Smart irrigation controllers are important. They help find new ways to improve water use efficiency. They also improve results for clients. Water restrictions are increasing across the country. A smart irrigation controller can prevent a staggering utilities bill. It can also maintain a healthy landscape.

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But as technology advances, the options can feel complicated for both homeowners and contractors alike. Finding the right smart controller to fit the situation can seem challenging. However, these tips from product managers and industry experts can help clear the air.

Be smart about controllers

Today’s smart controllers are adding advanced connectivity options. Sergio Ramos, product marketing manager for irrigation and lighting software at The Toro Company, Bloomington, Minnesota, confirmed this. He says that not having to be physically present to adjust irrigation settings saves time. This reduces the time spent driving to client properties and checking systems.

“The obvious feature is convenience and time savings,” Ramos says. “You can control and manage irrigation systems using a mobile device or website. This capability means you can get more done. You also receive critical system information without the need to be physically present at the site or in the office.”

Clients may feel antsy about completely upgrading a system. They might hesitate to spend money on a technology change they don’t fully understand. It’s important to remember that a smart controller doesn’t have to be a full commitment to get results, Ramos says.

“Smart control is not an all-or-nothing proposition,” he says. If budget or timing is a factor, some manufacturers offer standard controllers. These controllers can be upgraded with smart capabilities when the need arises. “This allows customers the flexibility to add features or wireless control at any time.”

Many smart controllers offer the user the option to not use the connected aspect of the product. Users can instead use the tactile dial or physical interface. This flexibility allows them to level up to a smart controller over time. The controller won’t provide the enhanced efficiencies of a connected system. However, it can be helpful to have the option while still providing basic services.

Contractors should look for controllers that have the obvious features. They should also consider basic features essential for a well-functioning system. These features ensure efficiency, says Joseph Tsai, founder and CEO at Aeon Matrix, Cupertino, California. “Controllers are often designed with cost in mind. This design focus may result in smaller sizes. It can also lead to fewer features, such as surge protection,” Tsai says. “To ensure the safety and quality of a controller, it is important to check for certifications like UL. It is also important to have on-device buttons. These are useful just in case you need to run your zones when the internet is down.”

Installation considerations

There isn’t a significant difference when installing smart controllers. This applies to both unconnected controllers and those with limited connectivity. The main concern is the strength of connection at the installation location. The key factor is the strength of connection at the installation location. This is true whether the smart controller is connected via Wi-Fi or cellular service.

When building a Wi-Fi network, remember that the signal is sent out like televisions or radios. It comes from a single source called the Wireless Access Point. Most devices available to contractors will transmit at 5Ghz, which allows for a higher transmission of data.

Devices that send at 5Ghz have a maximum reach of about 200 feet. The Wi-Fi signal weakens inside a home the farther a phone is from the source. Similarly, that reach of 200 feet degrades significantly over the distance. Also similar to that home setup, physical objects between the source and the receiver cause the signal to break down faster. The more objects there are, the quicker the signal deteriorates.

Will Upton is the director of pro at Rachio, Denver. He suggests doing a simple test. This test ensures the necessary coverage is there to operate the controller.

“Before you start the process, one important step is to go to where the original timer is. Alternatively, go to where you’re going to put the timer. Check to make sure that you have about two bars of Wi-Fi,” Upton says. “You should be logged into the network. Check to see that you have about two bar signals. Then you should have enough bandwidth. You should have enough bandwidth if you’re logged into the network and have about two bar signals. This bandwidth will be sufficient to run any smart controller.”

As with any irrigation system installation, creating a map of Wi-Fi sources is crucial. Also, include repeaters installed on the property. This will help make maintenance and future upgrades run smoothly. Installers need to store this information securely. They must also ensure that any network access information is protected. This data contains clients’ private information.

Upton adds that in some instances, the client might feel more comfortable. This occurs if the installer uses the client’s phone to set up the system. This way, the installer does not need to gain access to the client’s network credentials.

Beyond testing the site’s connective-friendliness, another consideration that end users should keep in mind is security. Ensure the client knows that they must notify the servicing team. This is essential whenever there are changes in the network’s access and if the customer supplies the Wi-Fi network.

Upton says that it’s essential for the installer to ensure the controller is properly connected to the end users’ network. This guarantees ease of use. It also gives the users confidence to operate the controller via their smartphones. He says this is one of the big benefits of smart controllers. People know how to use an app. However, they might be intimidated by the traditional tactile setups of normal controllers.

Before you start the process, go to the location of the original timer. Alternatively, go to where you plan to put the timer. Check to make sure that you have about two bars of Wi-Fi.
– Will Upton, Rachio

“That contractor, being a pro, should be able to get that unit online for that homeowner,” says Upton. “That’s one of the reasons why they’re there. Once it’s online people are more able to use an app and trust an app much more.”

When properly installed and functioning, the capabilities of smart controllers can make a difference in a company’s business strength. They also help conserve resources, Upton says.

“I don’t care what manufacturer it is. If you adopt it and learn it, it drives efficiencies and drives money into the bottom line. It increases your routing and scheduling. It decreases footsteps and decreases everything. It then puts data stamps on when you were there as a contractor,” he says. “People don’t have to be home. It’s kind of a game-changer.”