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The Orbit B-hyve Smart Sprinkler is designed for use with a traditional hose. While it controls only a single hose, you can attach a multiple-faucet sillcock to your exterior faucet and add an Orbit controller to each head for more watering options. No, setting up a smart sprinkler controller is a straightforward task that anyone can handle. All manufacturers provide a manual with step by step instructions on how to install the controller. In some instances, the producers offer video tutorials that will guide you through the entire process.
The Wyze Sprinkler Controller is full of customizable and intuitive features that water your yard efficiently, helping to keep the grass green while saving you money. It is super affordable at only $60 for a four-zone controller or $78 for eight zones. Though it lacks a touchscreen and some of the more advanced features of other controllers on this list, it can simplify the use of an in-ground sprinkler system. It automatically adjusts the watering schedule based on local weather and can be used with Google Assistant and Alexa.
Orbit B-hyve Indoor/Outdoor Controller
Smart irrigation controllers are built with software that receives weather updates regularly, permitting the system to change watering schedules depending on prevailing weather conditions. Unnecessary watering is eliminated by this factor allowing you to save water and other resources needed for the process. Predictive watering technology utilizes local data to adjust the preset schedule based on projected temperature ranges, probability of rainfall, humidity, and wind.
The sleek, honeycomb-patterned device will be just at home inside your garage or mounted near your electric meter, making it one of the most versatile options on the list from an installation standpoint. Though it’s important to note that Orbit promises easy installation if your existing sprinkler controller is inside, you’ll need to route those wires outdoors if that’s where you want it installed. From a conservation perspective—and that of saving money on your water bills—smart controllers are critical. All of the models we tested are WaterSense certified; similar to the Energy Star program for home appliances, the WaterSense program involves testing products to the EPA’s specifications for water efficiency and performance. Some water utilities offer rebates if you install WaterSense irrigation controllers; rebates can cover a large portion of the cost of the device. There are a few aspects of smart sprinkler controllers you should take into account when making a decision.
The Best Smart Sprinkler Controller of December: Reviews by Experts
A smart sprinkler controller allows you to adjust your lawn watering schedules from an app on your phone, using a more intuitive and streamlined interface than any onboard buttons could hope to give you. You’ll also get connected to local weather stations so your sprinklers won’t run if rain is expected, and you can even set it to automatically adjust your schedule as the seasons change. To give you an idea of the best smart sprinkler controllers out there, we compiled some of the top options. Netro’s Spark smart sprinkler controller offers a touchscreen with basic on-device controls and support for 16 zones. It has some great features other controllers don’t offer, such as options to specify the species of plants in your garden and to customize rain delays up to three days before and after rainfall to maximize water savings.
However, that automatic weather adjustment functionality requires a Wyze Sprinkler Plus subscription . And though Wyze has gotten better over the years at developing app walk-throughs, wiring this up to your existing sprinkler controller will take some patience—think of it like wiring a smart thermostat. Overall, the Wyze ecosystem is a great choice if you want to dip your toes into the smart sprinkler landscape without dropping a few hundred bucks.
Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller
It can manage 8 zones and has a long range Bluetooth connectivity as well as autonomous weather adjusting feature. They automate the task of opening and closing individual valves, like a traditional electronic or manual sprinkler controller. What makes them "smart" is their ability to connect to the internet for weather data, create custom schedules, and send you notifications. They’re also good if you have a lawn you want to put on autopilot so that it doesn’t brownout. There are also smart hose timers, which work similarly to smart sprinkler controllers, but are meant be used with garden hoses instead of in-ground irrigation systems. A smart sprinkler controller is one of the easiest ways to revive your lawn or garden for warmer weather, offering modern convenience for fully automating your in-ground irrigation system.
This company is one of the most well-known manufacturers of smart sprinkler systems. The brand’s XR helps take the stress and guesswork out of worrying about watering too much or too little. Its 16 zones should be plenty for the average setup, both indoor and outdoor, and it’s fully waterproof and weatherproof. There are basic controls on the unit itself, connecting up to WiFi is easy, and there’s even a 900MHz radio to communicate with other accessories. A worthy intelligent irrigation system controller should be able to water between six and 16 zones. It should be WaterSense-certified, which means it meets the EPA's requirements for water efficiency.
Best touch-screen smart sprinkler controller: RainMachine
Always consult your owner’s handbook for precise instructions, as some use knobs and others are digital with touch screens. Most homeowners can complete the installation in three hours or less with only basic electrical knowledge. If you choose to hire someone to install the controller, make certain that they are licensed, insured, and bonded. With the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller, your water costs will be reduced and your yard will always look great. Additionally, you will be sure to deliver all the water your plants require with no worries about your plants becoming thirsty.
There are 12 zones of control for reasonably sized yards, an onboard rain and flow sensor for extra adjustments, and local weather station integration to ensure you’re never wasting water. The Touch HD-12 is a bit more cumbersome to install than some other options due to its more significant but necessary power draw, and it’s an indoor-only controller. Still, if you want plenty of options on a display itself, this is the way to go.
When the system is operating, water spurts or pools at the extended riser of the sprinkler indicate the need to be replaced. Digging a hole around a sprinkler head and down to the lateral line and riser is necessary to investigate if the leak appears to originate underground. The Orbit B-Hyve XR is one of the only controllers that can handle a wired, multi-zone sprinkler system while being exposed to the elements, thanks to its integrated waterproof shell. Additionally, with this sprinkler controller, there are no hidden fees or subscriptions. B-hyve is also EPA WaterSense accredited to conserve water, and your local utility or water company may be able to offer incentives.
The Netro 8’s Smartzone functionality is dependent on not just your local weather, but local watering regulations as well. Depending on how much you need to water your lawn to keep things lush, this may or may not be an issue. The same goes for the optional Netro Whisperer, a plant sensor that will boost the Netro Spark's capabilities but is an additional cost.
If you’ve already installed an in-ground irrigation system, it likely has a standard control panel with buttons, dials, and scheduling functions. If you want to convert that control panel into a smart controller, it’s crucial to ensure that your system is compatible. Many manufacturers have compatibility checkers on their websites to verify compatibility before purchasing.
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