Orbit Easy Dial 6-Station Irrigation Controller, Indoor Grey — 2 Programs & Budget Dial

If you want dependable, no-frills control for a small lawn, garden, or drip layout, the Orbit Easy Dial 28966 gives you two separate programs, four start times per program, and a Budget dial to scale runtimes quickly. Built for indoor mounting, the unit runs on a 300mA transformer that powers one valve solenoid at a time and works with most major valve brands. Its simple interface is designed for homeowners and contractors who prefer tactile controls over smartphone setups.

How do I set up separate schedules for different parts of my yard?

The controller offers Program A and Program B so you can create two distinct watering plans — for example, turf on one program and drip beds on the other. Each program supports four independent start times, letting you stagger runs for cycle-and-soak watering that reduces runoff and improves infiltration.

• Program A and B — set different days and runtimes for each program
• Four start times per program — schedule morning and evening cycles
• Budget dial (10–200%) — scale all station runtimes at once without reprogramming
• Automatic stacking — overlapping schedules run sequentially so only one valve runs

What wiring and installation steps are required for indoor mounting?

Mount the unit on a dry interior wall near a grounded outlet and connect the transformer's plug. Attach the common wire (typically white) to the C terminal, then land each zone conductor to stations 1–6. The screw terminals accept 18‑gauge irrigation wire for a secure connection.

• Indoor use only — install inside a garage or utility room; use Orbit outdoor cabinet for exposed locations
• Screw terminals — accept 18 AWG irrigation wire for each station
• 300mA transformer — powers one valve solenoid at a time (no pump start relay support)
• Compatibility — works with most 24 VAC valves from Hunter, Rain Bird, Toro, and others

How can I pause watering for rain or run a zone manually?

The controller includes a Rain Delay function so you can suspend watering for a set number of days after rainfall. Manual mode lets you run one station, a selection of stations, or all zones sequentially for a set duration — useful for system checks or supplemental irrigation.

• Rain Delay — skip scheduled runs for configurable days after wet weather
• Manual run — test zones or provide extra watering without altering schedules
• Relay for sensors — add an automatic rain or freeze sensor (sold separately) for hands-free suspension
• ‘No AC’ indicator — prompts you to check the transformer if display goes dark

Will this controller work with my existing valves and landscaping plan?

Yes — the Easy Dial supports standard 24 VAC solenoid valves used widely in residential irrigation systems. Because it only powers one solenoid at a time, verify the transformer's 300mA rating meets your valve requirements; larger systems or simultaneous valve operation would need a different controller or transformer.

• Designed for standard 24 VAC valves — compatible with major brands
• Single-solenoid power — 300mA transformer operates one valve at once
• Best for up to six zones — ideal for small to medium residential layouts
• Outdoor use option — place inside Orbit 57095 outdoor cabinet with GFCI for weather exposure

Who is this for? The Orbit Easy Dial 6-Station controller is aimed at homeowners, landscapers, and rental property managers who want a reliable, easy-to-program indoor irrigation controller without cloud services or apps. If you need simple dial-based scheduling for up to six zones, dual program flexibility, and manual/rain-delay features in a compact, budget-friendly package, this controller is a practical choice. For outdoor installations or larger systems requiring pump-start or multi-valve simultaneous operation, consider pairing the unit with the Orbit outdoor cabinet or selecting a controller with higher current capacity.