Choosing the right irrigation controller video transcript
They're great time saving devices because you can set up your system in such a way to water your garden so it grows at it's best while still saving water at the same time. Irrigation controllers generally fit into one of three categories. Tap timers, standard timer controllers and Wi-Fi or ET smart controllers.
Tap timers are basic, often battery powered controllers that allow you to schedule watering times for a sprinkler system connected to your tap. Some models feature Bluetooth connectivity to your smartphone. However there is no weather monitoring or seasonal adjustment. Run times will need to be adjusted manually as and when you need to. These are best suited to small gardens or spaces where traditional irrigation isn't available.
Standard timer controllers have programmable run times for each individual station allowing you to program your controller to deliver the ideal 10 millimetre drink to your garden. They also usually have a seasonal adjustment setting and most can have a rain sensor added. However the sensor will only stop the controller from watering if it's raining at the time.
Smart controllers can achieve significant water savings as they access your local weather data and automatically adjust your sprinkler run times based on the forecast for temperature and rainfall, all within your watering days. They can be pre-programmed to automatically shut off during the winter months and the best part is that all of this can be viewed and controlled through cloud based software on your smart device.
Remember different sprinkler types have different application rates and their run times will need to be adjusted to apply the standard 10 millimetre drink.
If you're not sure how long to program each of your stations for or you need advice on which controller is best for you search for a water wise irrigator at watercorporation.com.au/waterwise