Sprinkler controller or timer can make your irrigation system even more efficient. It is responsible for when and how long the sprinkler system is on for. Installing a good controller can help you keep your garden or landscape well-maintained. Plus, it will save you a lot of time.
Its important to find the right controller as there are so many options available. Choosing the right one will ensure better results and make it easy for you. You also need the best Hunter sprinkler dealers in your area for the right installation service.
So, the next question is how to recognize what type of timer you need.
Here is everything you need to know about choosing the perfect sprinkler controller:
What is a sprinkler controller?
If you have never heard of sprinkler controller, its better start from the beginning. Sprinkler controller also goes by the name sprinkler times as they control the timing of the system. The timers send electric signal to the sprinkler valves on how much water is needed and for how long. It’s mainly used for regulating the flow of water.
There are all sorts of sprinkler controller from simple to advanced. Some features allow you more control while others simply allow the time management. Depending on what you are looking for, you can choose from various options. You can choose the controller as per the size and level of control you need.
Make sure that you find the right Hunter sprinkler dealers for installation as it is the key to efficient watering.
Types of Sprinkler Controllers
You need to first know the various type of controllers so that you can choose as per your needs. Some are basic and some are advanced.
Basically, there are 3 types of sprinkler controllers: mechanical, electronic and hybrid timers.
More details about each type of controller is here:
- Mechanical Controller
As the name suggest, this type of controller is the most basic type and you need to manually set the timer. You have to be very careful with this system as you don’t want over watering or underwatering. You need keep an eye on the areas where you need water and where you don’t. The best thing about this type of controller is its affordable. If you are looking for something that is budget-friendly and easy to use, go for the mechanical controller.
- Electronic Timers
Electronic timers are better and more efficient. They do come with lot more options than the mechanical ones. The best part of electronic timer is that you can control it from your smartphone or computer. You can easily adjust the time and water flow as the weather.
It’s perfect for sprinkler irrigation system and will save a lot of time and effort. You don’t have to think about watering the garden and stress about it. Simply set the timer and go on about your life. If the weather demands change in the watering needs, you can simply do it from anywhere.
- Hybrid Controllers
The hybrid controllers or timers for the sprinkler system provides the best of both the worlds. You can set the timer and flow or water with manual features like sliders. At the same time, you can get the digital readouts and use other electronic controls to control the sprinkler irrigation system. This is perfect for people who don’t want to wait for the technicians to arrive when the features don’t work. They can manually handle the sprinkler system.
Look for the Zone Control Features
Not all parts of the garden or landscape needs the same amount of water. Some parts like the grass may need more watering than the individual plants. You can set the sprinkler system as per the zones. The area can be divided into different zones as per the watering needs and use the same valve.
Irrigation valve can control different zones. This way you can control how much water is provided to each zone. If you have a large area and need to control the water distribution, look for controllers that provide these features.
Look for a controller that will allow you to control water schedules for different zones easily. You can set timer for different zones without any hassle. This will help save a lot of water and prevent unwanted wastage.
Advanced Features
Look for timers that come with additional features, such as sunlight sensors and in-built calendar. These features will provide more efficiency and control than the other types of controllers. Some of the advanced features can really help you customize the settings as per your needs. It doesn’t matter how large or small your garden area is, controllers can help you provide efficient watering to different zones.
Here are some of the advanced features to look for in a sprinkler system controller:
- Look for features like the skip button that will allow you to skip a zone without bothering to reprogram the entire system. This will save you a lot of time.
- Time interval features allows you to set the days you want the sprinkler to water and skip the days you don’t want them to water. This can be done with an in-built calendar system. This way, you can also set the weeks you want the watering to happen.
- Sunlight sensor is a helpful feature that allows you to control the amount of water is used as the weather condition. Extra watering will be done when it’s hot and evaporation is likely. Likewise, on rainy days, the controller will shut the sprinkler system.
It is important to keep the controller in a safe place where it cannot be harmed from heavy wind or sunlight or rain.
Smart Timers
Smart timers are more flexible and come with many advanced features. If you want to save time, smart timers are the best option. You can actually use the smart timers for a variety of purposes.
Here are some of the best features of smart timers you need to look for:
- The smart timers can be controlled with computer, tables and phones. You can easily control them from anywhere and anytime.
- You can easily control the water flow as per the season, weather condition and availability of water.
- You can control the system from other devices, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Nest and more.
- With smart timers, you will get real time notifications and you can control the features as per your needs.
Importance of Sprinkler Timers
Installing the sprinkler timers can help you stay efficient. You can save a lot of time with the help of a timer. You can easily set the time and duration of watering as the needs and get the best results. You don’t have to manually do anything. In case you forget, you can easily do it from your phone or computer.
The best thing about the timer is that it can help you save a lot water. Some areas need less water, while others need more. With zoning features, you can control the amount of water each zone gets. There will be less water wastage.
You can choose from a wide range of timers and controllers for your sprinkler system. More advanced features mean more control and efficiency.
The Bottom-line
Make your sprinkler system more efficient with the right timer or controller. Choose the one that matches your needs and enjoy the benefits it has to offer.
If you are looking for the best Hunter sprinkler dealers, Hunter Irrigation Services offers a customized solution you can trust. We ensure fast and reliable service in less time. Give us a call when you need the best installation service in Austin – 512-690-3113.