rain bird sst-900i manual

Rain Bird SST-900i Manual: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to your ultimate resource for mastering the Rain Bird SST-900i sprinkler timer! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every aspect, from initial setup and programming to troubleshooting common issues. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or new to irrigation systems, this manual provides the knowledge to optimize your lawn’s watering schedule.

The Rain Bird SST-900i is a user-friendly sprinkler timer designed to simplify your lawn and garden irrigation. This indoor-mounted timer offers intuitive zone-by-zone scheduling, allowing you to customize watering times for different areas of your yard, promoting greener results while conserving water. The SST-900i is compatible with most irrigation valve models that use 24 VAC, ensuring broad compatibility with existing systems.

With its simple-to-set interface, even novice users can quickly grasp the programming process. The timer’s features include one-touch seasonal adjustments, enabling you to easily increase watering during hot, dry months and reduce it during rainy periods; A convenient rain delay feature suspends watering for up to 72 hours, automatically resuming your programmed schedule once the delay ends.

The SST-900i boasts superior surge protection for long-lasting durability and supports a master valve or pump start relay, as well as a rain sensor for enhanced water conservation. Its intuitive design and comprehensive features make it an ideal choice for homeowners seeking a reliable and easy-to-use sprinkler timer.

Key Features and Benefits of the SST-900i

The Rain Bird SST-900i sprinkler timer offers a range of features and benefits designed to simplify lawn and garden irrigation. Its key feature is zone-by-zone setting, which provides the flexibility to customize watering schedules for each area of your yard, catering to the specific needs of different plant types and soil conditions. This targeted watering approach promotes healthier plant growth while minimizing water waste.

The SST-900i’s one-touch seasonal adjustments make it easy to adapt your watering schedule to changing weather conditions. During hot, dry months, you can quickly increase watering durations, while rainy periods allow for reducing watering to conserve water. The rain delay feature further enhances water conservation by suspending watering for up to 72 hours when rainfall is detected, preventing overwatering and promoting responsible water usage.

Durability is another key benefit of the SST-900i, with superior surge protection ensuring long-lasting performance. The timer supports a master valve or pump start relay and a rain sensor, offering enhanced control and automation of your irrigation system. Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features make the SST-900i a valuable tool for maintaining a healthy and vibrant landscape.

Installation Guide

Before commencing the installation, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials, including the Rain Bird SST-900i timer, a screwdriver, wire strippers, and appropriate wiring for your valve system. Choose a suitable location for the timer, ideally indoors in a garage, shed, or protected area, shielded from direct sunlight and extreme weather conditions.

Begin by mounting the timer securely on a wall using the provided mounting hardware. Ensure the timer is level and easily accessible for programming and maintenance. Next, prepare the wiring by stripping the ends of the wires that will connect to the valves and the power supply. Carefully connect the wires to the corresponding terminals on the timer, following the wiring diagram provided in the manual.

Pay close attention to the polarity of the power supply wires, ensuring they are connected correctly to avoid damaging the timer. Once all the wiring is complete, double-check each connection to ensure it is secure and properly insulated. Finally, connect the power supply to a suitable power outlet and turn on the timer. The display should light up, indicating that the timer is receiving power.

Connecting the Power Supply

The Rain Bird SST-900i requires a 24 VAC (Volts Alternating Current) power supply to operate. Before connecting the power, ensure that the power supply is unplugged from the main power outlet. Locate the two terminals on the SST-900i labeled for power input; they’re generally marked with “24VAC” or similar notation.

Using appropriate gauge wiring, connect the wires from the 24 VAC power supply to these terminals. It’s crucial to ensure a secure connection, as loose wiring can lead to intermittent operation or even damage to the unit. Once the wires are connected, gently tug on them to verify they are firmly in place. If using stranded wire, make sure no stray strands are protruding, as these could cause a short circuit.

After confirming the wiring is secure, plug the power supply into a standard electrical outlet. The SST-900i’s display should illuminate, indicating that it’s receiving power. If the display does not light up, double-check the wiring connections and verify that the power outlet is functioning correctly. Remember, superior surge protection ensures longevity even with power fluctuations, enhancing the timer’s durability.

Wiring the Valves

Connecting your irrigation valves to the Rain Bird SST-900i is a crucial step in setting up your automated watering system. Each valve corresponds to a specific zone in your yard. Begin by identifying the common wire from all your valves; this wire is typically white. Connect this common wire to the terminal on the SST-900i labeled “Common” or “COM.”

Next, connect each individual valve wire to its respective zone terminal on the SST-900i. The zone terminals are usually numbered (e.g., Zone 1, Zone 2, etc.). Ensure that you know which valve controls which zone in your yard to avoid confusion during programming. Securely tighten each terminal screw to ensure a solid connection. A loose connection can prevent the valve from opening or closing properly.

After wiring all the valves, test each zone to confirm that the valves are functioning correctly. Turn the dial on the SST-900i to the “Manual” setting and select each zone one by one. Observe whether the corresponding valve opens and water flows to that zone. If a valve doesn’t activate, double-check the wiring connections at both the timer and the valve itself. Remember, the SST-900i works with most 24 VAC irrigation valves.

Rain Sensor Connection

Integrating a rain sensor with your Rain Bird SST-900i allows for smart watering by automatically suspending irrigation when it rains. This prevents overwatering and conserves water. To connect a rain sensor, first locate the rain sensor terminals on the SST-900i. These terminals are usually labeled “Rain Sensor” or “Sensor.”

Before connecting the rain sensor wires, you’ll likely find a jumper wire connecting the two rain sensor terminals. Remove this jumper wire; it’s there to complete the circuit when a rain sensor isn’t installed. Now, connect the two wires from your rain sensor to the rain sensor terminals on the SST-900i. The order of the wires typically doesn’t matter, but consult your rain sensor’s manual for specific instructions.

Once the rain sensor is connected, test its functionality. Simulate rainfall by manually triggering the rain sensor (usually by pressing a button or tilting it to collect water). The SST-900i should automatically suspend watering. You may see an indicator on the timer display confirming that the rain sensor has been activated. If the system doesn’t suspend watering, double-check the wiring connections and ensure that the rain sensor is functioning correctly. The SST-900i supports most standard rain sensors, providing a valuable feature for water conservation.

Programming the SST-900i

The Rain Bird SST-900i simplifies irrigation scheduling with its intuitive dial-based programming. To begin, turn the dial to the “Set Date” position. Use the “+” and “-” buttons to set the current date, ensuring accurate scheduling. Next, turn the dial to “Start Time.” This sets the time of day when your watering cycles will begin. Again, use the “+” and “-” buttons to adjust the desired start time.

The SST-900i allows for independent programming of each zone, providing customized watering for different areas of your yard. Turn the dial to the first zone you wish to program (e.g., “Zone 1”). Set the watering duration for that zone using the “+” and “-” buttons. Then, select the watering frequency. You can choose specific days of the week, or set intervals like every other day.

Repeat this process for each zone, customizing the watering duration and frequency to meet the specific needs of your plants. The SST-900i stores all settings in permanent memory, so you don’t have to worry about losing your programming during a power outage. The built-in troubleshooting cycle helps identify valve and wiring issues, simplifying maintenance. Once programmed, your SST-900i will automatically manage your irrigation schedule, ensuring your lawn and garden receive the right amount of water.

Setting Zone-by-Zone Schedules

The Rain Bird SST-900i excels at providing tailored watering schedules through its intuitive zone-by-zone programming. This feature allows you to customize watering durations and frequencies for each specific area of your yard, catering to the unique needs of different plant types and soil conditions. To begin, rotate the dial to the desired zone number, for example, “Zone 1.”

Once the zone is selected, use the “+” and “-” buttons to set the watering duration. Consider factors like plant type, sun exposure, and soil drainage when determining the appropriate watering time. Next, establish the watering frequency. The SST-900i offers flexible scheduling options, allowing you to choose specific days of the week or set intervals like every other day or every third day.

Repeat this process for each zone, carefully considering the individual requirements of each area. For instance, a sunny flower bed may require more frequent and longer watering durations than a shaded shrub area. This level of customization ensures efficient water usage and promotes healthy plant growth. With zone-by-zone scheduling, the SST-900i empowers you to create a precise and effective irrigation plan for your entire landscape.

Seasonal Adjustments

The Rain Bird SST-900i simplifies adapting your watering schedule to changing weather conditions with its user-friendly seasonal adjustment feature. This function allows you to increase or decrease watering times across all zones proportionally, ensuring your landscape receives the optimal amount of water throughout the year.

During hot, dry months, you can easily increase the watering percentage to compensate for increased evaporation and plant water demands. Conversely, in rainy periods, you can reduce the watering percentage to prevent overwatering and potential root rot. This proactive approach helps conserve water and promotes healthier plant growth.

To make a seasonal adjustment, locate the seasonal adjustment button or dial on the SST-900i. Use the “+” and “-” buttons to increase or decrease the watering percentage as needed. A setting of 100% represents your originally programmed watering times, while a setting of 120% increases watering times by 20%, and a setting of 80% reduces them by 20%. Regularly monitor weather conditions and plant health to fine-tune seasonal adjustments for optimal results. This adaptive feature ensures efficient water use and a thriving landscape, regardless of the season.

Utilizing the Rain Delay Feature

The Rain Bird SST-900i’s rain delay feature is a valuable tool for conserving water and preventing overwatering during periods of rainfall. This function temporarily suspends your programmed watering schedule, allowing you to avoid unnecessary irrigation when nature provides sufficient moisture.

Activating the rain delay is simple. Locate the rain delay button on the timer’s control panel. Press the button to initiate the delay. The SST-900i typically allows you to set the delay for a specific duration, often up to 72 hours. Once the rain delay is active, the timer will display the remaining delay time.

During the rain delay period, your sprinklers will not operate, effectively pausing your watering schedule. After the set delay time has elapsed, the SST-900i will automatically resume your regular programming. This ensures that your lawn receives the necessary water once the rain has stopped. Regularly monitor weather forecasts and use the rain delay feature strategically to minimize water waste and maintain a healthy landscape. It’s an eco-friendly way to manage your irrigation system.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper installation and programming, occasional issues may arise with your Rain Bird SST-900i. This section provides guidance on troubleshooting common problems to help you quickly restore your irrigation system’s functionality;

Problem: Sprinklers not turning on. First, verify that the timer is receiving power. Check the power cord and outlet. Next, ensure that the zone valve wiring is securely connected to the timer. Test the valve by manually opening it. If the valve still doesn’t work, it might need replacement. Also, confirm that the rain sensor is not activated, as it can override the watering schedule.

Problem: Incorrect watering schedule. Double-check your zone-by-zone programming to ensure the correct start times, durations, and watering days are set. Reset the timer to factory settings if needed and reprogram.

Problem: Erratic behavior. Power surges can cause erratic behavior. The SST-900i has surge protection, but extreme events can still affect its operation. Try resetting the timer. If problems persist, contact Rain Bird support for assistance.

Accessing the User Manual and Support Resources

To ensure you have the most up-to-date information and assistance, Rain Bird offers several resources for the SST-900i sprinkler timer. Accessing the user manual and other support materials can help you maximize your timer’s potential and resolve any issues you may encounter.

User Manual: The complete user manual is available for free download on the Rain Bird website. Search for “Rain Bird SST-900i manual” to find the PDF version. The manual includes detailed instructions on installation, programming, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

Online Support Center: The Rain Bird Support Center is a comprehensive online resource offering FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and videos. You can find answers to common questions and solutions to typical problems related to the SST-900i.

Technical Support: If you require further assistance, Rain Bird’s technical support team is available by phone. Contact them for personalized help with installation, programming, or troubleshooting. Their expertise can guide you through complex issues and ensure your timer operates efficiently. Their phone number is (866) GSP-XPRT (477-9778).

The Rain Bird SST-900i sprinkler timer offers a user-friendly solution for managing your irrigation system efficiently. By following this comprehensive guide and utilizing the available support resources, you can effectively program and maintain your timer for optimal performance. The SST-900i’s zone-by-zone scheduling, seasonal adjustments, and rain delay features provide the flexibility needed to customize watering based on your specific landscaping needs and local weather conditions.

Remember to regularly review your watering schedules and make adjustments as necessary to conserve water and promote healthy plant growth. With proper installation, programming, and maintenance, the Rain Bird SST-900i will provide years of reliable service.

By taking advantage of the Rain Bird support center and user manual, you can easily troubleshoot any issues that may arise. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or new to irrigation systems, the Rain Bird SST-900i empowers you to create a thriving and sustainable landscape with ease. This concludes our comprehensive guide; happy watering!