The 9 Best Automatic Hose Timers of 2023
Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.
Forget to water your garden? Put an automatic hose timer in charge
The Spruce / Brian Kopinski
Reviewed by Barbara Gillette
Automatic hose timers can help you water your lawn or garden when you are away or occupied, plus they eliminate the hassle of having to do it manually. These nifty tools allow you to set up a customized watering schedule, ensuring that your gardens and lawns stay perfectly hydrated. Some models even have additional features, such as a rain delay function and automatic shutoff, that can help you save water. “Hose timers are easy to install and set up, and some can even be controlled from your phone,” says Liz Will, a master gardener, garden coach, and author of the blog Learn To Grow Gardens. They’re great for everyday use, and even better for vacations and time away from home.
Whether you choose a hose timer with highly programmable features or a basic analog option, you’ll want to pick the product that best suits your watering needs. We spent hours researching the best hose timers on the market, evaluating products based on their programmability, ease of use, additional features, and overall performance. Here are the top-rated hose timers in a variety of categories to keep your lawn and garden in tip-top shape.
Best Overall: Melnor 65035 AquaTimer 2-Zone Digital Water Timer
What We Like
Simple operation
Large, easy-to-read digital display
Rain delay function and manual override
Zones can be programmed individually
What We Don’t Like
Water flow is not adjustable per zone
Pricier than other dual-zone options
The Melnor AquaTimer earns the top spot in our roundup thanks to its dual-zone design and ease of operation. We love that the two independently controlled valves allow you to create a customized watering schedule for each zone, with plenty of flexibility: You can choose a watering duration between 1 minute and 6 hours, and you can water as often as every hour, multiple times per day, or as little as once a week. The two-zone capability comes in handy when you have a lawn that might have a sunny area that needs to be watered longer than a shady spot or a large garden that has different watering needs.
This unit runs on two AA batteries (not included) and has a large LCD screen that’s easy to read. When it comes to programming, users find the Melnor AquaTimer to be a lot more intuitive than other models. You can easily scroll through the functions and set specific schedules. Other noteworthy features include a rain-delay function, which allows you to pause the watering schedule for up to seven days. The timer also has a manual override that allows you to water at any time.
One potential downside to this otherwise performer is that water pressure is not adjustable per zone. If it’s at full blast in one zone, it will be equally forceful in the other. Overall, it’s still an excellent option for watering multiple areas or a larger yard (as long as you don’t mind the same amount of pressure per zone). The Melnor AquaTimer also comes in a one- or four-zone version to suit a variety of needs.
Price at time of publish: $69
Dimensions: 2.44 x 5.19 x 5.11 inches | Zones: 2 | Faucet Size: Not listed | Programmability: Start time, frequency, run time | Rain Delay: Yes | Smart Features: No | Power Source: Battery
Best Budget: Orbit Mechanical Water Timer
This mechanical timer works like a kitchen timer—you start it manually, and it runs for the set time.
What We Like
Very affordable
Easy to use
Shuts water off automatically
No batteries required
What We Don't Like
Strictly manual operation
Mixed reviews on durability
The Orbit 62034 Mechanical Watering Hose Timer is a budget-friendly option that is very easy to use. Though it lacks any of the advanced features you'll find on pricier models, it gets the job done. This unit works like an egg timer—it needs to be started manually, and it will shut the water off when it's done. There is one dial to adjust the watering duration from 15 to 120 minutes. The oversized dial is easy to read and comfortable to grip.
Despite the rather rudimentary design, this timer has its benefits. It requires no batteries and, thanks to a manual watering feature, you can use your hose for other tasks without having to remove the timer. Unlike programmable models that require some setup time, you can start using this unit immediately.
The Orbit 62034 is made of high-impact plastic, which seems to be fairly durable on the whole—though not quite as durable as brass. However, we read a few reports that say the timer cracked or stopped working within a short period of time. Luckily, this unit is very reasonably priced, so it's not a big expense if you need to replace it every season or two.
Price at time of publish: $15
Dimensions: 4.5 x 2.5 x 3.25 inches | Zones: 1 | Faucet Size: 0.75 inch | Programmability: Manually set run time | Rain Delay: No | Smart Features: No | Power Source: Mechanical
Best Splurge: Netro Pixie Smart Hose Faucet Timer
Thanks to a solar panel built into the side, this timer requires no batteries, and it connects to your smartphone for scheduling.
What We Like
Smart functionality
Solar powered
Adjusts watering schedules based on forecast
EPA WaterSense certified
What We Don't Like
Pricer than other options
Some reports of faulty solar panels
The Netro Pixie Smart Hose Faucet Timer offers advanced technology that makes it worthy of its steep price tag. This single-hose timer has smart capabilities, so you can create custom watering schedules and monitor water usage right from your smartphone. The app takes weather forecasting into account and will adjust the watering schedule based on the conditions in your area. You can further tailor the schedule to comply with local watering rules and restrictions. Thanks to all these smart abilities, this timer can help you save water—and it’s certified by the EPA’s WaterSense program.
Unlike most other hose timers, the Pixie Faucet Timer is solar powered, and most users find that a few hours of sunlight per day keeps it adequately charged. That said, we read a few reports that say the solar panel is ineffective. This unit is easy to install on any standard 0.75-inch faucet and features a metal thread and filter for optimal durability. For added convenience, it’s compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT, so you can integrate it into your smart-home system. It’s important to note that if you don’t have a reliable Internet connection, you run the risk of missed watering cycles.
Price at time of publish: $120
Dimensions: 6.5 x 4.3 x 1.9 inches | Zones: 1 | Faucet Size: 0.75 inch | Programmability: Start time, frequency, run time | Rain Delay: Yes | Smart Features: Yes | Power Source: Solar
What Does IFTTT Mean?
IFTTT, shorthand for "If This Then That," is technology designed to integrate apps, devices, and services. It is offered by a company called IFTTT.com, which creates applets to facilitate device integration.
Best Wi-Fi: Orbit 21004 B-hyve Smart Hose Faucet Timer
You can control this timer from virtually anywhere, as it syncs up to your smartphone through Wi-Fi.
What We Like
Smart capabilities
Easy to install
Automatically adjusts watering based on local conditions
EPA WaterSense certified
What We Don't Like
Some reports of connectivity issues
Problems using multiple timers
The Orbit 21004 B-hyve Smart Hose Faucet Timer connects to your phone via Wi-Fi, allowing you to create highly customized watering schedules for your garden. The single-hose timer's technology provides watering recommendations based on factors such as slope, soil type, sun/shade conditions, and historical weather data. It also takes into account live weather forecasts, ensuring your plants aren’t over or under-watered. Thanks to these smart abilities, the B-hyve Timer can help you to save water—it’s even certified by the EPA’s WaterSense program.
The app is fully functional on any Android, iOS, or web device, and most users find it easy to install. The included Wi-Fi hub needs to be plugged into an indoor electrical outlet. Just note that we read some reports of connectivity issues, which may result in missed watering—keep that in mind if you have spotty Wi-Fi. The hose timer runs on two AA batteries (not included), and it connects to any standard 0.75-inch garden hose and features a durable brass connection. This system can be expanded with additional timers, but some users encounter problems when attempting to do so.
Price at time of publish: $128
Dimensions: 2.9 x 6.44 x 8.7 inches | Zones: 1 | Faucet Size: 0.75 inch | Programmability: Start time, frequency, run time | Rain Delay: Yes | Smart Features: Yes | Power Source: Battery
The 7 Best Hose Nozzles of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best Multi-Zone: Melnor 73280 Digital Water Electronic Hose Timer
You can water up to four different areas with this digital hose timer, and its angled valves make it easier to connect hoses.
What We Like
Set up to 4 cycles per day
Rain delay mode to prevent over-watering
Angled valves for easy hose attachment
7-year warranty
What We Don't Like
Complex programming
No smart features
Some reports of defects and early breakdowns
The Melnor 73280 Digital Hose Timer has a slew of programmable features that set it apart from the competition. It allows you to water up to four different zones, making it an ideal choice for large gardens or yards. What’s more, you can customize each zone, and schedule up to four cycles per day. You can also program individual start times on specific days of the week, or at designated intervals. In the manual setting, you can use the hose whenever you choose—regardless of the scheduled watering times. Another convenient feature is the rain delay mode, which allows you to stop watering for up to seven days—preventing over-watering as well as unnecessary waste.
This timer has a large, digital interface that is easy to read. With so many settings, it’s no surprise that there is a learning curve. Some users say this multi-zone timer is tricky to figure out at first. This unit requires two AA batteries for operation, which are not included. You can attach a variety of tools to this timer, including a sprinkler, soaker hose, or pulsator. Two of its four high-flow valves are angled, which makes it easier to screw on hoses. If water conservation is a priority, you can purchase a soil moisture sensor from the manufacturer at an additional cost. We read some reports of defects and early breakdowns, however, this product is backed by a seven-year warranty to protect your investment.
Price at time of publish: $63
Dimensions: 5.7 x 8.26 x 2.67 inches | Zones: 4 | Faucet Size: Not listed | Programmability: Start time, frequency, run time | Rain Delay: Yes | Smart Features: No | Power Source: Battery
Best Dual Zone: Gilmour Dual Outlet Electronic Water Timer
You can program two zones individually with this reasonably priced digital timer.
What We Like
Reasonably priced
Zones can be programmed individually
Automatic low-battery shutoff
Metal coupling
What We Don't Like
May cause water hammer effect
Rain-delay function is not intuitive
With the Gilmour Dual Outlet Electronic Water Timer, you can keep two hoses on separate watering schedules. This is a great option if you need to water more than a single zone. Thanks to a dual-zone, you can connect two hoses to bottom outlets simultaneously, and program the start time, frequency, and duration of watering for each zone. This timer is easy to operate thanks to a rotary dial on the front and a large LCD screen. You can choose a watering duration between 1 and 360 minutes, and you can set the rain delay function for 24, 48, or 72 hours. According to users, the rain-delay function is tricky to figure out, so be sure to read the fine print in the owner’s manual.
This unit is made of high-impact plastic, and durable metal coupling allows you to pull the hose around the yard without damaging the timer. It runs off two AA batteries, and it will shut the water off automatically if the batteries are running low. Several users report a water hammer effect when the hose shuts off, but it isn’t a common occurrence. If you happen to encounter this problem, you could install a water hammer arrestor to correct it.
Price at time of publish: $42
Dimensions: 2.5 x 6.5 x 5 inches | Zones: 2 | Faucet Size: Not listed | Programmability: Start time, frequency, run time | Rain Delay: Yes | Smart Features: No | Power Source: Battery
Best Analog: Raindrip R675CT Analog 3-Dial Water Timer
No need to mess around with digital menus—this timer is controlled by three simple dials.
What We Like
Simple programming
Three easy-to-use control dials
Rain delay function and manual override
Low-battery indicator light
What We Don't Like
No start time setting
Instructions are lacking
The Raindrip R675CT Analog 3-Dial Water Timer offers a basic design that’s easy to program–and you don’t have to worry about navigating through digital menus. All you need to do is turn one of the three rotary dials on the front to set the frequency, run time, and override the programmed schedule for a rain delay. You can also manually water at any time without disrupting the programmed schedule. You can set the watering duration from 3 to 90 minutes at preset intervals, and the frequency is adjustable from 1 hour to 1 week.
A major downside to this hose timer, however, is that it doesn’t have a start time setting. You have to start the cycle manually, then the timer will restart depending on the programmed schedule. This unit runs on two AA batteries, and a battery-operated timer indicates when batteries are running low. To prevent water waste, the valve will shut off automatically when the batteries run out. Some users complain that the instructions are lacking, but luckily this analog hose time is simple enough that the operation is intuitive.
Price at time of publish: $47
Dimensions: 3 x 6 x 10.7 inches | Zones: 1 | Faucet Size: 0.75 inch | Programmability: Frequency, run time | Rain Delay: Yes | Smart Features: No | Power Source: Battery
Best Digital: Chapin 1-Zone Water Timer with Digital Display
This timer is easy to program thanks to its digital display, which has a protective cover for longevity.
What We Like
Easy to program
Protective cover
Highly customizable watering duration and frequency
Available in a dual zone version
What We Don't Like
Not waterproof
Some reports of battery connectivity issues
The Chapin Water Timer has a convenient digital display, allowing you to control the start time, watering frequency, and watering duration with extreme precision. Plus, it’s easy to program using the dial on the front. The Chapin attaches to any 0.75-inch outdoor faucet, and it runs on two AA batteries (not included). This particular model is designed to control one hose, but the same model is available in a dual-zone version.
Another convenient feature is a rain delay option, which can be set to 24, 48, or 72 hours to prevent overwatering. It also has a protective cover that shields the display from water, dust, UV rays, and other damaging elements. However, it’s important to note that this timer is weather-resistant, rather than waterproof, so it’s best to install it in a sheltered area, if possible. Also, note that we did read some reports of battery connectivity issues, which occasionally cause the timer to malfunction. Despite a few flaws, the Chapin Water Timer is an affordable and effective solution for smaller areas.
Price at time of publish: $22
Dimensions: 4.75 x 3.0 x 6.5 inches | Zones: 1 | Faucet Size: 0.75 inch | Programmability: Start time, frequency, run time | Rain Delay: Yes | Smart Features: No | Power Source: Battery
The 12 Best Soaker Hoses of 2023
Best Single Zone: Instapark PWT-07 Outdoor Waterproof Digital Hose Timer
This digital timer has a large, easy-to-read screen, and a waterproof cover that can withstand the elements.
What We Like
Versatile watering frequency and duration settings
Easy-to-read LED display
Waterproof design and protective cover
Built-in rain delay and manual control
What We Don't Like
Plastic connections are less durable than brass
Not ideal for larger yards
If you have a fairly small lawn that doesn’t require multiple watering zones, the Instapark Digital Hose Timer is a solid choice. It connects to any standard 0.75-inch hose faucet, and it features a large, easy-to-read digital display. The Instapark Timer offers a nice selection of programmable features, and it utilizes a 24-hour time display format (commonly referred to as “military time”). Using the rotary dial, you can set the watering duration between 1 and 360 minutes. It can also be programmed to water once every 1, 2, 3, or 7 days—or as frequently as every 10 seconds.
Other convenient features include a manual option for on-demand watering and a rain delay function that disables the timer for 24, 48, or 72 hours. This timer runs on two AA batteries (not included), which can last for up to a year without needing replacements. Heavy-duty plastic construction, plus a flip-down cover, helps to protect the timer from inclement weather and impacts. However, users say the plastic connections aren’t the most durable, so be sure to use caution during installation.
Price at time of publish: $30
Dimensions: 6 x 4.25 x 2.6 inches | Zones: 1 | Faucet Size: 0.75 inch | Programmability: Start time, frequency, run time | Rain Delay: Yes | Smart Features: No | Power Source: 2 AA batteries
Final Verdict
The Melnor 65035 AquaTimer 2-Zone Digital Water Timer is our top pick because it offers a user-friendly design and dual watering zones that can be programmed individually. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider the Orbit 62034 Mechanical Watering Hose Timer. Its simple design requires no programming or batteries—you turn it on manually, and it runs for a set time before shutting off.
What to Look for in an Automatic Hose Timer
PSI of Water Source
Automatic hose timers require an ideal water pressure range—measured as pounds per square inch (PSI)—in order to operate efficiently. Most hose timers intended for residential use should be compatible with your home’s water-delivery system. To be on the safe side, you can refer to the product specifications to confirm your faucet’s water pressure falls within the recommended range–otherwise, the timer may not work properly. Most timers require a minimum operating range of 5 to 15 PSI. Our Best Splurge pick, the Netro Pixie Smart Hose Faucet Timer, is capable of operating at a much lower water pressure pressure PSI–from 3 to 116 PSI.
Water and Rust Resistance
Since they are intended to be left outdoors, most hose timers offer a fair amount of water-resistance. While few hose timers are entirely waterproof, they can resist damage from rain, wind, sprinklers, hoses, and other watering tools. In addition to being more durable than most plastic pieces, brass connections are not susceptible to rust—which is a major plus. Our Best Wi-Fi pick, the Orbit 21004 B-hyve Smart Hose Faucet Timer, features a brass faucet connector (overlaid with plastic) for added durability.
Programmability
Most automatic hose timers offer at least a few programmable settings. Standard settings include the start time (when the hose turns on to begin watering) as well as the watering duration or runtime, which determines how long the water is on. On most models, you can also adjust the watering frequency, or how often it waters (for instance, every six hours, every day, twice per week, etc.). Our Best Overall pick, the Melnor 65035 AquaTimer 2-Zone Digital Water Timer, is simple to program thanks to a large digital display and intuitive menu.
Zones
Some hose timers allow you to connect two or more hoses, dividing your yard into separate watering zones. You can then customize the watering schedule for each zone. A dual-zone timer is ideal for differing watering needs—such as a yard where part of the lawn is in the shade, and the rest receives direct sunlight. A multi-zone hose timer will give you even more flexibility, allowing you to control multiple watering zones with one device. Our top pick in this category, the Melnor Digital Water Electronic Hose Timer, can water up to four different zones, making it ideal for large gardens or yards.
Standout Features
Connectivity - Wi-fi, Bluetooth
Some automatic hose timers are Wi-Fi or Bluetooth enabled, allowing you to control the timer remotely with a compatible smart device. With a Wi-Fi connection, you can make sure your lawn and garden stay watered—even if you’re away from home. Bluetooth technology, on the other hand, usually requires that the smart device be within 150 feet of the timer. Our Best Wi-Fi pick, the Orbit 21004 B-hyve Smart Hose Faucet Timer, comes with a convenient app that allows you to create custom watering schedules, monitor your water usage, and adjust the watering based on your local weather forecast.
Power Source
Electronic hose timers require a battery for operation. Most of these devices run off two AA batteries, though some smart hose timers might require more batteries for remote operation via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. As the name suggests, a solar-powered hose timer derives its energy from the sun. Our Best Splurge pick, the Netro Pixie Smart Hose Faucet Timer, has an efficient solar cell that powers the device—providing it receives an adequate amount of direct sunlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are hose timers worth it?
“Hose timers are worth the time and cost to purchase and install, especially with the time they save you overall,” says Liz Will, a master gardener and garden coach. They can be programmed to run once or multiple times per day—sparing you the effort of having to do it manually every time. Many models also have a rain-delay function, saving you money and conserving water at the same time.
Do hose timers reduce water pressure?
“Anytime you run water through an additional device, you lose a little water pressure,” Will says. She suggests reading reviews and looking for models that specifically state they don’t reduce water pressure. If you have a job that requires stronger water flow, you can remove or deactivate the timer temporarily.
Can you use a timer with a hose splitter?
According to Will, you can use a timer with a hose splitter, but the timer will only control the side it’s installed on. “Using a splitter with a timer is a great set up, because you can have one side set up with the timer for automatic watering, and the other side set up with a hose for occasional use,” she says. This way, you won’t have to remove the timer every time you need to use the hose.
Do water timers need electricity?
Mechanical host timers do not require electricity and work similar to an egg timer, shutting off when they’ve reached the set time limit. Programmable water timers need electricity to run. Most of these devices are battery-operated, but there are some solar-powered options available.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Sage McHugh, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce who specializes in the home and garden sector. When selecting the best automatic hose timers for this roundup, she considered dozens of products, carefully evaluating their programmability, ease of use, additional features, and overall performance. McHugh also took hundreds of customer reviews, as well as write-ups from third-party websites into consideration. For expert insight on hose timers, she interviewed Liz Will, a master gardener, garden coach, and author of the blog Learn To Grow Gardens
Read Next: The 7 Best Garden Hoses of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
