How to Set Your Orbit Sprinkler Timer - Quick Answers

Find Your Model Manual

Need detailed instructions for your specific timer? Find your model number (usually on a label on your timer) and download the full manual below:

Model Number	Picture	Manual PDF Link
57894, 57896		Manual
28568		Manual Remote Manual
57594		Manual
57004, 57006, 91024, 94002, 94004		Manual
57880		Manual
57926		Manual
83700		Manual

Getting Started: Basic Setup

First things first - get your timer ready to go:

• Set the current time: Turn dial to SET CLOCK, use +/- buttons for time, arrow buttons for AM/PM
• Set today's date: Turn dial to SET DATE, use +/- buttons to set year/month/day
• You're ready to program!

Programming Your Watering Schedule

The essentials to get water flowing:

• Start Time: Turn dial to START TIME, use +/- buttons to pick when watering begins (like 6:00 AM)
• Run Time: Turn dial to RUN TIME, use arrows to select each zone, +/- buttons to set minutes per zone
• How Often: Turn dial to HOW OFTEN, choose specific days (Mon/Wed/Fri) or intervals (every 2 days)
• Activate: Turn dial to AUTO and you're done!

Do I Need Multiple Start Times?

Most people only need ONE start time. Think of it as "when should my sprinklers turn on?"

Use multiple start times only if:

• You have new grass seed that needs watering 2-3 times per day
• Your water pressure can't handle all zones at once
• Local watering restrictions require split schedules

Keep it simple: Start with one time (early morning works best), then add more only if needed.

When to Use Multiple Programs (A, B, C)

Program A handles most yards perfectly. Here's when to use the others:

Use Program B for:

• Drip irrigation zones that need different watering days
• New plantings that need extra water temporarily
• Areas with different sun exposure

Use Program C for:

• Seasonal adjustments (like winter vs. summer schedules)
• Special watering needs

Quick Troubleshooting

Timer not watering?

• Check that dial is on AUTO
• Make sure you set both START TIME and RUN TIME
• Verify your watering days in HOW OFTEN

Watering too much/little?

• Use BUDGET feature to adjust all zones at once (dial to BUDGET, +/- to change percentage)
• 50% = half the time, 150% = 1.5x the time

Need help fast?

• Press MANUAL button for immediate watering to test your setup
• RAIN DELAY button pauses watering for 24-72 hours