A guide to popular irrigation controllers

Hunter Hydrawise

This smart irrigation controller automatically adjusts watering using accurate local weather data. You set your run times and landscaping details, and as the weather changes the system updates your schedule to deliver the right amount of water. Easy.

• Simple control: Fitted with a touchscreen and can be managed through an app on your phone or tablet, so you can monitor and adjust watering remotely.
• Where it fits: Available for both residential and commercial use. An internet connection is required to access climate information. 
• Know your flow: Add the optional flow meter to track how much water each zone uses and get alerts if high flows occur, like from a leak.

Galcon 7000 series

A user-friendly, battery-operated automatic controller with 1 to 3 stations, this series is perfect for small-scale landscapes. Single-station models can attach directly to your garden tap, while the multi-station versions are fully waterproof and ideal for in-ground installation.

• Bluetooth connectivity: Featured on the latest models, you can manage your watering easily through an app on your smartphone or tablet.
• Easy to use: Settings are simple to customise and can even sync across multiple Galcon 7000 controllers.
• Staying dry: Best of all, with the app you don’t have to dash out in the rain to turn off your irrigation or hunt for a hidden controller buried under your plants.

Toro DCC series

This popular battery-operated controller can be found in many Darwin homes. It’s the next step up from a basic automated tap timer, offering more features and flexibility for both residential and commercial irrigation systems. Available in 4, 6 or 8 station models, this model gives you greater control with features like:

• Independent multiple programmable run times for each station
• Seasonal watering adjustments from 0–200%
• Ability to connect with rain sensor technology

For tougher environments, there’s a waterproof version - perfect for unprotected areas that need a bit more durability.

Hunter X-Core 

You’d be hard-pressed to find someone in Darwin who hasn’t seen or used one of these at home. A favourite with locals, this model manages up to 8 stations with 3 programs and 4 start times, giving plenty of flexibility for different gardens and setups - all through an easy-to-use interface.

Features include:

• Runs on mains power and includes a backup battery for peace of mind
• Seasonal watering adjustments
• Programmable rain delay
• Compatibility with a range of climate sensors

There’s also an outdoor version with a heavy-duty, lockable cover to protect it from moisture and UV damage.

Irritrol Rain Dial R series

Designed with commercial landscapes in mind, this series packs in plenty of features while still being simple to operate. It controls up to 12 stations with 3 programs and 3 start times, giving you the flexibility to tailor watering schedules to a variety of gardens and conditions.

Latest models include:

• Wireless weather-sensing technology
• Working with optional rain and soil moisture sensors for even smarter watering.

The outdoor version comes with a lockable, weather-resistant cover and built-in electrical surge protection, perfect for handling those unpredictable Top End storms.