The benefits of smart irrigation & why you should invest in these systems
The irrigation industry is experiencing a surge in technology development. Contractors can find irrigation technologies that use advanced sensors, WIFI, and app-based capabilities to automatically adjust watering schedules, communicate problems, and save water. This gives you more data and power to control irrigation systems than ever before.
Save Water, Save Money, Save Time
The days of being beholden to a clock and calendar are over. We are now using real-time data to apply the right amount of water at the right time of day. Smart irrigation systems irrigate landscapes efficiently because they use technology to know when and how much to irrigate. By investing in smart irrigation technologies, you can be sure to save water, money, and time in caring for your landscape projects.
Three Technologies Worth Sharing
Here are three irrigation technologies worth showing your clients for their next upgrade:
Weather-based controller
These controllers adjust the irrigation schedule based on local weather conditions. There is a wide range of products in this category with various weather inputs and landscape-specific adjustment factors. These controllers self-adjust and require very little intervention when programmed correctly.
Sensor-based controller
These controllers rely on soil moisture sensors placed below ground in the root zones of the landscape to determine if and for how long to water. Systems with a sensor-based controller can be scheduled to run based on soil moisture and the specific water needs of your landscape.
An example is installing the Rain Bird SMRT-Y soil moisture sensor and connecting it to the irrigation controller.
Rain/freeze sensors
Irrigating in rain and freezing conditions needlessly wastes water and can damage your landscape. Rain sensors prevent irrigation systems from running during rainy conditions. Rain/freeze sensors add the ability to stop irrigation when temperatures approach freezing to prevent damage to the plants. These devices can reduce overall water usage and help extend the irrigation system’s life.
Hunter’s Solar Sync for example is compatible ACC, ICC, Pro-C, I-Cor and X-Core product lines and can provide rain, freeze, wind and flow control.
Irrigation Certification
One size does not fit all, so consult with a certified irrigation professional when you’re ready to provide upgrades. To find an IA-certified professional to design, install, maintain, or audit your irrigation system, contact your local Wolf Creek Branch.
July is Smart Irrigation Month
July is Smart Irrigation Month. The Irrigation Association website offers technical resources and plenty of materials that you can use to educate yourself and your customers. You may even want to become a certified irrigation professional yourself. Check it out!
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