Rain Bird SST-400I Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
This detailed manual expertly guides users through the setup and operation of the Rain Bird SST-400I timer, ensuring efficient sprinkler system management and optimal watering schedules.
The Rain Bird SST-400I is a user-friendly, automatic sprinkler timer designed for residential use, simplifying lawn and garden irrigation; This controller offers straightforward programming, allowing homeowners to easily customize watering schedules to meet specific landscape needs. It’s known for its simple “Simple To Set” interface, making operation accessible even for those unfamiliar with irrigation systems.
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for installing, programming, and maintaining your SST-400I timer. It covers everything from initial setup and wiring to advanced features like rain delay and seasonal adjustment. Understanding these features will help you conserve water, promote healthy plant growth, and save money on your water bill. The SST-400I is a reliable solution for automated watering, ensuring a lush and vibrant outdoor space.
What’s Included in the Box
Upon opening your Rain Bird SST-400I package, you should find several key components essential for a successful installation. These include the SST-400I controller unit itself, which houses the programming and operational functions. A detailed instruction manual, similar to this one, is also provided to guide you through each step of the process.
Additionally, you’ll receive a mounting plate and screws for securely attaching the controller to a wall. While the power adapter is included, wire connectors are typically not supplied and must be purchased separately to connect the valve wires. Verify all components are present before beginning installation. Missing parts should be reported to the retailer or Rain Bird customer support for prompt replacement, ensuring a smooth setup experience.
Safety Precautions
Important safety guidelines must be followed during the installation and operation of your Rain Bird SST-400I controller. Always disconnect power to the controller before making any wiring connections to prevent electrical shock. Installation should be performed by a qualified individual familiar with low-voltage electrical systems.
Keep the controller dry and protected from the elements; while designed for outdoor use, direct exposure to rain or excessive moisture can cause damage. Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the controller yourself – contact Rain Bird customer support for assistance. Ensure all wiring connections are secure and properly insulated. Finally, always test the system after installation to confirm proper operation and prevent potential hazards.

Installation
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance. This section details mounting, power connection, and valve wiring procedures for your Rain Bird SST-400I controller.
Mounting the Controller
Selecting a suitable location is the first step. Choose an indoor location protected from direct sunlight, rain, and freezing temperatures. Ensure the location is easily accessible for programming and maintenance. The controller can be mounted to a wall using screws – appropriate mounting hardware is typically not included and must be sourced separately.
Consider proximity to a grounded electrical outlet and the valves. Maintain a minimum of 12 inches of clearance around the controller for adequate ventilation. Before mounting, verify the wall can support the controller’s weight. Use a level to ensure the controller is mounted straight for a professional appearance and stable operation. Carefully mark the screw holes, drill pilot holes, and securely fasten the controller to the wall.
Connecting Power Supply
Before connecting power, ensure the controller is securely mounted and the power supply is compatible. The Rain Bird SST-400I typically requires a 24VAC power supply, often included in the installation kit, but verify this before proceeding. Locate the designated power connection terminals within the controller’s wiring compartment.
Carefully insert the power supply wires into the terminals, observing correct polarity if indicated. Securely tighten the terminal screws to ensure a firm connection, preventing loose wires and potential malfunctions. Never connect the power supply until all valve wiring is complete to avoid accidental activation and potential damage. Once all wiring is verified, plug the power supply into a grounded electrical outlet.
Wiring the Valves – Common Configuration
For a standard setup, each valve wire connects directly from the controller to its corresponding valve. Identify the zone terminals within the controller – these are typically numbered to match your zones. Run appropriately sized wire (typically 18-gauge sprinkler wire) from each zone terminal to the corresponding valve.
At each valve, connect the wire to the valve’s terminal strip, ensuring a secure connection. The common wire, usually white, connects to the ‘common’ terminal on both the controller and all valves. Double-check all connections before applying power. Incorrect wiring can lead to valve malfunctions or controller damage. Proper wire connections are crucial for reliable operation.
Wiring the Valves – Master Valve Setup
A master valve controls water flow to all zones, providing a safety shut-off and preventing water waste. If utilizing a master valve, connect a dedicated wire from the ‘Master’ terminal on the SST-400I controller to the master valve’s designated terminal. Ensure the master valve is normally closed – meaning it requires power to open.
Connect the common wire to both the controller’s common terminal and the master valve’s common terminal. Programming the controller to activate the master valve before any zones is essential. This ensures water pressure is available before zone valves open. Verify proper operation by testing the master valve independently before programming schedules.

Programming the SST-400I

Effortlessly configure your watering schedules with the intuitive SST-400I interface, setting precise start times, durations, and frequencies for optimal lawn hydration and conservation.
Setting the Date and Time
Accurate date and time settings are crucial for proper operation of your Rain Bird SST-400I controller. To begin, ensure the controller has a functioning battery, as power interruptions can reset these settings. Access the date and time setting menu by pressing the “Set” button, followed by the “Menu” button until “Date” or “Time” appears on the display.
Use the “Hour” and “Minute” buttons to adjust the current time. Confirm your selection by pressing “Set” again; Repeat this process for setting the date, utilizing the “Month,” “Day,” and “Year” buttons. Pay close attention to the AM/PM indicator when setting the time. Once both the date and time are correctly configured, press “Set” one final time to save your changes and exit the programming mode. A correctly set date and time ensures your programmed watering schedules execute as intended.
Programming Watering Schedules – A Zone
To program a watering schedule for Zone A on your Rain Bird SST-400I, first, press the “Set” button, then navigate to “Program A” using the “Menu” button. Select Zone A by pressing the “Zone” button until “A” is displayed. Now, use the “Hour” and “Minute” buttons to set the desired start time for watering in Zone A. Press “Set” to confirm.

Next, adjust the watering duration using the “Minute” button – this determines how long Zone A will be watered each time. Press “Set” again to save the duration. You can add multiple start times for Zone A by repeating the start time setting process. Finally, select the days of the week you want Zone A to water, using the appropriate buttons. Press “Set” to save the entire schedule for Zone A.
Programming Watering Schedules – B Zone
Programming Zone B on the Rain Bird SST-400I follows a similar process to Zone A. Begin by pressing “Set” and navigating to “Program B” using the “Menu” button. Select Zone B by repeatedly pressing the “Zone” button until “B” appears on the display. Utilize the “Hour” and “Minute” buttons to establish the preferred start time for Zone B’s watering cycle, then confirm by pressing “Set”.
Adjust the watering duration for Zone B using the “Minute” button, specifying the length of each watering session. Press “Set” to save this duration. Multiple start times can be added for Zone B by repeating the start time setting steps. Finally, designate the days of the week for Zone B’s watering schedule using the corresponding buttons, and press “Set” to finalize the Zone B program;
Adjusting Watering Duration
Precisely controlling watering duration is crucial for efficient water usage with the Rain Bird SST-400I. After selecting a zone (A or B) and entering the programming mode, use the “Minute” button to modify the watering time. The display will show the current duration, which you can increase or decrease in one-minute increments by pressing the “Minute” button.
Hold the button for faster adjustments. Consider the specific needs of your landscaping – grass types, shrubbery, and flowerbeds all require varying amounts of water. Observe your plants for signs of over or under-watering to fine-tune the duration. Remember to press “Set” after each adjustment to save the new watering time for that zone. Accurate duration settings contribute to a healthy and cost-effective irrigation system.

Setting Start Times
Establishing appropriate start times is fundamental to effective irrigation with the Rain Bird SST-400I. Within the programming mode for each zone (A or B), utilize the “Hour” button to set the desired start time. The display will indicate the current hour, adjustable in one-hour increments with each press of the “Hour” button. Holding the button accelerates the process.
Consider local watering restrictions and sunlight exposure when choosing start times. Early morning watering minimizes evaporation, while avoiding late evening watering reduces the risk of fungal diseases. After setting the hour, press “Set” to confirm. You can program multiple start times per zone for customized watering schedules. Proper start time configuration ensures your landscape receives adequate hydration when it needs it most.

Advanced Features
The Rain Bird SST-400I boasts features like rain delay, seasonal adjust, manual watering, and cycle and soak, providing enhanced control and water conservation capabilities.
Rain Delay Functionality
The Rain Bird SST-400I’s rain delay feature is invaluable for preventing overwatering during periods of natural precipitation; This function temporarily suspends scheduled watering cycles, conserving water and promoting healthy landscaping. Users can typically set a rain delay for a specific duration, ranging from hours to days, depending on the forecast and soil conditions.
Activating the rain delay is usually straightforward, often involving a dedicated button or menu option on the controller. The system will then pause all programmed watering schedules until the delay period expires. It’s crucial to remember to deactivate the rain delay once the weather clears to resume normal irrigation. This feature is a simple yet effective way to optimize water usage and respond to changing environmental conditions, ensuring a lush and sustainable landscape.
Seasonal Adjust – Percentage Adjustment
The Rain Bird SST-400I incorporates a seasonal adjust feature, allowing users to fine-tune watering schedules based on changing weather patterns throughout the year. This is typically expressed as a percentage adjustment, increasing or decreasing watering duration across all zones. As temperatures rise in the summer, a positive percentage adjustment can compensate for increased evaporation and plant water needs.
Conversely, during cooler months or periods of rainfall, a negative adjustment reduces watering, preventing over-saturation. This feature provides a convenient way to optimize water usage without manually altering each zone’s individual schedule. The seasonal adjust is a global setting, impacting all programmed zones proportionally, simplifying irrigation management and promoting water conservation. It’s a key component for maintaining a healthy landscape efficiently.
Manual Watering Mode
The Rain Bird SST-400I offers a convenient Manual Watering Mode, enabling users to initiate immediate irrigation of specific zones, overriding the programmed schedule. This feature is particularly useful for addressing localized dry spots, testing system functionality, or providing supplemental watering during unexpected heat waves. To activate Manual Watering, navigate to the desired zone and select the ‘Manual’ option within the controller’s interface.
Users can then specify the duration for which the zone will water, providing precise control over water application. Once the set time elapses, the zone will automatically cease watering. Manual Watering does not affect the programmed schedule; the controller will resume its regular operation at the next scheduled start time. It’s a flexible tool for targeted irrigation and system verification.

Cycle and Soak Feature
The Rain Bird SST-400I incorporates a valuable Cycle and Soak feature designed to promote healthier plant growth and minimize water runoff, especially on slopes or with compacted soil. This function divides a single watering cycle into multiple shorter intervals, allowing water to penetrate the soil more effectively before it evaporates or flows away.
Users can customize the ‘Soak’ time – the duration of each watering interval – and the number of ‘Cycles’ within a program. This tailored approach prevents overwatering and encourages deep root development. Activating Cycle and Soak is typically done within the zone programming settings, offering a simple yet powerful method for water conservation and improved landscape health. It’s ideal for challenging terrain and soil types.

Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions for common issues, deciphers error codes, and details how to restore the Rain Bird SST-400I to its factory settings for optimal performance.
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem: Valves aren’t turning on. Solution: Verify the power supply is securely connected and functioning. Check valve wiring for loose connections or breaks – ensure proper polarity. Confirm the program is active and the scheduled start time has passed. Inspect the valves themselves for physical obstructions or malfunctions;
Problem: Display is blank or flickering. Solution: Replace the battery; a low battery can cause display issues. Ensure the controller isn’t exposed to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. If the problem persists, the controller may require professional repair.
Problem: Program isn’t saving. Solution: Double-check that the battery has sufficient charge. Try resetting the controller (refer to the ‘Resetting the Controller’ section). Avoid interrupting the programming process during saving.
Problem: Watering duration is incorrect. Solution: Review and adjust the watering duration settings for each zone. Ensure the correct units (minutes or hours) are selected. Verify that Seasonal Adjust isn’t unintentionally affecting the duration.
Error Codes and Their Meanings
Error Code 1 (Low Battery): Indicates the battery is nearing depletion and needs immediate replacement to maintain program settings and operational reliability. Replace with a fresh battery of the correct type.
Error Code 2 (Wiring Fault): Signals an issue with the valve wiring – potentially a short circuit, open circuit, or incorrect connection. Inspect all valve wires for damage and ensure proper connections to the terminals.
Error Code 3 (Communication Error): This rare error suggests a problem with internal communication within the controller. Attempt a reset of the controller; if the error persists, professional service is recommended.
Error Code 4 (Memory Error): Indicates a potential issue with the controller’s memory. Resetting the controller to factory defaults may resolve this, but will erase all programmed schedules. Back up settings if possible.
Resetting the Controller to Factory Defaults
To restore the Rain Bird SST-400I to its original factory settings, simultaneously press and hold the ‘Program’ and ‘Run’ buttons for a minimum of five seconds. The display will briefly flash and then revert to the initial setup screen, confirming a successful reset.
Please note: This process will erase all existing programming, including watering schedules, date, and time settings. A complete reprogramming of the controller will be necessary after performing a factory reset. This is useful for troubleshooting persistent issues or preparing the controller for a new installation.
Before resetting, consider documenting your current settings to expedite the reprogramming process. This ensures a smooth transition and minimizes downtime for your irrigation system.

Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures reliable operation of your Rain Bird SST-400I, including periodic battery checks and cleaning the controller’s exterior with a damp cloth.
Battery Replacement
Maintaining the battery is crucial for preserving programmed settings during power outages. The Rain Bird SST-400I utilizes a standard 9-volt battery, easily accessible within the controller’s case. To replace it, first, disconnect the power supply to avoid any electrical issues. Gently open the controller’s front panel, typically by releasing clips or screws. Locate the battery compartment and carefully remove the old battery.
Ensure correct polarity when inserting the new 9-volt battery – matching the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals. A low battery is often indicated by flashing display or loss of programmed data. After replacement, re-connect the power supply and verify the time and date are still accurate. It’s recommended to replace the battery annually or whenever the low battery indicator appears, safeguarding your irrigation schedules.
Cleaning the Controller
Regular cleaning extends the lifespan of your Rain Bird SST-400I controller and ensures reliable operation. Before cleaning, always disconnect the power supply to prevent electrical shock. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of the controller, removing any dust, dirt, or debris. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the plastic casing and electronic components.
Pay particular attention to the display screen and buttons, gently cleaning them to maintain visibility and responsiveness. For stubborn dirt, lightly dampen the cloth with a mild soap solution, ensuring it’s not overly wet. Never spray water directly onto the controller. After cleaning, thoroughly dry the unit before reconnecting the power. Periodic cleaning, especially in dusty environments, will keep your SST-400I functioning optimally for years.







































































