Smart hose timer internal flooding

post by Fymaxwell on Jun 26, 2024

I’ve got water flooding into the battery chamber of my Rachio smart hose timer. I’ve been through this in the past with two units that Rachio replaced, and I am starting to wonder if it’s me or Rachio that’s to blame.

I am currently running four timers. Three of the timers are trouble-free. The one that is malfunctioning was bought at the same time as the two others that previously failed, so perhaps there were manufacturing issues with that batch? I’d appreciate any insight that the community might be able to offer, as this is starting to drive me mad.

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Top replies

post by Thomas_Lerman on Jun 26, 2024

I have one timer with no issues.

post by franz on Jun 26, 2024

@Fymaxwell I’m having our support team reach out to you. They will take care of you!

post by WaterMunkee on Oct 9, 2024

Same here. Twice. First time I thought maybe I could’ve incorrectly installed the battery door. Lots of corrosion inside after 45 days, device quit working. After cleaning thoroughly, I installed fresh batteries and battery door and ensured everything was snug. New batteries completely rusted/corroded within 45 days again, and again device quit working. Obviously this unit’s battery compartment is not waterproof. Frustrating!

post by bgorbet on Oct 24, 2024

Same problem. I’ve only had this device a few months and its already all corroded inside. Doesn’t seem like the waterproofing works well enough.

post by rhawley on Mar 20, 2025

I’m having the same issue with internal flooding while my other timer is perfect.

post by Davico on Apr 22, 2025

I have the same issue in one of my devices, but both of them are not working as expected anymore. Water leaks from inside the device.

post by Jkuri on Dec 31, 2024

The support team did reach out and solved my issue quickly and easily and I am back up and operational. So a big thank-you for the great customer service and supporting your product.

post by dcampbell386 on Jun 24, 2025

I have (2) timers and both are having internal flooding and the batteries are completely eroded. What do I do?

post by uncgal10 on Jun 30, 2025

Oh wow, I am not alone! My Rachio keeps internal flooding, I was able to clean up the rust to get it to work again but it has not only rusted again now corroding the battery contacts. will be reaching out to support on this based on this thread.

post by justinappleby on Aug 20, 2025

I mean, it’s a hose timer valve… Why would you ever design one that is so prone to flooding the battery compartment? This is obviously a widespread issue and I’d like to know if there is a new model that addresses this obvious problem.

post by JBrachio on Nov 6, 2025

I have experienced the same flooding issue with my unit.