LIGHTING & IRRIGATION | ADVANTAGES OF SMART CONTROLLERS

THINK SMART

Toro Irrigation

A look at how smart controllers monitor the weather to save on time, money and water.

When it comes to keeping lawns and landscapes lush and healthy, water is essential. However, water is a precious commodity, so conserving it is a concern for everyone.

Irrigation systems are essential to help optimize water usage, but if you have ever driven by a home or business that has sprinklers on while it’s raining out, you’ve seen just how inefficient and wasteful some systems can be. Thanks to technology like smart irrigation controllers, having a thriving lawn while reducing water waste is easier and more economical than ever.

What is a smart controller?

A smart irrigation controller is like a smart thermostat for lawns and landscapes. It automatically and accurately adjusts to real-time weather conditions. Traditional irrigation controllers have basic, time-based programs that run on a schedule, even when it’s raining out.

Benefits of smart controllers

Smart controllers are constantly monitoring the weather inputs and adjusting irrigation to optimize the landscape without overuse or underuse of water. Many times, people in droughtprone areas like the West will completely shut off irrigation and let landscapes die because there isn’t enough water, but if you have a smart controller, you can most likely continue running the sprinklers while using water as efficiently as possible.

Once you set up your smart controller, you’re going to see about a third of your water saved.

Additionally, the smart controller makes seasonal adjustments to the irrigation based on the weather. For instance, in winter, if you didn’t have a smart controller, you’d have to remember to dial back the irrigation before it starts getting cold out.

Smart controllers also offer convenience and time savings since there’s no longer a need to keep driving by and checking on multiple irrigation sites during the day.

Smart irrigation controllers function like a thermostat so that end users don’t have to worry about watering schedules. Smart controllers monitor the weather to determine the most optimal water output for the landscape.

Are there any challenges?

Sometimes, homeowners or business owners hesitate to spend money on smart controllers. However, once they understand it won’t take long to see the payback on their investment, they agree it’s the right thing to do in the long run.

Some contractors hesitate to try them because they’ve been using a specific system for their entire career and that’s what they’re used to. The good news is that a smart controller is a simple add-on device that’s compatible with their existing system; the contractors don’t have to learn a whole new system, and the installation, setup and upkeep are very easy. It’s a useful addition to what they already use.

Are they worth it?

Yes, absolutely. Smart controllers save water, money and time. You’re also becoming a better steward of the environment. Water is a valuable resource, and conserving it is a sustainable strategy that can help you and your customers feel better about how you care for lawns and landscapes.

Matt Hall Marketing Manager The Toro Co.