Even though this is not actually something new, the WIFI type controllers have now become available to sprinkler contractors for residential and light commercial from the manufacturers that irrigation contractors trust and prefer. This technology allows you to control your sprinkler systems through your smart phone or other devices with specific apps that are free to download. There are other manufacturers who sell these controllers online, I personally, cannot vouch for them, nor will I install them.
It’s a relativity simple concept. You need to only connect to a weather station (some may charge a monthly fee though) and allow the controller to communicate with it. It will adjust your initial programming based on weather conditions and you can control your sprinklers without having to go to the physical location of your irrigation controller, or from anywhere you may be.
You can allow sprinkler contractors access to your controller via our smart phone or IOs enabled device with your invitation. Your contractor does not need any of your passwords. With remote access we can make run time adjustments, receive alerts and make a service call without you having to be there.
So far this season I have installed quite a few of these controllers and I must say I am impressed. From the two different manufacturers I prefer, there are few differences between the controllers, but the whole concept is to have more control over scheduling based on the weather, and knowing when it ran. It can tell us if there is a wiring issue , and if you want to get savvy, it can keep track of your water usage and let you know if there may be a broken head or pipe in the system.
These devices are designed for a water efficiency and save you money on your water bill!!
One of the manufacturers compliments its WIFI with a web based platform so you can go onto your PC or Mac and check settings, alerts,etc. and make changes to the controller.
At this time one of the two manufacturers I prefer is capable of working with Alexa(Amazon).
The technology is here so why not use it to help conserve our water and save money.
If you may be interested in installing one of these controllers, I will have the availability throughout the winter, after blow outs to install one.