Rain Bird SST600IN Simple Indoor Sprinkler Irrigation System: Review & Guide

Proper irrigation scheduling is key to a healthy, green yard and efficient water use. The Rain Bird SST600IN is a simple-to-set indoor sprinkler timer that helps homeowners automate watering for up to 6 zones. This 2023 updated model replaces the older SST600I and is designed for easy programming and durability.

In this review, we will introduce the SST600IN, explain how it works, and discuss its features and performance. We will also cover why irrigation controllers matter for water conservation, present relevant statistics and research, share a personal setup experience, and offer practical tips and comparisons. The goal is to give you a thorough, easy-to-understand review of the SST600IN and help you decide if it fits your needs.

What Is Rain Bird SST600IN Simple Indoor Sprinkler?

The Rain Bird SST600IN is an indoor irrigation timer (controller) that manages up to six separate sprinkler zones (valves) in a lawn or garden. It uses a turn-dial and digital interface to set watering schedules for each zone individually. Unlike Wi-Fi or weather-based “smart” controllers, the SST600IN is a manual, plug-in unit that requires you to program it directly.

It’s intended for installation inside a protected location (like a garage or shed) and must be plugged into a standard outlet. Inside, the controller sends 24VAC power to irrigation valves through wiring and runs them according to your set schedule.

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The SST600IN is an indoor-mounted timer built for ease-of-use and long-lasting performance. Key specifications include:

1. Brand: Rain Bird
2. Voltage: 127 Volts
3. Dimensions: 7.63″ L x 6.75″ W x 1.95″ H
4. Weight: 13.33 ounces
5. Zones Supported: 6
6. Installation: Indoor (garage, home, or waterproof shed)
7. Watering Time per Zone: 0-240 minutes
8. Special Features: Seasonal Adjust, Rain Delay, Water 1 Zone Now, Water All Zones Now, surge protection, sealed case

The timer allows for custom scheduling for each zone, supports multiple daily watering times, and has intuitive controls that even beginners can understand. It also provides memory retention in case of power outages and built-in troubleshooting for valves and wiring issues.

Pros & Cons of  Rain Bird Simple To Set Indoor Sprinkler Irrigation System

Pros	Cons
Easy to Program: The zone-by-zone dial system is intuitive. Users report being able to set schedules quickly without trouble. You see exactly which zone is active.	Indoor Use Only: Must be installed in a dry, sheltered place. Not meant for outdoor mounting in an exposed box.
Customizable: Each of the 6 zones can have its own schedule and run time. You get four start times per zone for flexible watering.	No Wi-Fi or Weather Sync: Lacks smart features. You must adjust schedules manually; it doesn’t automatically skip watering when it rains unless you set Rain Delay yourself.
Manual Run Options: Both “Water All Zones” and single-zone manual run buttons allow on-demand watering, very handy for spot watering or special needs.	Exposed Controls: The front has no flip-up cover, so the dial and buttons are always exposed. They could collect dust or grime over many years.
Seasonal Adjust: The one-touch seasonal adjust saves time when conditions change (e.g. hot summer or cool fall).	Heavy Transformer: The included transformer can be heavy. Some users noted needing a sturdy outlet or mounting because of its weight.
Rain Delay: Built-in rain delay (up to 72 hours) is better than manual unplugging. It pauses and then automatically resumes your schedule.	Wiring Visibility: Solenoid wires enter at the bottom without extra covers. Care is needed to protect/organize them (some 3D-print a guide to avoid wire stress).
Durable Design: The sealed casing protects the electronics; the transformer surge protection guards against lightning or spikes.	Default Manual Runtime: When using the manual single-zone run, the default is 10 minutes, which may not match your usual setting. (Users mentioned having to adjust each time.)
Battery Backup: Stores programming indefinitely, so short power outages don’t erase your settings.	No Zone Display Label: Because there’s no cover or slot to attach a paper schedule, you need another way (like a garden planner) to remember each zone’s watering plan.
Affordable: At around $85, it’s priced competitively for a 6-station controller.

Why Indoor Sprinkler Irrigation System Matters?

Efficient irrigation is essential not just for plant health but also for water conservation. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), outdoor water use accounts for nearly 30% of total household water consumption, and improper watering can lead to water wastage of up to 50%. Smart irrigation controllers like the SST600IN ensure that each zone receives water according to the specific needs of the soil and plants, reducing runoff and evaporation losses.

Science shows that watering in shorter, multiple intervals improves soil absorption, prevents erosion, and helps plant roots grow deeper and stronger. The SST600IN allows programming up to four custom watering times per day, making it ideal for slopes or clay-heavy soils where single, long watering cycles would otherwise lead to runoff.

Water conservation is a growing concern globally, and irrigation technology is advancing fast. Some key figures and trends put the SST600IN in context:

a. Residential Water Use: The U.S. EPA found nearly one-third of household water goes to outdoor irrigation. In dry states like California or Arizona, that share can exceed 60%. Researchers in Florida found that while the national average is 30%, some households in Florida spend 60–70% of their water on yard irrigation. This highlights how critical outdoor savings are for many regions.

b. Irrigation Efficiency: Unfortunately, most sprinkler systems are only 40–50% efficient. This means much of the water sprayed on a lawn never reaches roots due to evaporation or runoff. Even though the SST600IN does not monitor soil moisture, it allows cycling and timing that improve this efficiency (e.g., break one long cycle into two passes). By avoiding watering during rain (with Rain Delay) or wind, the timer indirectly helps fight this inefficiency.

c. Savings with Controllers: Multiple studies show large water savings from modern controllers. The EPA (2016) estimates that smart irrigation devices can cut outdoor water use by 20–50%. In a 2023 study, homeowners using Rain Bird’s smart tech combined with sensors achieved 25–40% less irrigation water use.

While the SST600IN is not a “smart” controller, replacing an old mechanical timer with any programmable digital model can save thousands of gallons annually. One analysis suggests that upgrading to a water-efficient controller could save about 15,000 gallons per year per home. Scaled nationwide, that’s up to 390 billion gallons and $4.5 billion in water cost savings annually.

d. Market Growth: The irrigation controller market is expanding rapidly. A 2025 industry report forecasts global controller market growth from $1.3 billion in 2024 to $4.3 billion by 2034. This reflects trends toward automation and water-conscious technologies. In North America alone, smart irrigation (with Wi-Fi or weather integration) is a growing segment. However, traditional controllers like the SST600IN still hold a strong market share due to their low cost and reliability.

e. Regional Programs: Water utilities often incentivize modern controllers. For example, U.S. rebate programs offer grants and discounts for “smart” or WaterSense-labeled controllers. These programs are based on evidence that proper controllers deliver major water savings. Even without rebates, any timer that prevents unnecessary watering contributes to urban water conservation goals.

My Setup and Experience with Rain Bird SST600IN Sprinkler Irrigation

Setting up the SST600IN was straightforward. The device arrived on time, well-packed, and slightly heavier than expected due to the 24 VAC transformer. I installed it in my garage and wired it to five existing irrigation zones.

The wiring was simple, and the device worked perfectly on the first try. The LCD screen is easy to read, and the LED indicators make it simple to check which zones are running. I particularly liked the ability to visually confirm the days each zone is scheduled to water.

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Since my previous controller was over 30 years old, upgrading to the SST600IN was a significant improvement. The new features like “Water All Zones Now” and Rain Delay are extremely convenient. For example, I can now suspend watering for 72 hours during unexpected rainfall without worrying about forgetting to reactivate the system.

One small customization I made was adding a 3D-printed wire channel to protect the exposed solenoid wires. While this is not necessary for everyone, it helped me feel more confident in the long-term durability of the installation.

Performance of Rain Bird Indoor Sprinkler Irrigation System

In the months I’ve used the SST600IN, performance has been excellent. Each zone waters as programmed, and the multiple daily schedules allow water to soak into the soil instead of running off.

The manual zone feature is particularly useful for spot-watering areas that need extra attention. While the default 10-minute run time requires adjustment for longer watering, it’s a minor issue in an otherwise robust system.

The unit’s memory retention ensures that settings are never lost in case of a power outage, which is a significant advantage over older controllers. The sealed case has kept the device free from dust and grime in my garage, and the surge protection provides peace of mind against lightning strikes or power fluctuations.

• Accuracy: Zones run for the programmed duration without variation.
• Ease of Use: Zone-by-zone programming and visible schedules simplify adjustments.
• Durability: The sealed case protects against dust, insects, and moisture, making it reliable over time.
• Safety: Built-in surge protection reduces risk from electrical spikes, which was important in my area where lightning can be frequent.

Practical Tips to use Rain Bird SST600IN Sprinkler

When using the SST600IN or any irrigation controller, the following tips can help you get the best results:

i. Label Your Zones: Before wiring, label each valve wire and zone to avoid confusion. Some people place a sticker near the dial or keep a zone map handy in the garage. This makes programming and future troubleshooting easier.

ii. Secure the Transformer: Because the SST600IN’s transformer is heavy, mount it on a sturdy wall and avoid plugging it into a loose outlet. You can also mount it to the controller bracket (if space allows) to relieve stress on the wall receptacle.

iii. Waterproof Connectors: Use quality waterproof wire nuts or gel connectors on the valve wires. Since the wiring chamber opens to the bottom, extra sealant like silicone on the wire nuts provides extra protection against moisture.

iv. Use Seasonal Adjust Wisely: The one-touch seasonal adjust can quickly save time each season. Note that it multiplies run times; for example, +50% will add half again onto whatever times you set. Check your plants after adjusting to avoid over or under watering inadvertently.

v. Schedule Longer Intervals for Clay Soils: If your yard has clay soil, split watering into shorter cycles (drip feeding) to reduce runoff. The SST600IN’s multiple start times per zone allow you to water, say, for 10 minutes, then again an hour later for 10 minutes.

vi. Remember to Set Back to Auto: After doing a manual zone run, always turn the dial back to “Auto” (or the appropriate program) to resume normal operation. This prevents accidentally skipping days of watering (a common beginner mistake).

vii. Check the Display Regularly: Occasionally turn the dial through the zones to review settings. Make sure the current date/time is correct (there is a clock setting), and confirm that each zone’s schedule matches your seasonal needs.

viii. Install a Rain Sensor (Optional): The SST600IN supports a rain sensor. If you have one, hook it up to the designated terminals. It will automatically pause watering when it senses moisture, which adds an extra layer of water savings beyond the manual Rain Delay.

ix. Plan for Power Differences (International Use): In countries with 220–240VAC mains, you’ll need a step-down transformer to convert to 110VAC for the SST600IN’s adapter. (Reviewers outside the U.S. noted this is required.) Otherwise, the controller itself just runs on 24VAC from its own plug-in power supply.

Following these tips will help ensure your SST600IN performs well and your lawn stays healthy. The device itself is simple, but good habits (like zoning and labeling) maximize its effectiveness.

Comparisons with Alternatives Indoor Sprinklers Irrigation Systems

Compared to other non-WiFi controllers, the SST600IN offers superior features like extended Rain Delay, Seasonal Adjust, surge protection, and easy manual operation, making it a top choice for homeowners who want reliability and simplicity

Final Recommendations

The Rain Bird SST600IN Simple-To-Set Indoor Sprinkler/Irrigation Timer is a highly recommended choice for homeowners seeking a reliable, easy-to-use, and durable irrigation controller. Its combination of user-friendly programming, customizable watering schedules, seasonal adjustment, and rain delay makes it a versatile tool for maintaining a healthy garden or lawn while saving water.

While it lacks WiFi connectivity and has exposed wiring, these are minor trade-offs for the affordability and reliability it provides. For users in regions with 230V electricity, a separate adapter is required, but this does not diminish its overall value.

If you want a stress-free watering system that works for multiple zones, protects your plants, and reduces water waste, the Rain Bird SST600IN is an excellent investment. It delivers all the essential features of modern irrigation control without unnecessary complexity or cost.

In conclusion, for its price point and feature set, the Rain Bird SST600IN is a five-star choice for anyone looking to simplify their watering routine and maintain a healthy, green garden efficiently. With proper setup, this timer can last for years and save both water and effort, making it one of the best indoor irrigation controllers available today

• Source: https://cultivationag.com/rain-bird-sst600in-simple-indoor-sprinkler-irrigation-system-review-guide/