The Best Water Hose Timer Models in 2024

ByJames Greyser
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Watering a garden every day can be a stressful experience. You even run the risk of forgetting to do it for a few days and stunting the growth of your plants. This is where a water hose timer system comes in. These systems take the guesswork out of keeping a garden or lawn well-watered.

But what is this system, and what are the best water hose timer models in 2024? We’ll give you the answers to these questions and more in this article.

The Best Water Hose Timers Compared

Orbit 21004 B-hyve Smart Hose Faucet Timer with Wi-Fi Hub, Compatible with Alexa, GRAY
Most Popular
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Instapark PWT-07 Outdoor Waterproof Digital Timer
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Orbit Dual Valve Digital Watering Hose Timer Water Faucet Hose Bib Timer
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Raindrip R675CT Analog 3-Dial Water Timer
Lowest Price
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Instapark High Precision Electronic Outdoor Garden Hose End Automatic Shut Off Water Timer
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Why Do I Need A Hose Timer?

While water hose timers aren’t technically necessary, the convenience and usefulness make the investment worthwhile. The two most significant benefits these timers give the consumer are saving time and water, which are precious. 

Save Time

Setting up the equipment and watering your lawn or garden every day during a dry spell is a time-consuming activity. And checking the soil to see if it needs water is also annoying after a long day at work.

A hose timer takes the monotony out of watering your garden and does the work for you.

Save Water

When you water your garden yourself, it’s hard to get the exact right amount of water in every area. Inevitably, you will over or under-water some parts of the lawn or garden. Overwatering is both environmentally unfriendly and costly to your wallet. A hose timer alleviates these issues.

You control how much water the system sends out and when it turns on. Some models come equipped with sensors to see if the soil is already sufficiently watered or if it has rained. Educational institutions such as the University of Florida and the University of Nebraska have said using a water hose timer is an effective method of water conservation

What Makes A Great Garden Hose Timer?

Plenty of garden hose timers exist in the market today, but not every model has the features you might want. We will look at some of the most important features of timers, as well as some of the benefits these systems provide.

If you have a large garden or lawn area, one hose won’t be enough to provide sufficient irrigation. Some garden hose timers come with attachments for multiple hoses. Keep in mind how much area you need to cover when looking for your water hose timer. If you only need one hose hookup, purchasing a smaller timer will save money.

It makes no sense to have the automatic hose timer run during a rainstorm. Luckily, most water hose timers allow users to skip watering for the day if they deem it necessary with a rain delay function. You can either control this feature manually on the timer itself or through an app on more advanced models.

If you are out of the house and don’t want to worry about the necessity of shutting down the watering cycle, some models have other useful rain features. Advanced water hose timers come with a sensor you place in the soil. If it detects the moisture level is acceptable, it will automatically skip that day’s watering cycle.

Another useful feature to avoid wasting water is weather forecasting. Some models will use Wi-Fi to scan the local weather report and tailor the day’s watering to match the weather forecast. Of course, this feature might lead to inaccurate watering cycles if the forecast is incorrect.

The number of watering cycles and the duration of those cycles varies between products. Some models allow for only one cycle per day, while others may allow you to set multiple cycles at different times throughout the day.

Before purchasing a water hose timer, you should understand the needs of your garden or lawn. If you have a large garden with various vegetables, it would be best to purchase a product that provides multiple daily cycles. Models with flexible schedules are also great for those living in areas with frequent droughts.

We divide water hose timers into two categories: digital and mechanical. A Mechanical timer is cheaper and simpler in use and design. They do not use electricity, and you control watering with a simple dial. They are more weather resistant than digital timers but do not include the bevy of quality-of-life features either.

Digital hose timers use AA batteries and allow for more customization and features. They are best for people who want to program the device once and let it handle the rest. They also come with a digital screen, and some feature automation options. These models are more expensive and require maintenance, such as replacing batteries.

Few things can be as frustrating as receiving a product that quickly malfunctions. And worse yet, you might not have a warranty plan for it. Before buying a water timer, check the manufacturer’s website or the product description to see if they come with any warranty plan.

Mechanical hose timers will never have an app, but some digital models will. An app is helpful as it allows you to make changes to the watering cycle without physically going to the device to make changes. Check the model before buying to see if it comes with an app. Keep in mind this feature might increase the price and complexity of the product.

Smart features are typically handled through the app in two ways: Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Wi-Fi connections will reach everywhere your signal does, but you won’t be able to use it in a larger yard without adequate coverage. Bluetooth coverage can help you reach the areas of your property where Wi-Fi won’t reach.

Some cheaper models might have substandard construction to lower the price. In these cases, the products might not be entirely waterproof. A hose timer will see a lot of contact with water, and digital models without adequate waterproofing are susceptible to disabling damage. Ensure the timer is waterproof before purchasing it.

Electronic timers are either powered by batteries — most commonly AA batteries — or through solar power. A solar hose timer won’t require batteries to function but must be set in an area with lots of sunlight. You can place devices using batteries anywhere, but you will need to change the AA batteries at times.

Most hose timers use the standard 3/4 inch attachment for use with a hose, sprinkler, or outdoor faucet. If you have a hose that doesn’t use this standard hookup, you will need to find a different timer to suit your needs.

The Best Hose Timer Reviews

Best Overall Hose Timer: Orbit 21004 B-hyve Smart Hose Faucet Timer with Wi-Fi Hub, Compatible with Alexa, GRAY

We like Orbit 21004 B-hyve Smart Hose Faucet Timer with Wi-Fi Hub, Compatible with Alexa, GRAY

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The Orbit 21004 B-hyve Smart Hose Timer is a premium product for use with gardens and lawns. It will fit the needs of most users, with high programmability and plenty of features for you to take advantage of. It is perhaps the best hose timer money can buy.

You control this smart hose timer with the B-hyve app. Once users have set up the device with their hose, they will need to download the app to use the system. The device uses either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth with a range of 150 feet.

For users with an Amazon Echo, Orbit has made their device compatible with Alexa. Turning on the water system is as simple as saying “Alexa, turn my water on.”

Consumers with large yards or gardens can purchase multiple devices and connect them all through one app, thanks to the system’s network meshing capability. You can additionally purchase a splitter for the Orbit to allow one device to use four hoses instead of just one.

This model also has useful technology for water conservation. It has WeatherSense Technology that combines live readings of the soil with weather forecast information to determine how much water to use on a day-to-day basis.

The app provides users with information on daily water usage. You will always know how much water you’re using with this product.

Setting up the system is a simple process. Users need to attach the device to their hose, then download the B-hyve app. Once you’ve got the app, you can program the timer to your needs and analyze its many features. Some users have said the app can be confusing and doesn’t always work properly.

Pros

  • A bevy of useful features such as water conservation technology
  • Simple to add multiple hoses or systems to
  • Compatible with either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology
  • Simple installation
  • Alexa Enabled

Cons

  • Pricier than some other models
  • Sometimes complicated and buggy app interface

Best Timer W/O Smartphone Control: Instapark PWT-07 Outdoor Waterproof Digital Timer

We like Instapark PWT-07 Outdoor Waterproof Digital Timer

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For users who still want some of the conveniences of a digital model but don’t want to deal with an app, this offering from Instapark is for you. It is manually controlled by a device that is water- and impact-resistant. It might be missing a few features from the Orbit device, but it should still work well for most users. It is one of the best water timers on the market.

The Instapark is compatible with only one hose but does come with plenty of options for choosing the watering cycle. You have full control over the frequency and watering duration. The device can be set to dispense water in durations from five seconds to six hours.

It also comes with a rain delay system, to help conserve water on rainy days. While it lacks some of the data app-based timers contain, it won’t waste too much water.

The device is simple to use as well. Instead of navigating an app, you simply twist a dial to choose how often you want it to run. AA batteries power the device and they should last a whole year of use.

Instapark manufactured this water timer with durable ABS plastic and contains a non-slip grip as well. It is durable and reliable in the elements. Instapark includes a large LED screen with the system to easily visualize information.

Pros

  • Simple-to-use design with no complicated apps
  • Weather-resistant and durably manufactured
  • The Built-in rain delay system
  • A large swath of customization options

Cons

  • Only compatible with one hose
  • No batteries packaged with the device

Best Timer for Dual Hoses: Orbit Dual Valve Digital Watering Hose Timer – Water Faucet Hose Bib Timer

We like Orbit Dual Valve Digital Watering Hose Timer Water Faucet Hose Bib Timer

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If you have a larger area and need extra coverage from your digital hose timer, this model from Orbit has you covered. It comes standard with two hookups for standard 3/4 inch garden hoses. You can set each hose’s watering schedule to operate independently or in the same way.

The operation is simple, with a LED screen and a dial to change options. Users can set the device to dispense water for up to four hours and set the watering frequency from once every six hours to seven days. This simple usage makes it a good choice for those who do not want to use apps.

Like the Instapark timer, this model also includes a rain delay function. You can set the device to skip watering for between one day to three days. Orbit’s timer also has a manual override feature.

Additionally, Orbit tested the product and determined it handles up to 100 psi of water pressure. 100 psi is far more water pressure than the average home has, and you won’t have to worry about it breaking from doing its job.

Pros

  • Compatible with two hoses out of the box
  • Customization features for watering duration and frequency
  • Can handle high water pressure
  • Rain delay feature

Cons

  • No cover for panel
  • Batteries are not included
  • Only fits standard garden hoses

Best Analog Garden Timer: Raindrip R675CT Analog 3-Dial Water Timer

We like Raindrip R675CT Analog 3-Dial Water Timer

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A simpler approach to a water hose timer, this analog offering from Raindrip is basic but very useful. It does not come with complicated apps or an LED display, just three simple dials to set all your needs.

You can use this device manually with one of the dials. The manual mode includes a rain delay option as well. If you don’t want to use the automatic system, this is a great option.

The other two dials control the run time and watering frequency. You can set the frequency to once every hour to 72 hours. The run time can vary from three minutes to two hours. While the customization options aren’t as extensive as some of the digital options mentioned earlier, they should satisfy most consumers.

Unlike most analog timers, this model does use batteries. The low battery light will shine when it’s time to change them out. Raindrip has created this device to be waterproof and rainproof. Though it’s basic, this model has everything most users could want.

Pros

  • Durable and waterproof design
  • Simple to operate
  • Enough customization options for the average user
  • Rain delay feature

Cons

  • Missing some lavish features of other models
  • No LED display
  • Only compatible with one hose

Best Water Timer for Large Yards: Orbit 56082 3-Outlet Hose Watering Timer, Green

We like Instapark High Precision Electronic Outdoor Garden Hose End Automatic Shut Off Water Timer

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If you want to water a larger area, Orbit offers this water timer with three hose ports. Each port can be set to a different program, giving you options for controlling separate areas as needed.

This device functions similarly to the two-hose model mentioned earlier in this article. It comes with a single dial and an LED display. Twisting the knob changes the option you are configuring, and a keypad handles the adjustments.

This device comes with a rain delay feature and interval programming. You can set the timer to water once every six hours to seven days. It also has a manual watering feature to allow you to alter the watering schedule.

This product is not as weatherproof as other products on this list, so installing it in an area shielded from the elements is recommended. Still, few options are as effective for watering large swathes of land.

Pros

  • Can cover a lot of ground with three hose attachments
  • Each hose is independently customizable
  • Simple to program
  • Rain delay feature

Cons

  • The design is not as durable as others
  • Not as feature-rich as some other models

Best Hose End One-Time Timer: Instapark High Precision Electronic Outdoor Garden Hose End Automatic Shut Off Water Timer

PRODIMG

While not the same as a traditional water timer, this product from Instapark still serves a purpose for gardeners. It does not dispense water with a specific watering schedule but runs water for a set period before shutting off. While you can’t use it to create an entire routine, it is useful for those who want to water a tree without standing there for minutes at a time.

We recommend this product for anyone who has trouble remembering to shut the hose down after use. You can use this timer when you want to save time by doing something else while watering a tree.

It is a simple water timer to use. It only has a dial you turn to the amount of time you want the water to flow freely. When the timer reaches zero, it shuts the water flow down to conserve water.

Of course, this product lacks the features and programmability of other models discussed here. It has practical uses, but it is not a replacement for the other timers on this list.

Pros

  • Simple for anyone to use
  • Useful for watering trees
  • Excellent for those who forget to shut the water down
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • No customization options
  • Will not replace a traditional water hose timer
  • Battery operated with no batteries included

Water Hose Timer Frequently Asked Questions

With so much information, it can be difficult to process. So we will take a look at some of the most common questions purchasers have when looking at water hose timers.

Are all hose timers waterproof?

Most hose timers are waterproof, but not all are. If you plan on placing your system in a place where it will be out in the elements, check the product description and make sure it can stand up to the weather

Do I need to maintain my hose timers?

Most hose timers are simple to maintain after the user has installed them. A quick cleaning every season can do wonders to extend the life of the device. Also make sure they don’t remain outside hooked up in below-freezing conditions – this can damage your hose timer.

How long do hose timers last?

If you take care of the system and protect it from foul weather and accidents, it should last for a few years. Some manufacturers build systems that last longer and come with extended warranty periods to boot.

How do you set water hose timers?

You set them in several different ways. Advanced models might use an app with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to control the system. From there, you can set the watering schedule or check usage rates. Other models will use dials and an LED screen on the timer to use these features. The simplest models have a single dial for usage.

Can you put a garden hose on a timer?

Yes! You can control most timers manually to control how long you use the hose. The Instapark automatic shut-off water timer is perfect for this application.

Do hose timers reduce the water pressure in the rest of the house?

You should only see a loss of water pressure when the hose is actively pumping water. It’s no different than the pressure drop you would have when using a hose normally. When not in use, it shouldn’t affect the water pressure of the rest of the house.

Conclusion: Best Hose Timer

For the most feature-rich water timer, the Orbit 21004 B-hyve Smart Hose Faucet Timer is the best hose timer. An app that provides plenty of automation features and water-usage statistics powers the system. It is a clear winner with regards to options.

For those who don’t want to mess with an app, there are a few runners-up. The Instapark PWT-07 Outdoor Waterproof Digital Timer is durable and will get the job done in any weather, though it does lose out on a few quality-of-life features. 

The Orbit 56082 3-Outlet Hose Watering Timer is great for users with larger yards. It is simple to use and supports three hoses.

A water hose timer should make watering the garden and lawn a much easier experience regardless of the model you purchase.

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