Motorized Ball valve at HD (approx $36)!

[Ermin]

I came across this gadget at HD and is wondering what do you guys think about its capablilties.....

It is the "3060 Electronis Aqua Timer" by Melnor. It can be found under Products, then Timer page.

Basically a timer for watering your garden and it is designed to hook up to a outdoor faucet. Adapting it to PVC hook-up is very easy. Just look in the HD PVC section for parts (total about $2).

The unit has 6 cycles with "MIST" function. Since there are no limit on the cycle time, it can be set to run from 12:00 pm to 11:59 am. This almost makes it operate 24/7. The "MIST" function will operate the valve in the unit to open for 5-15 min then close for 10 min. The timer runs on 2 AA battery. But, I'm sure a AC/DC adapter can be rigged up to it with little modification.

Total cost about $43 + tax. ($36 for unit, $2 for PVC parts, $5 for AC/DC adapter).

Drawbacks.....
1.) Unit has 3/4" opening at most.
2.) It makes semi-loud noise during its "open/close" valve cycles.
3.) Needs external power source due to constant open/close cycles.
4.) Unknown durability

This unit can be hooked up to a return line to provide wave movements. Nothing is hanging in the tank, so its an upgrade in looks over powerheads.

Please tell me what you guys think!

[DukeDog]

Is it a 3 way ball valve?
Jeff

[organicreefer]

yeah ,i would like to add a three way motorized to my return line to simulate switching tides,,...somehow,this sounds too good;)
if it isnt three way,you have to have two nsync right?
it doesnt work 24 hrs?you have to reset it every day???if thats the case its not for me anway;)