Smart controllers, also known as weather based controllers, are one of the many valuable water saving technologies available to help make landscape water usage more efficient. These devices are irrigation clocks that adjust the amount of water applied to a landscape in response to environmental changes. Using sensors and/or weather information, these controllers adjust your irrigation system automatically in response to rain, wind or temperature changes. Smart controllers can help reduce landscape water usage and in some cases can offer dramatic savings. They can also help you maintain a more healthy landscape. Smart controllers are becoming very popular in states like California which are experiencing severe water shortages. However, if used incorrectly this device may not give the desired water saving results.
Installing New Landscape. If new landscape is being installed, group plants into similar areas based on water needs. These areas, called hydrozones will help your plants receive the proper amount of water to meet their needs and help to maximize the efficiency of your controller because all the plants have the same water usage requirements. When selecting an irrigation system for your new landscape, take time to learn about the most efficient irrigation devices and about the water requirements of the plants being installed. Also consider including drought tolerant plants in your landscape design. A well-planned landscape incorporating advanced irrigation technology, drought resistant plants and a smart controller will see the most water savings. Smart controllers are an excellent tool to help reduce landscape water usage. When used and programmed properly, a smart controller can help you achieve substantial water savings.