melnor 3100 dual zone timer help

17 years ago

Below is a long description of a simple issue.

I am having a problem programming my Melnor model 3100 two zone timers. One would think that the instructions would be clear, or at least I could figure it out.

First, is there a 12hr or 24hr delay between activating the timer and the first watering cycle. I want to water cycle to begin everyday at 8pm (zone 1) and 10pm (zone 2). In other words, without using the delay button, when will the first cycle occur? Is the first watering cycle tied to frequency (e.g., 12, 24, 36, 72 hrs...)

In the end, I want to water at 8pm and 10pm once a day (e.g., only in the evening) on two units. With the third unit, at 7pm and 9m, once a day only in the evening.

Thanks for the help.

Charlie

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Comments (3)

lehua49
17 years ago
Charlie,

From what I read about your time, your are asking to much from your timer. That timer is just a splitter for your hose bib that gives you two independent zones(#1). The Timer only gives you control over frequency and duration. What ever frequency you set, the Timer will delay that amount of time before it first comes on and then comes on that frequency thereafter (not very flexible). Let's say you wanted to water every night at 8:00 pm. You would set the frequency to 24 and start the Timer at 8:00 pm. It would come on 24 hours later at 8:00 pm the next night and start coming on every 24 hour for eternity(or until battery failure). If you wanted the same zone to come on at 10:00 pm as well, then interconnect#1 & #2 Timer outlets and set the #2 Frequency for 24 and turn it on at 10:pm. It will do what #1 side does except at 10:00 pm every 24 hours.

If you want to do this for another zone you have to buy a second Timer splitter and buy a regular splitter. So you would have a Y fitting with two Timer splitters on each branch. Hope this helped but probably not. JMHO.

Are you interested in finding out how to set a more flexible system. People here will help. Aloha
charlierubin
Original Author
17 years ago
Thanks. I did not understand, if I set the timer to 24r frequency, it would first activate 24 hrs later. Apparently, the dual zone timer gives the option to delay timing for each of the two zones. Since the timer has two bib outlets, I am somewhat sure that I can independently set the time on each timer. A more flexible system would be great! Should I post a question on the forum! Thanks Charlie
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lehua49
17 years ago
Charlie,

Post a forum question " Does anyone know of any reliable battery powered irrigation controllers with multiple set times with different durations for more than one zone?". That is you most flexible controller/Timer.

or you can do google research on your own. Check the major irrigation supplies manufacturers. Ask the forum for brands that people find better than others. Aloha