Technology has made it easier for us to handle both simple and hard chores within the home with minimal hassle. Watering the lawn and garden is among the tedious tasks that have been simplified by technological advancements, and in this review, we look at some of the best smart sprinkler controllers in the market that will make your work easier, help you save time, energy, and other resources.
Brand new technologies are making an entry into the market, and the already existing manufacturers are also upgrading their systems to meet the demands of the consumers. We look at eight of the best smart sprinkler controllers herein. The Editors Choice in this review is a Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller, which has desirable features and adjustments necessary for maintaining and watering system.
This sprinkler is compatible with a variety of valves and mobile operating systems, which are fundamental for its functionality. It is equipped with the Hyperlocal Weather Intelligence that will automatically cancel a watering session when it’s raining, or freezing. Easy DIY installation is possible with this Alexa compatible model, and the in-app tutorial makes the entire process effortless.
In our assessment, we look at some of the key features that are crucial in a home sprinkler controller system. Dimensions, usage, number of zones, warranty, and compatibility are some of the characteristics that we pay attention to. Additionally, we include a comparison table, in-depth reviews of each of the eight products, and a buying guide to help you get the best fit for your home.
More features: different number of zones option available; weather intelligence; easy to install; works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit️; customized zones
This brand is a leader in the industry, thanks to the Hyperlocal Weather Intelligence technology that the design embraces. This feature allows the Rachio smart home sprinkler controller to manage the watering of the garden and lawn with an awareness of the prevailing weather conditions; therefore, a significant reduction in water waste.
Smartphone control with a watering assistant makes management and monitoring of the process effective and fast, and the water bill is cut by between 30%-50% since the controller can ration the usage. The Rachio app allows for scheduling, and this, coupled with the automatic weather update, makes maintaining a lawn or garden easier than it has even been.
The Rachio home sprinkler controller is compatible with an array of smart devices. Any Android operating system that is 4.4 and above and iOS10.3+ can be used with this model. It has a total of eight zones and is ideal for outdoor usage. The customized zones feature provides critical info on the type of soil in your locale as well as suggestions on plants that will do well.
Some of the software that this home sprinkler is compatible with include Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple homeKit, which makes connectivity and operation stress-free.
More features: WeatherSense Tech, simple programming, strong Wi-Fi connection, smart design, auto adjusts to weather
The Orbit 57985 Smart Sprinkler Controller is one of the few innovations in the market that offer the best-in-class watering experience. The unit is a highly acclaimed winner of the CES innovation award. It is ideal for outdoor and indoor use and installs pretty easily. The most exciting thing about the smart sprinkler controller is its WeatherSense technology. It receives the local weather data and adjusts the controller to deliver the right amount of water to the plants. In essence, the controller automatically adjusts to the weather changes, including freeze delays and wind.
You will enjoy using the Orbit 57985 Smart Sprinkler Controller on the b-have app. You can control everything from the app, including setting duration times, creating watering schedules, and getting alerts on your smartphone. Thanks to its long-range Bluetooth connectivity, it will take you seconds to pair and get started. You can also control the sprinkler controller with the built-in manual watering override button on the timer. It allows you to start and stop watering without the B-hyve app. Further, you will be able to see your timer status on the LED light ring and three full-color digital displays.
Best of all, B-Hyve is EPA WaterSense certified to save water. Also, it is likely to be eligible for rebates from your local water or utility agency.
More features: EPA WaterSense certified; connects to Wi-Fi; ecofriendly; water restriction
Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller is a fully automatic system that has been received well by the intended audience. This smart lawn sprinkler is for indoor use only, and this must be adhered to during installation. This sprinkler control system connects to Wi-Fi, monitors, and portable smart devices such as phones and tablets that use the iOS 8.3 and above while Android compatibility requires the version to be five and above.
The Netro app allows multiple devices and users; hence all household members in your home can take part in tending the garden from wherever they are. Alerts regarding water restriction in your jurisdiction are availed by the application keeping you up to date with compliances and other issues.
You can control your lawn sprinklers with this system remotely provided you have internet access. It allows you to custom your watering plan around your budget and other factors crucial to the chore at hand.
This system keeps track of the watering duration, frequency, and history, allowing you to stay within your watering budget. Water-saving and weather-related technologies are used in this design, making it eco-friendly.
More features: predictive watering adjustments; wiring detection and alerts; touchscreen interface
This Hunter Outdoor Professional Grade Controller is among the best smart lawn sprinkler controller in the market. Although the compatibility is not specified, it works with an array of devices that you are likely to have within your home.
It is built for outdoor use, and it can serve a total of six zones. The touchscreen interface makes the operation of the device seamless. The outdoor case is manufactured with weather-resistant material, which ensures durability and that the invention is not affected by external factors in its normal functioning.
The Hydrawise central control system allows for remote access to the device enabling easy management and monitoring, especially for contractors handling several projects in diverse localities. Installing a flow meter enhances the performance of this device as it sends alerts on any issues regarding the system as soon as it occurs.
Predictive watering technology utilizes local data to adjust the preset schedule based on projected temperature ranges, probability of rainfall, humidity, and wind. If you are looking for a sprinkler controller that ensures maximum water savings while keeping your garden and lawn or that of clients lush, then this might be the right fit for you.
More features: compatible with Alexa; easy to program; watering delay feature; EPA WaterSense certified; improved Wi-Fi connection; fully customizable
Rain Bird is a renowned company popular for its irrigation systems designed to conserve water and nurture a beautiful landscape. This model features the new and improved 2.0 Wi-Fi timer, which is an upgrade from its ST81-WIFI outdated predecessor.
This design is suitable for indoor use only, and it caters to a total of eight zones. The device is easy to control and allows remote access to the system from anywhere in the world; all you need is a Wi-Fi connection. With this in mind, you can take a vacation with your family without worrying about your garden or lawn dying while you are away.
Devices featuring the Android 4.4 (KitKat) version and iOS 8 and above are compatible with this model, which is rated among the best smart Wi-Fi sprinkler controllers currently in stores. The Rain Bird app brings all the control functions of this system to the palm of your hands. You can control the watering process easily and know what is going on in your home even when away since the app notifies you of any changes. This model is EPA WaterSense certified, ensuring that you save water and cash. The daily schedules are adjusted accordingly by the system based on the current weather conditions.
More features: compatible with Alexa; personal data stored locally; smart schedule; free weather data; WaterSense Certified
RainMachine is a reputable brand whose integration with various home hub systems is diverse. Alexa, Apple HomeKit, SmartThings, and Home Assistant, among others, are compatible with this smart sprinkler control system.
This brand has a sum of sixteen zones, and it is built for an indoor set-up. It is compatible with an array of devices, including iPhones, Android devices, and pcs, enabling you and your family to monitor the watering of the lawn with minimal issues. iOS and Android apps have also been released to give a seamless experience to you if you get this device. Editing zones, start, stop, and pause actions can be carried out remotely using the app.
This RainMachine design receives regular weather forecasts from renowned sources such as NOAA, NetAtmo, and Wunderground, among others. The updates allow the system to calculate how much water the garden or lawn will require nourishment. The major pro of this brand of sprinkler controller is that it continues to function even when the Wi-Fi is having issues. This device is EPA WaterSense certified, and it is eligible for rebates in certain localities.
More features: timer control; easy to install; saves water; voice control; works with Alexa; EPA Certified; needs Wi-Fi
The B-hyve Wi-Fi Sprinkler System Controller is usable both outdoors and indoors. It is one of the best outdoor smart Wi-Fi sprinkler controllers available in the market for competitive rates. It has a total of six zones, and the installation process is straightforward.
The manufacturers release into the market this device alongside an application available for android and iOS users. The app allows for easy supervision and control of the system remotely. Weather sense technology makes it possible for the system to control watering based on site conditions. Automatic adjustments are made by this device based on the current weather forecast.
This model comes in a water-resistant case that allows for either indoors or outdoors installation. The device is certified and approved by EPA WaterSense; hence, you can save water, energy, and the bills incurred on the same by a considerable amount.
This B-hyve Wi-Fi Sprinkler System Controller is compatible with Alexa, and this helps trigger the voice control feature for easy control within the home. The model is eligible for local rebates, which can cover the initial cost of purchase.
More features: HD security camera included; compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant; EPA WaterSense certified; easy to install; motion repellent
This smart sprinkler from Yardian has more than one benefit in your home. It not only waters your garden but also doubles up as a surveillance gadget that you can use to keep track of the comings and goings in your home. The inbuilt HD camera monitors both day and night, and it has sensors that alert you when someone or something approaches your door.
Watering during the rain is something that happens when devices used cannot detect the current weather, but it is something that you can avoid this type of wastage when you buy this Yardian smart sprinkler controller. Real-time weather monitoring is possible due to the tech used, and this provides an outline of watering that is accurate.
It is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, which allows you to control all the eight zones that the device has and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. The manufacturer has not specified the device’s compatibility with other systems. This model has a skip rules feature, which has four provisions to overwrite the smart or manual scheduling, and this helps conserves water.
You must know the basic features of smart irrigation controllers and what roles each of them play in the watering of your lawn and garden. In this section, we look at the essential elements that one ought to have in mind and why they are vital.
Smart sprinkler controllers are gradually taking the place of manual ones. To learn more about the best sprinkle controllers read our article. There are numerous benefits that you choose when you decide to upgrade or buy a new system for your home. Wi-Fi sprinkler controllers are ideal for both home and professional use. Some of the advantages of using smart sprinkler controllers are discussed below.
A smart irrigation system has features that control the amount of water used in your yard. EPA WaterSense certified models are known to cut wastage by at least twenty percent, which is why they come highly recommended. A reduction in waste has a direct impact on the amount of money used to cater to the water bill.
Smart irrigation controllers are built with software that receives weather updates regularly, permitting the system to change watering schedules depending on prevailing weather conditions. Unnecessary watering is eliminated by this factor allowing you to save water and other resources needed for the process.
Lawns and gardens require the right amount of water for their growth, and smart irrigation controllers make that a reality. The designers of these services put in work to ensure that the systems can detect the soil type and current weather conditions, among other factors using the address you input. Under or over, watering becomes outdated when you decide to use gadgets from this family. Also, some models, such as the Editor’s Choice in this evaluation, the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller, gives suggestions on some of the vegetation that will thrive in your locality for a healthy and beautiful lawn and garden.
Wi-Fi sprinkler controllers work with smart devices giving you and other users a chance to monitor and manage your watering schedule while away from home. You can start, pause, or stop preset watering while on transit provided you are connected to the internet.
Some of the features that you ought to be aware of as you shop for the best smart sprinkler controller are discussed below.
The dimensions of a smart sprinkler controller are crucial to know before a purchase is made.
Knowing this aspect prepares you for the room that the device will take in your home, especially for indoor installation.
The ideal place to set up your smart irrigation system is a factor that you must be aware of before buying. The different brands available for sale in various stores are designed for either outdoor or indoor usage.
Some models allow for usage in the house or outside, and it may be a suitable pick for those who haven’t decided on where to install their system.
Sprinkler systems are made of compound zones of tubing and heads. The system sends water to one zone at any given time since most homes do not have the water pressure to supply all of them at a go. The nature of your watering needs will determine the number of zones that you will require in a controller. Some devices have as low as six zones, while others have more than that. The Hunter Outdoor Professional Grade Controller is an example of devices that have six zones.
The system you buy for your home ought to be compatible with the hardware that you have or that which you can purchase without upsetting your budget.
Smartphones and home hub systems such as Alexa and Google assistant are among those that you must check compatibility with.
Electrical devices are bound to malfunction or have a defect, which is why you must check the guarantee offered by the manufacturer and the terms of the same. Most of the models we have reviewed do not have this information, but some manufacturers allow you to request it before making a purchase. Rain Bird ST8I-2.0 Smart Indoor Sprinkler Controller is a brand whose warranty is available upon request.
The models we discuss above are among the finest in the market, and they embrace technological advancements emerging every day. The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller stole the show in our assessment due to its multiple features that make it practical and easy to use. This model has eight zones that can be customized and operates with weather intelligence software that helps reduce the amount of water used. Additionally, it is compatible with an assortment of operating systems and home hubs such as Alexa. Coming in second is the Orbit 57985 Smart Sprinkler Controller, which is designed for indoor and outdoor installation, and is very easy to set up and use. It can manage 8 zones and has a long range Bluetooth connectivity as well as autonomous weather adjusting feature. The Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller, which is the third best smart sprinkler controller in our review, is eco-friendly, EPA WaterSense certified, compatible with multiple operating systems, and can be controlled on numerous devices.
