What is a smart irrigation controller?

What’s a smart irrigation controller?
It’s a clever device that adjusts watering automatically based on local weather. When it rains, it turns your irrigation down or off, saving water and keeping your garden healthier. You can monitor and tweak it anytime through an app or web portal, even while on holiday.

How does it work?
It uses live weather data and responds to set triggers, like turning off after 10mm of rain or watering more on hot days. You or your irrigation expert can fine-tune these settings to suit your garden.

Why bother with a smart controller?
It saves time, water, and money, usually cutting water use by at least 20%. Your garden stays lush, your bills drop, and leak alerts or flow monitoring mean no more surprise water wastage. Plus, it’s all managed from your phone or computer.

Is installation tricky?
You’ll need Wi-Fi, a user account, and a watering schedule with weather triggers. It’s best to get an irrigation pro to install and set it up right. That way, your system runs smoothly from day one.

What should I look for when buying one?
Think about how many garden zones you’ll water, Wi-Fi strength, app access, and whether it supports a flow meter for leak alerts. Make sure it’s easy to use and check if there are any subscription costs. An irrigation expert can guide you to the right fit.

What weather trigger settings work best?
Each model will have different functions for entering triggers, most will have a section for actual weather events and a section for predictive weather events. 

Living Water Smart recommends:

• Turn off watering after 10mm of rain.
• Reduce irrigation by 50% after 5mm of rain.
• Skip watering if 7-day rainfall exceeds 30mm.
• Increase irrigation by 20% if forecast temps top 35°C.
• Delay watering if wind speeds over 50km/h are forecast.
• Delay irrigation when chance of rain is over 95%.

Should I add a flow meter?
That’s a great idea. It tracks water use, spots leaks, and alerts you to breakages early - saving both your garden and your wallet.

Where can I buy one?                                                
From any irrigation supplier or retailer. Just check for a warranty and installation support. A professional can help you choose the best option for your setup.

How much do they cost, and when do they pay off?
They range from around $150 to $750 depending on size and features. Most pay for themselves within one to five years through lower water bills.

What’s the difference between standard and smart controllers?
Standard controllers follow a set schedule - rain or shine. Smart controllers use weather data to adjust automatically, saving up to 50% on water while keeping your garden thriving.

How are tap timers different?
Tap timers are battery-powered and usually control one line. Standard controllers are mains-powered and run multiple lines, making them easy to upgrade to smart systems.

Can I upgrade from tap timers to a smart controller?
You can, but you’ll need an irrigation specialist to install valves, backflow prevention, and Wi-Fi access. Once set up, you’ll have full smart control and much less manual watering.