Unlike most similar Water Timers, this one employs a globe valve, which saves electricity and prevents leakage. It uses the free energy of the sun to turn on the water supply at one of 16 different intervals, and for one of 16 different durations. It's ideal for gardens that get a variety of sun patterns or where there are areas with differing soil compositions. Simply set it up and this little gem is ready to take care of lawn or garden!