The Rachio Smart Hose Timer aims to transform the traditional garden hose into a smart watering system, offering intelligent convenience and automation for your landscape and garden without the need for an in-ground irrigation system. Our testing has shown that this sub-$100 system can be used with hose-end sprinklers, drip irrigation setups, and other watering accessories to provide sophisticated scheduling, weather-based automation, and on-demand watering for your home. Keep reading for our detailed review.
As a prominent manufacturer of smart irrigation controllers, Rachio expands its product line with the introduction of the Smart Hose Timer. Priced at $99.99, this starter kit includes a battery-powered valve unit, a Wi-Fi hub, and a power adapter, all of which seamlessly integrate with the Rachio app on iOS and Android. Each valve unit serves as a zone for your landscape or garden, and you can connect up to 8 of them to a single Wi-Fi hub. While the Smart Hose Timer can only control one hose-end accessory at a time, you can use multiple valve units to cover all areas of your outdoor space.
Setting up the Rachio Smart Hose Timer is quick and easy, taking just about 10 minutes. Existing Rachio users can effortlessly add the system to their network through the app, while new users will need to create a Rachio account and set up a Home location before connecting the valve and hub. Once installed, the system can be controlled like any other Rachio device, providing intelligent watering based on your preferences and weather conditions.
To make the most of your Smart Hose Timer, you’ll need to connect the valve to an exterior hose bib, attach a garden hose, and add a sprinkler or other accessory. Remember to keep the hose bib open for the valve to function properly. Additionally, setting up a Weather Source in the app allows for weather-based automation, ensuring efficient watering based on local conditions.
Overall, the Rachio Smart Hose Timer offers a convenient and effective solution for smart watering in your outdoor space. With simple setup, seamless integration with the Rachio app, and the ability to customize watering schedules and automation, this system elevates your gardening experience without the need for complex irrigation systems.
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