A WiFi Irrigation Controller makes it easy to control your sprinklers, whether you’re in the house or on vacation. You can use an app, a computer, or even voice commands for Google Home or Amazon Alexa. Some models have advanced features, like importing watering restrictions information for your area.
Smart Irrigation
A smart irrigation system adjusts watering schedules automatically based on local weather data, which saves you time and money. It’s also a great way to keep your garden healthy because it catches any water leaks and shuts off your irrigation when it’s not needed.
Some smart controllers even have a variety of additional capabilities, such as flow monitoring and zone shutdown. These features can make it easier to diagnose and fix any issues that may occur. They also help you avoid expensive leaks.
Installation
Installing a smart controller requires two steps: first, you must convert your existing in-ground irrigation system into a smart system. This requires removing the controller panel from your system and connecting it to the terminals on a new smart controller. Often, the manufacturer will provide instructions on how to do this.
Second, you must connect your irrigation system to the internet to allow the new smart device to connect to it. This is not as straightforward as it sounds, so you may want to hire an electrician or someone with knowledge of irrigation systems to get the job done.
Smart controllers often have a touchscreen, which makes it easier to program and update the settings on your irrigation system. Some also have a phone app that lets you see your schedule, check out water usage, and more.
This feature is especially helpful if you’re away for the weekend and want to make sure your lawn stays in good shape. It’s also a good way to catch any unexpected rain or wind storms that might cause your sprinklers to run over time.
Top Picks
The Rainbird 8 Station Indoor Sprinkler Controller is a great choice for anyone who wants to be able to easily monitor and control their garden’s watering. It works with both Android and Apple devices, and it has a wide variety of smart functions and scheduling options.
Rain Bird is a top brand of irrigation products, and its Wi-Fi-connected devices are a great option for homeowners looking to keep their lawns green and lush with minimal effort. The controller also comes with a battery-powered manual backup interface that lets you adjust your irrigation in case you lose power or WiFi.
Orbit’s B-hyve XR (8-zone or 16-zone) is another sturdily constructed model with plenty of smarts that can run over a Bluetooth connection to your phone. This model also offers weather intelligence and advanced timer controls, and it can be set up inside or out.
The best way to determine what type of WiFi irrigation controller is right for you is to consider your preferences. You’ll want a controller that has plenty of features and can handle complex watering schedules, as well as one that can work well with your phone or a voice assistant like Amazon Alexa. You’ll also want to consider your budget and the amount of work you’re willing to put into the setup process.