the frequency and duration of watering based on your lawn’s needs and the prevailing weather conditions. This flexibility ensures that your lawn receives adequate water without overwatering, promoting healthy growth and conserving water.

You can select from various watering frequency options, including specific days of the week, odd or even days, or a cycle number of days. This allows you to tailor the watering schedule to the unique characteristics of your lawn, such as soil type, sun exposure, and plant types. You can also set up to four different custom watering times of the day for each zone, allowing you to adjust the duration of watering based on the specific needs of each area.

The timer’s one-touch seasonal adjustments allow you to increase watering in hot, dry months and reduce it in rainy periods, ensuring that your lawn receives the appropriate amount of water throughout the year. The Rain Delay feature suspends watering for up to 72 hours, allowing you to temporarily postpone watering during periods of heavy rainfall or when you are away from home. This feature helps conserve water and prevents overwatering, contributing to a healthy and sustainable lawn.

Manual Operation

The Rain Bird SST900IN offers a convenient manual operation feature, allowing you to manually water your lawn as needed, supplementing the automated watering schedule. This functionality proves particularly useful in situations where you require immediate watering, such as after a prolonged dry spell or when you’ve recently seeded or transplanted new grass.

The manual operation feature provides two options for manual watering⁚ Water 1 Zone Now and Water All Zones Now. To water a single zone, you simply turn the dial to select the desired zone and then press the WATER 1 ZONE NOW button. The timer will automatically water the selected zone for a default duration of 10 minutes. To water all zones simultaneously, turn the dial to AUTO RUN and press the WATER ALL ZONES NOW button.

The timer’s manual operation feature offers flexibility and control, allowing you to adjust watering schedules based on immediate needs and ensure that your lawn receives adequate water throughout the year. This feature is particularly helpful in situations where the automatic watering schedule may not be sufficient or when you need to water specific areas of your lawn for a shorter period.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

While the Rain Bird SST900IN is designed for reliable operation, occasional issues may arise. This section provides guidance on troubleshooting common problems and performing routine maintenance to ensure your timer functions optimally.

If you encounter problems with your timer, start by reviewing the user manual for troubleshooting tips. Common issues include no power, no watering, or incorrect watering times. If you’re unable to resolve the issue, contact Rain Bird technical support for assistance.

Routine maintenance helps prevent problems and ensures the longevity of your timer. Regularly inspect the timer for any signs of damage or wear, such as loose wires or cracked housing. Clean the timer’s exterior with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Finally, inspect the wiring connections and ensure they are secure.

By following these simple troubleshooting and maintenance guidelines, you can keep your Rain Bird SST900IN timer operating smoothly and efficiently for years to come.

Rain Sensor Integration

The Rain Bird SST900IN offers the option to integrate a rain sensor, enhancing its water conservation capabilities. A rain sensor automatically detects precipitation and suspends watering, preventing unnecessary irrigation during rainy periods. This feature helps conserve water, protect your lawn from overwatering, and reduce your water bill.

To connect a rain sensor, you’ll need to follow the steps outlined in the user manual. Typically, this involves removing the jumper wire from the rain sensor terminals on the timer and connecting the rain sensor delay wires to the terminals marked “RAIN SENSOR.” Ensure the rain sensor is properly installed and positioned to accurately detect rainfall.

Once connected, the rain sensor will automatically activate when it detects precipitation, halting watering cycles. Once the rain stops and the sensor dries, the timer will resume its programmed watering schedule. The integration of a rain sensor adds a level of intelligence to your irrigation system, ensuring that your lawn receives the optimal amount of water, regardless of weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Rain Bird SST900IN, along with their answers⁚

Q⁚ How many zones can I control with the SST900IN?

A⁚ The SST900IN can control up to 9 zones, allowing you to customize watering schedules for different areas of your yard.

Q⁚ How do I program the watering times for each zone?

A⁚ The SST900IN features an intuitive zone-by-zone programming system. You can set custom days of the week, odd or even days, or a cycle number of days for each zone. You can also choose from four different watering times per day.

Q⁚ Can I adjust the watering times for different seasons?

A⁚ Yes, the SST900IN allows you to make seasonal adjustments to watering times. You can increase watering during hot, dry months and reduce it during rainy periods.

Q⁚ What type of irrigation valves are compatible with the SST900IN?

A⁚ The SST900IN works with most irrigation valves that use 24 VAC.

Q⁚ Can I use a rain sensor with the SST900IN?

A⁚ Yes, the SST900IN supports the use of a rain sensor. Connecting a rain sensor will automatically suspend watering during periods of rain, helping conserve water.

The Rain Bird SST900IN is a versatile and user-friendly irrigation timer that offers a comprehensive suite of features to simplify and optimize your watering schedules. Its zone-by-zone programming, seasonal adjustments, and rain sensor compatibility make it an ideal choice for homeowners seeking a reliable and efficient solution for maintaining a healthy lawn.

By following the instructions provided in this manual, you can confidently install, program, and operate the SST900IN. The timer’s intuitive design and clear user interface ensure a straightforward experience, allowing you to easily customize your watering schedules and conserve water.

For further assistance, refer to the online resources provided by Rain Bird, which include detailed manuals, videos, and FAQs. The Rain Bird Support Center can provide additional guidance and troubleshooting tips, ensuring you get the most out of your SST900IN and maintain a lush, healthy lawn.