Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (2024)

Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (1)

Table of Contents

Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (2)

About Orbit

The best firm for household irrigation in North America is called Orbit. We provide the most comprehensive ecosystem of solutions for hose faucets, hose, hose-end, underground, drip, mist, and yard protection, with a presence in more than 180 countries across 6 continents. We have led the sector in creative solutions for more than 50 years, amassing more than 100 current patents and several accolades from the business world. using PVC-Lock

Congratulations on selecting your new Orbit timer! With Orbit’s exclusive Easy-Set Logic™, simple programming, and setup are combined with the latest timer technology and versatility.

Your new timer provides convenience and flexibility, letting you run a fully automatic, semi-automatic, or manual watering program for all your watering needs. Although this timer is so easy to program that you likely will not need instructions, we recommend that you read this manual fully before installation so that you understand all of the advanced features.

Get to know your timerOrbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (3)

  1. Lock and latch
  2. Weather Resistant Cover
  3. Dial
  4. Digital Display
  5. Battery Compartment
  6. Swing Door panel
ButtonsFunction
ENTER MANUAlTo confirm a new setting To water manually
CleARTo clear a setting
PRoGRAMTo move to different programs: A, B, and C

ARRoW [ > ]

To skip to the next setting / watering station or move to other programs/settings

ARRoW [ < ]

To go back to the previous setting / watering station or move to other programs/settings
RAiN delAYTo pause operation for 24-72 hours due to rain or other factors
[ + ]To increase a numeric setting
[ – ]To decrease a numeric setting

InstallationOrbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (4)

Required Tools

  • Phillips Screwdriver
  • Wire Strippers

Installation Steps

  • Select a Location
  • Mount the Timer
  • Connect Valve Wires to Timer
  • Connect Electrical Power
  • Activate Battery

Select a Location

When choosing a location for your timer, consider the following:

  • Choose a location near a power source (if hard wiring) or electrical outlet (applicable only to U.S. retail timers)
  • Ensure operating temperatures are not below 32° or above 158° Fahrenheit (below 0° Celsius or above 70°Celsius)
  • Place it away from direct sunlight if possible
  • Ensure at least 9” of space to the left of the sprinkler timer box for the door to swing open after installation
  • Locate the timer where there is easy access to the sprinkler wire (from valves). If mounted in an outdoor location, shut the compartment door to keep the timer safe from weather damage. To lock: insert the key and turn clockwise to the locked positionOrbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (5)

Note: Sprinkler timers are weather-resistant to UL-50 and ETL Listings, but should not be placed in areas where continuous water could cause damage.

Mount the Timer

  • Use the mounting template (included) to mark the mounting screw location on the wall. See figure 1
  • Install a No. 8 screw (included) into the wall in the upper template location. Leave the screw head protruding 1/8” (3mm) from wall. Use expanding anchors (included) in plaster or masonry, if necessary, for a secure hold
  • Slip the timer over protruding screw (using the keyhole slot in the back of the timer). See figure 2
  • Drive a No. 8 screw through one of the two pre-formed holes located in the lower back cabinet. See figure 2Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (6)

Connect Valve Wires to Timer

  • Strip 1/2” (12 mm) of the plastic insulation off the end of each wire for both the timer wires and the valve wires
  • Connect one wire from each valve (it doesn’t matter which wire) to a single “Common” sprinkler wire (usually white)
  • Connect the remaining wire from each valve to a separate colored sprinkler wire

Note: The maximum loading for each station/pump is 250mA, and the maximum loading for the timer is 500mA.
If the distance between the sprinkler timer and valves is under 700’ (210 m), use Orbit sprinkler wire or 20 gauge (AWG) plastic jacketed thermostat wire to connect the sprinkler timer to the valves. If the distance is over 700’ (210 m), use 16 gauge (AWG) wire.Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (7)

Important: All wires should be joined together using wire nuts, solder, and/or vinyl tape. In wet environments like a valve box it is recommended to use Orbit Grease Caps to prevent corrosion of the connection and for protection from water infiltration.

Wiring Electric Valves

  • Strip 1/2” (12 mm) of plastic insulation off the end of each individual wire. Each valve has two wires. One wire (it doesn’t matter which one) is to be connected as the common. The other valve wire is to be connected to the specific station
    wire that will control that valve. The common wires for all the valves can be connected together to one common wire going to the controller. To avoid electrical hazards, only one valve should be connected to each station. See figure 4
  • Important: The wire can be buried in the ground; however, for more protection wires can be pulled through PVC pipe and buried underground. Be careful to avoid burying the wires in locations where they could be damaged by digging or trenching in the future.
  • Your timer is equipped with simple “push-in” terminals for easy connection. Connect a common wire to the common terminal. Connect the remaining wires to corresponding terminal locations.Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (8)

Connect Electrical Power

Indoor Locations – Insert the power cord into a 110V electrical outlet.
Outdoor Locations – If a covered Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) outlet is available, insert the power cord into the 110-volt outlet. If no outlet is available, the timer must have the wiring permanently installed (*see figure 5)

  • Turn off the AC power at the AC circuit breaker and apply an appropriate safety lockout. Verify that the power has been turned off to the installation site using an AC voltmeter set for the correct measurement range.
  • Use a power feed wire of 14 gauge (AWG) minimum with a temperature rating of 155 degrees Fahrenheit (68 degrees Celsius) or higher.
  • Install the conduit and associated fittings. Connect the AC electrical power wiring to the source by following all the right codes and local standards.
  • Connect the junction box to the Timer using a ½” nipple (Junction box and nipple not included). [See Figure 5] Connect the source power conduit to the entrance of the junction box, following all the appropriate codes.
  • Take the cord (running from the timer to the junction box) from the junction box and cut it to length. Remove the outer insulation (from the cord) to expose the three wires.
  • Connect the source wires to the wires extending from the sprinkler timer.
  • For the USA: Take care to follow the correct color code. Connect the Green for Ground, Black for Live, and White for Neutral. Often the source ground may be bare copper conductors rather than green wire.
  • For Europe: Live is Brown and Neutral is Blue, there is no ground connection required. Be sure that all wires are connected to the proper source wire.
  • Make sure all connections are made with code-approved insulated connectors.
  • Be sure to place a weatherproof gasket and lid on the junction box.
  • Turn AC power on at the AC circuit breaker.

Important: Installation Using Permanent Wiring

The sprinkler timer has a built-in transformer that must be connected to an AC line voltage source. Check the back of the sprinkler timer box for power requirements. Local building and electrical codes usually require that an approved electrical conduit and electrical fittings be used to connect exterior wall-mounted equipment to AC power. Please check local codes. Any permanent connection should be made by a licensed electrical contractor in accordance with the requirements of the National Electrical Code and other state and local codes.

This sprinkler timer has two holes at the bottom for wire access. Use a 1/2” Nipple to connect the sprinkler timer to a standard electrical junction box. Both connector and junction box must be UL Listed or equivalent or comply with IEC or EN standards or equivalent.
The wire can be buried in the ground; however, for more protection wires should be pulled through the electrical conduit and buried underground. Be careful to avoid burying the wires in locations where they could be damaged by digging or trenching in the future.

Caution: Do not connect the sprinkler timer to one phase of a three-phase power system used by a pump or other electrical equipment.Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (9)

Note: For outdoor applications, it is recommended that a qualified electrician complete the installation in accordance with electrical codes and regulations. When used outdoors this sprinkler timer is intended for use with a Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) protected circuit.

Activate Battery

One Lithium CR2032 battery (included) is required to retain the program in memory during power loss. Annual replacement is recommended.
Remove the plastic strip to activate the pre-installed battery.Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (10)

(See page 12 for battery replacement)

Note: The battery alone will not operate the valves in your sprinkler system. The sprinkler timer has a built-in transformer that must be connected to an AC voltage source.

Programming with

Easy-Set Logic™

A note about multiple programs
Your sprinkler timer provides the flexibility of using 3 independent programs (A,B,C). A program is where you store all of your sprinkler settings. It consists of a group of stations set to specific start times and run times. Multiple programs allow you to run different valves on different days with different run times. While many applications only require one program (A), using multiple programs can be useful for drip areas, newly planted lawn, or rotary sprinkler stations. Using programs to group stations with similar water needs will maximize irrigation efficiency.
Primary programming can be accomplished in just a few basic steps.

Primary Programming

Press the [RESET] to clear any previous factory programming

  1. Set Clock
    1. Turn dial to [SET CLOCK]
    2. Press the [+/–] buttons to set the current time of day
      Tip: To increase or decrease more rapidly, hold down either the [+] or [-] buttons until the display goes into rapid advance mode.
    3. Press the buttons to set am/pm
    4. Turn dial to accept time
  2. Set Date
    1. Turn dial to [SET DATE]
    2. Y/M/D will appear (blinking letter indicates selection)
    3. Press the [+/–] buttons to set the correct year, then press [ENTER] or [Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (11) ]
    4. Press the [+/–] buttons to set the correct month, then press [ENTER]
    5. Press the [+/–] buttons to set the correct date
    6. Turn dial to accept date
  3. Start time
    1. Turn dial to [START TIME]
    2. Press the [+/–] buttons to select time you’d like your watering to begin (time will adjust in 15 minute increments) The display will showOrbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (12)
      Please note that [START TIME] is the time of day that your programmed watering starts. You can set up to 4 start times. All stations that have a programmed run time (how long) will run in sequence at these times
      Note: Start-Time Stacking
      When a start time is set before the previous program has been completed, that start time will be “stacked” or delayed and will start upon completion of the previous program.
      Example: Bill just planted new grass seed and wants to water it three times per day. He sets START TIME 1 for 5am, START TIME 2 for 12pm, and START TIME 3 for 5 pm.
      He also sets HOW OFTEN to INT (interval) EVERY 1 DAYS (see section 3, HOW OFTEN).
      In AUTO mode the system will water 3 times per day. Once Bill’s sod is established he can CLEAR start times 2 and 3 and return to watering just once per day.
  4. Run Time
    1. Turn the dial to [RUN TIME]Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (13)
      STATION is the area that will be watered by each valve. On this screen the RUN TIME or duration for each station is set.
    2. Press the [Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (14)] to select a station and press the [+/–] buttons to enter the watering duration for that station
    3. Press [ENTER] or the [ Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (15)] buttons to move to the next station/valve, and enter watering duration for each station
  5. How Often
    1. Turn the dial to [HOW OFTEN] – this screen allows you to set how often to water.
      There are 3 options provided:
      1. Days of the week (Mon, Tues, Wed, etc.)
      2. Intervals (Every “X” number of days)
      3. Odd or Even DaysOrbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (16)

Days of the Week

  • Your dial should be set to [HOW OFTEN]
    • Display will show the current program (A,B, or C)
    • Press the [Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (17)] buttons to move from one day to another
    • Press [+] or [ENTER] to select a day for watering. A frame will appear around the selected days.
  • To delete a previously entered day, press [-] or [CLEAR] Example: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday

Intervals

  • Use the [Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (18)] buttons to move to the INTERVAL option “INT”
  • Press [+/–] buttons to select the number of days between watering
    Example: An interval of 1 will water every day; an interval of 3 will water every 3rd day, etc.

Odd or Even Days

  • Use the [ Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (19)] buttons to move to the ODD or EVEN day watering
    • Press [+] or [ENTER]
  • Selecting a different option or pressing clear will erase the previous selection
    Example: Odd: 1st, 3rd, 5th, etc. Example: Even: 2nd, 4th, 6th, etc.
  • Turn the dial to [AUTO] and that’s it!
  • You have programmed your timer!
  • Turn the dial to [AUTO] to activate your program

Note: If your program is lost, the factory-installed fail-safe program will turn on each station every day for 10 minutes
Note: Your prior programming will not be disturbed unless altered. Always be aware of the program you are in (A, B, or C) when you are making changes.

Reviewing and Changing Your Program
If you want to review or change the start times, run times, or how often to water, simply follow the directions again for that option. After reviewing or changing a watering schedule, remember to turn the dial back to [AUTO] for automatic operation.

Reference

TERMDEFINITION
START TiMEThe time the program begins watering the first programmed station .

VAlVE

supplies water to a specific station or area . The opening and closing of the valve is accomplished through electrical current supplied by the sprinkler timer .

MASTER VAlVE

Typically located at the main water source . Turns on and off water for the entire irrigation system when not in use .
MUlTiPlE START TiMesA controller feature that allows a program to be operated multiple times on the same watering day .
OVERlAPPiNG PRoGRAMsWhen a “start Time” is set for a program before the previous program has completed .

PROGRAM (A, B, oR C)

individual programs as set by the user . each program operates independently . if one program overlaps the other the programs will be “stacked .” After the first program finishes the next program will begin .

RAiN DElAY

A feature that postpones the running of a scheduled watering program for a specific duration .
sole NoidThe electrical part on an irrigation valve that opens and closes the valve .
SPRiNklER TiMERA device which instructs the station valves to operate .
STATioNA grouping of sprinklers operated by a single valve which is controlled by the timer .
WATRiNG BUDGETiNGEAdjusts your overall watering program as a percentage of total watering duration .

Troubleshooting

PROBLEMPOSSIBLE CAuSE

one or more valves do not turn on

1 . Faulty solenoid connection
2 . Wire damaged or severed
3 . Flow control stem screwed down, shutting valve off
4 . Programming is incorrect

stations turn on when they are not supposed to

1 . Water pressure is too high
2 . More than one start time is programmed
3 . AM/PM is incorrect

one station is stuck on and will not shut off

1 . Faulty valve
2 . Particles of dirt or debris stuck in valve
3 . Valve diaphragm faulty

All valves do not turn on

1 . Transformer defective or not connected
2 . Programming is incorrect
Timer will not power up1 . Transformer not plugged into a working outlet
Valves continue to turn on and off when they are not programmed1 . More than one start time is programmed with overlapping schedules
2 . excessive pressure

HELP
1-800-488-6156 or 1-801-299-5555
www.orbitonline.com
Before returning this sprinkler timer to the store, contact Orbit Technical Service at 1-800-488-6156, 1-801-299-5555 Listings

LISTINGS

  • The sprinkler timer is tested to UL-50 standard & is ETL listed.
  • Appropriate international models are CSA and CE-approved.
  • This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
  • Disconnection: Type 1Y

Normal Pollution Situation.
The supply cord of this control can be replaced only by the manufacturer or his accredited service agent.

TRADEMARK NOTICE

WaterMaster is a registered trademark of Orbit Irrigation Products, Inc. The information in this manual is primarily intended for the user who will establish a watering schedule and enter that schedule into the sprinkler timer. This product is intended to be used as an automatic sprinkler timer for activating 24 VAC irrigation valves, as described in this manual.

WARRANTY AND STATEMENT

  • Orbit Irrigation Products, Inc. warrants to its customers that its products will be free from defects in materials and workman-ship for a period of six years from the date of purchase.
  • We will replace, free of charge, the defective part or parts found to be defective under normal use and service for a period of up to six years after purchase (proof of purchase required).
  • We reserve the right to inspect the defective part prior to replacement.
  • Orbit Irrigation Products, Inc. will not be responsible for consequential or incidental cost or damage caused by the product failure. Orbit liability under this warranty is limited solely to the replacement or repair of defective parts.
  • To exercise your warranty, return the unit to your dealer with a copy of the sales receipt.
  • This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation
    is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
  • Warning: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
  • NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part
    15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
  • If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
    • Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
    • Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
    • Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
    • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Caution: This appliance is not intended for use by young children or infirm persons without supervision. Young children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.

FAQs Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer

How durable are orbit sprinkler timers?

To replace the timer I bought three years ago, I ordered this one. Every other day, I used it to water the plants around my house. It is powered by two AA batteries, which can be easily changed, and last for about six months.

Why do the sprinklers in my orbit turn on twice?

Each program has multiple Daily Start Times that have been set. The program will launch at the specified time and run through each of the zones assigned to it sequentially.

How is an orbit timer troubleshooting?

To make sure the timer is correctly plugged in, check the connection to the docking port. Try taking the timer out and putting it back in after pressing down until you hear a click. If you’re still not getting electricity, there may be a problem with the timer.

What is the ideal sprinkler system schedule?

Early in the morning is the greatest time to water your grass because the temperature is cooler and the wind is usually calmer, allowing the roots to absorb the water before it evaporates. It is preferable to water between 4 and 6 p.m. rather than during the day or in the early afternoon if you cannot water in the morning for some reason.

What causes sprinklers to stop turning?

The buildup of junk in the filter is the most frequent cause of a sprinkler ceasing to rotate.

How long should each zone’s sprinklers run for?

Completely wet: Spray zones should run for 10 to 15 minutes per zone, whereas rotor zones should run for 30 to 40 minutes per zone.

Has the orbit timer a fuse?

It will keep your timer functioning as expected for some time because it is made of durable materials. contains 2 fuses.

Can two sprinkler zones operate simultaneously?

Due to restrictions on water pressure and flow at residential properties, running numerous zones simultaneously is typically not practicable. You can connect a number of solenoids or valves to the same zone output, just like with any other irrigation controller that is conventional.

What causes automated sprinkler systems to malfunction frequently?

The primary culprit is rusting, by far. An internal or exterior corrosion process might permanently bond a water seal to the frame. For this reason, NFPA 25 also mandates that you repair any sprinklers that exhibit performance-harming corrosion during the floor-level inspection.

Why does the pressure in my sprinklers drop after a while?

A leak in the zone’s lines or a leak at one or more nozzles is frequently to blame when your sprinkler system was functioning normally when one zone started to lose water pressure. Water pressure won’t be as high from leaking nozzles, which requires an easy replacement.

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Orbit 57894 sprinkler timer User Manual - ManualsDock (2024)

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