Should I Convert to Smart Irrigation? A Look at Controllers & Moisture Sensors

Posted by Joe Mouad on Mar 18, 2020 1:53:21 PM

First, let’s answer the question we just posed: yes, you should switch to smart irrigation.

How can we answer so quickly? It’s pretty easy.

Whether you realize it or not, you’re likely wasting water. And here in Central Florida, with a year-round growing season, that can add up to a significant cost in your water bill.

Why Switch to Smart Irrigation? 

Outdated irrigation controllers, old sprayer heads, and valves that leak are all contributing to your water waste.

Aging irrigation systems often spray water where it isn’t even needed.

You’ve probably seen it — wet driveways, sidewalks, and sides of houses getting sprayed by out-of-whack sprinkler heads.

That makes no sense. But you don’t have time to constantly monitor your sprinkler system to see if it’s working efficiently.

Switch to a smart irrigation system, and it does it for you.

Here’s how:

Smart Irrigation Controllers 

This is the brain of your smart irrigation system.

Hunter Smart Irrigation

Smart irrigation controllers use data from sensors and local weather forecasts to deliver exactly the right amount of water just where your property needs it — with little waste.

Meanwhile, you can relax, knowing your controller is watering your property accurately and precisely, based on your property’s specific needs.

They go beyond perfect watering, too. Smart irrigation controllers detect any problems with your system and take action.

Say your current, outdated irrigation system has a broken line. Water can gush out all over your property for hours, without you even knowing.

When a smart irrigation controller detects a broken line, it turns your system off, right away.

Then it alerts your irrigation service company about the problem. Our irrigation techs can make the repairs before your precious lawn and plants start gasping for water. No need to call us. 

Smart Irrigation Sensors 

Smart irrigation systems also include moisture sensors that know when it’s raining. They tell your system to turn off. Why water the lawn when nature is doing it for you?

lawn with smart irrigation

Flow control sensors will learn how many gallons of water your system typically uses. If you’re suddenly using more — maybe a line is leaking — you’ll get an alert on your smartphone.

Smart irrigation sensors save you money. They save water. They keep your lawn and garden from getting too much water.

Smart irrigation sensors keep people from shaking their heads at how wasteful it is to have your sprinkler system chugging away during a downpour.

Smart Irrigation Timers

When it comes to watering your lawn, timing is everything.

Water for too long and that excess water can damage your lawn, causing disease and insect problems.

That extra water has to go somewhere. When the soil can’t absorb any more, the runoff flows to the nearest water source, taking pollutants right along with it.

If you don’t water enough, your lawn will turn brown. That pretty Asiatic Jasmine and Gold Mound Duranta will wilt and die in the Florida heat. 

How are you supposed to know exactly how much to water? It can be complicated. Different trees, shrubs, and plants on your property often have different water needs. And your lawn has its own water requirements.

landscape with smart irrigation

Relax. Smart irrigation timers work with your controller to give everything just the right amount of water, based on your lawn’s needs, your plants’ needs, and the current weather.

Smart irrigation systems let you devise custom watering schedules. Your lawn and plants will be happy and healthy. You won’t waste water or money.

Better yet, you control it all with a few taps on your smartphone, saving water and money. You can rest easy.

We told you it was smart.

Is Your Current Irrigation System Smart Enough? 

A professional irrigation audit can tell you.

Technicians can inspect your current system and tell you how much water you’re using and if it’s going to all the right places.

smart irrigation sprinkler head in grassAre your sprinkler system valves leaking water? Are your sprinkler heads spraying where they shouldn’t? Are any lines cracked or nozzles clogged? Is your lawn getting enough water? Or too much?

Why wonder?

Professional irrigation technicians can also spot any little problems that, unattended, can turn into big, costly issues later.

We can retrofit your current irrigation system with the latest smart technology, installing water-saving sprinkler heads, or set you up with brand new sprinkler installation. 

Trust Your Smart Irrigation System to Ground Source

if your lawn is struggling, your plants are wilting, and your water bill seems higher than it should be, it’s time to switch to a smart irrigation system.

We’d love to help. It’s a really brainy move. 

We’re smart irrigation experts, but our skills don’t stop there. We’re with you every step of the way as you plan your perfect outdoor space.

Sod, irrigation, landscape design: Let us transform your yard from an embarrassing eyesore to a place you spend every spare minute.

Are you ready to enjoy the vibrant, impressive yard you've always wanted? Request a quote today! We’ll help you review your options and then transform your property.

Request a Quote

6 Months Special Financing Available

Image source: irrigation controller

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