Frequently Asked Questions
How does a “smart” controller save my clients money?
A “smart” controller saves money by reducing water usage. Specific water savings will depend on how much your clients may have over-watered in the past, but pilot studies have shown typical water savings to be in the range of 20%-40% annually. Read about some of these case studies.
In addition, landscapes that are watered appropriately are healthier and less likely to suffer from fungal disease and insect infestations that can require costly treatment, potentially saving your clients even more money.
Are there other benefits that “smart” controllers offer my clients?
In addition to reducing outdoor water use and saving money, “smart” controllers also make landscape irrigation easier and more convenient. Traditional irrigation timers require manual adjustments every time the weather changes. “Smart” controllers automatically adjust the watering schedule based on local weather/site conditions. So, once the initial setup and monitoring is complete, there's no need for you or your clients to reset the controller. The “smart” controller makes adjustments automatically.
How can I get trained and certified in the installation of “smart” controllers?
Talk to your local irrigation distributors and ask about “smart” controller training that may be available in your area. Also contact your local water purveyor, as they may require additional specialized training.
The Irrigation Association offers both training courses and professional industry certification programs. For more information, click here.
How much do “smart” controllers cost?
The cost of “smart” controllers varies according to the number of zones and features in the controller model selected. A general range is slightly more to three times that of a comparable conventional controller. In addition, some weather station-adjusted controllers require a small monthly or annual fee for transmission of daily weather information. Other, internal sensor-based “smart” controllers rarely require transmission fees.
How have these products been tested?
Manufacturers of “smart” controllers rigorously test their products before releasing them for sale. In addition, the Irrigation Association has developed an independent third party testing protocol specific to “smart” controllers. Review the results of these tests.
There have also been numerous field tests on various “smart” controllers. Read about some of these case studies.