Irrigation Installations

If valves are the heart of an irrigation system, then the irrigation controller is the brain. Sometimes referred to as an irrigation timer, today’s irrigation controllers can do so much more than turn sprinklers on and off.

The latest advancements in irrigation controller is WiFi and Cellular. Over the last several years, many irrigation manufacturers have come to the market with a “Smart” controller. This means that contractors and homeowners can now connect to their irrigation systems remotely. In the residential space, this connection is primarily done through a WiFi network. With some manufacturers they offer a cellular or 900Mhz Radio connection as an option.

Today’s technology may carry a little up front cost, but the saving on the back side of your investment could save hundreds if not thousands of dollars. Water is not a cheap commodity. Smart irrigation controllers use local weather and landscape conditions to tailor watering schedules. In the past a clock would be used and the homeowner was subject to what ever that timer was set to. Or, the homeowner had to monitor the system daily.

Irrigation controllers, also known as timers or clocks, are essential components of irrigation systems. They automate the scheduling and timing of watering cycles, ensuring that the landscape receives the appropriate amount of water at the right times. Irrigation controllers have evolved over time, with advancements such as smart controllers, which utilize weather and landscape conditions to optimize irrigation scheduling.

Traditional irrigation controllers allow users to set watering schedules based on specific days, start times, and durations. These controllers provide basic control over irrigation cycles, ensuring regular watering. However, they may not account for changes in weather or landscape conditions, which can lead to water waste or insufficient watering. Smart irrigation controllers are an innovative solution that takes irrigation scheduling to the next level. These controllers utilize advanced technology, including internet connectivity, weather data, and sensors, to adjust watering schedules based on real-time conditions.

Smart Controllers offer many benefits

Weather-Based Adjustments: Smart controllers use local weather information, typically obtained through internet weather services, to adjust watering schedules. This includes factors such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and rainfall. By incorporating weather data, the controller can automatically increase or decrease irrigation durations to compensate for natural watering or to avoid watering during rain events.

Evapotranspiration (ET) Data: Some smart controllers utilize evapotranspiration data, which takes into account temperature, humidity, solar radiation, and wind speed to estimate the amount of water lost from the landscape due to evaporation and plant transpiration. This data helps the controller determine the appropriate irrigation duration and frequency to replace the lost water accurately.

Soil Moisture Sensors: Smart controllers can be integrated with soil moisture sensors, which measure the moisture content in the soil. These sensors provide real-time feedback on the moisture levels, allowing the controller to adjust irrigation schedules based on the actual needs of the landscape. If the soil is already sufficiently moist, the controller can delay or skip watering, reducing water waste.

Wireless Connectivity and Remote Control: Many smart controllers offer wireless connectivity and smartphone applications, allowing users to monitor and control their irrigation systems remotely. This feature provides convenience and flexibility, enabling users to adjust watering schedules, monitor water usage, and receive alerts or notifications about system performance.

More Benefits of Smart Controllers

The integration of weather and landscape conditions into irrigation scheduling through smart controllers offers several benefits:

Water Efficiency: By utilizing real-time weather data and adjusting irrigation schedules accordingly, smart controllers optimize water usage. They prevent overwatering during periods of rain or when soil moisture levels are already sufficient, reducing water waste and promoting water conservation.

Plant Health: Smart controllers ensure that plants receive the appropriate amount of water based on real-time conditions. This promotes healthier plant growth, reduces the risk of overwatering or underwatering, and helps prevent plant stress and diseases associated with improper watering practices.

Cost Savings: By improving water efficiency, smart controllers can lead to significant cost savings on water bills. They eliminate the need for manual adjustments or guesswork in irrigation scheduling, optimizing water usage and reducing water expenses.

Environmental Sustainability: Water conservation is an essential aspect of environmental sustainability. Smart controllers contribute to this by reducing water waste, preserving water resources, and promoting responsible irrigation practices.

Irrigation controllers, particularly smart controllers, are powerful tools for managing your irrigation system effectively. By incorporating weather data, evapotranspiration information, and soil moisture feedback, these controllers ensure that your landscape receives the right amount of water based on real-time conditions. This results in water efficiency, plant health, cost savings, and environmental sustainability. Upgrade your irrigation system with a smart controller to enjoy the benefits of intelligent and responsive watering for your landscape.