In the United States, outdoor water usage averages more than 9 billion gallons daily. The majority of this is for lawn irrigation. Up to 50% of this water is lost due to overwatering because old, traditional sprinkler systems are inefficient. The practical solution is a smart sprinkler system.
Smart irrigation systems use a “smart” Controller, which automatically adjusts watering schedules and run times to fit particular lawn requirements and weather conditions. Smart sprinkler Controllers monitor weather, soil conditions, evaporation, and plant water use to automatically change the watering schedule accordingly, unlike traditional irrigation Controllers that work on a preset schedule and time.
Smart irrigation Controllers read site-specific factors like soil type, sprinkler application rate, rising outdoor temperatures, rainfall quantities, etc., to modify the watering schedules to ensure your landscape is neither overwatered nor underwatered. Smart Controllers come in different many configurations to fit your needs.
Types of Smart Sprinkler Controllers
There are two basic types of smart sprinkler Controllers. The ideal option for your lawn depends on your landscape condition and geographic location. Let’s have a look at what these two are and what they have to offer:
1. Weather-based
Weather-based Controllers, also known as evapotranspiration (ET) Controllers, adjust watering schedules based on local weather data. These Controllers monitor local weather conditions and adjust sprinkler runtimes accordingly to ensure the right amount of water is applied to your yard.
2. Soil moisture sensors
Smart sprinkler Controllers with soil moisture sensors (SMSs) measure the quantity of moisture in the soil. Sensors accurately measure the soil moisture level when buried in the root zone of turf, trees, or shrubs, sending this reading to the Controller, and irrigating only when the soil is dry.
Benefits of Smart Sprinkler Systems
Upgrading your irrigation system with a smart Controller offers many benefits:
1. Water savings
Experts agree that smart irrigation systems and Controllers conserve water compared to traditional sprinklers. In fact, research shows significant water savings of between 30-50%.
2. Smart scheduling
A smart sprinkler Controller can create your entire irrigation schedule for you. Additionally, it can adjust the schedule to weather conditions before you even think about it. Some Controllers are entirely automatic, while others have moderate predictability. All can allow you to do everything manually as with a traditional sprinkler Controller.
3. Ease-of-use
Smart sprinklers are extremely simple to use and can make your life easier. They are designed to replace old and conventional sprinkler systems and allow you to configure watering schedules, view a watering calendar, and turn your sprinklers on or off with the push of a button. Some smart irrigation systems can even be activated by voice while others have an application associated with them that you can use on your phone.
Get the Austex Sprinklers Smart Advantage
Install a smart Controller to your irrigation system in Austin, TX and enjoy its benefits! To make sure the system is effective, the Controller must be programmed correctly. Austex Sprinklers will work with you to design an ideal watering schedule that meets your lawn needs and is within your local guidelines.
Call us today for more information at: 512.721.8564. Or, email us at: info@austexsprinklers.com
