Best Automatic Irrigation Controllers in 2022

Last update: December 23, 2022

Are Hunter irrigation controllers good?

Hunter irrigation controllers are some of the most popular on the market. They are known for their reliability and ease of use. Many people choose Hunter because of their reputation as a leading manufacturer of quality irrigation products.

Are irrigation systems worth it?

If you have a large garden or lawn, an irrigation system can be a real time-saver. It can also help you to keep your plants healthy and your lawn looking green and lush. There are a few things to consider before you install an irrigation system, such as the size of your property and the type of soil you have.

Are smart irrigation controllers worth it?

Yes, smart irrigation controllers are definitely worth it! Not only do they save you water and money, but they also reduce your carbon footprint.

Can I control my sprinklers from my phone?

Yes, you can control your sprinklers from your phone. There are a few different ways to do this, but the most common is to use a Smartphone app. There are a few different Smartphone apps that you can use to control your sprinklers, but the most popular one is the “RainMachine” app. This app allows you to control your sprinklers from your phone, and it also allows you to set up a schedule so that your sprinklers will turn on and off automatically.


Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller, Works with Alexa, 8 Zone Review:


This is my first Rachio device, which I bought following the recommendations of my brother and next-door neighbor who both already possess earlier models. I'm pleased I followed their suggestion because this controller is fantastic. It is beautifully made, has simple to follow directions, was extremely simple to install, and the software for your smartphone is really thoughtfully built.I've used this gadget for about three weeks, and I'm extremely pleased with the outcomes. The hyper-intelligent device can be operated in a manual or automated manner as desired. You may set it up to monitor the weather in your area and let it decide when and how much to water, or you can run it every day exactly when you wish. My home has a personal weather station, and I've connected my Rachio to the PWS to access the weather information. Smart watering is dependent on the actual amount of rain that falls at my place rather than some far-off meteorological station.It is clear that Rachio did their research and designed a high-quality product that functions superbly. You can operate anything from the controller itself or the equally fantastic app on your phone. You can quickly determine whether the system is online, connected to wi-fi, and actively watering a zone. Up to 8 zones are supported by this device. Since I only have 6, I've removed the final two from my setup. You can control anything with an Amazon Echo if you have one, but if you utilize HomeKit like I do, that feature is still in the works. I'm hoping that feature will be available soon, but to be completely honest, the controller is already so automated that the voice control capability isn't all that useful. I heartily suggest this item. My purchase has me incredibly delighted and impressed.



Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller, 8 Zone 2nd Generation, Works with Amazon Alexa Review:


Many home automation solutions have a "green" undertone that emphasizes cost savings through installing extra controls to make sure that use only occurs when necessary. Prior to Z-Wave and Wi-Fi, lawn sprinklers were the first generation of home controls, watering lawns on a timer that would follow a 7x24 schedule. Rachio elevates this level of water management to the status of entry-level control, adding so many levels that it almost feels like you have your own groundskeeper keeping an eye on the weather, assessing the type of soil, runoff, and plants/grass. Just the option to forego watering when there will be a storm or a frost is invaluable, even if we could overlook the web and phone interface. I suppose not... Certainly, the amount you save can be valued.My second Rachio Iro is this one. For my previous home, I got the first-generation Rachio 8-zone, and it worked great. The blink technique of pairing the first generation to your Wi-Fi SSID was the only thing I didn't enjoy and, to be perfectly honest, found annoying. In fact, my Samsung S5 and Rachio 1st generation both flew across the room after numerous attempts of blink connection. I ultimately went into hiding, donned a Harry Potter invisibility cloak, and paired it up. Before bringing back the awful memories for your benefit, the ensuing amazing watering fully distracted me from the blink pain.The Hunter HRC 9-zone controller that came with my new home was functional, but how could I live with a Hunter fixed schedule controller after using an internet-based "cloud" irrigation system? Before Ohio needed irrigation, the Rachio Iro 2nd Gen 16 zone came. at first sight... It is substantially larger than a first-generation model and has a shape like the mark the Hunter made on the wall. No need for repainting... great. This new controller lacks an install plate in favor of a cover. I was pleased to find that Rachio invested in wireless setup with RF and did away with the blink sensor.I took a picture of my current Hunter HRC cables using my cell phone, making sure the colors and their termination were clearly visible. I removed the screws holding the wire terminals, then I threw the Hunter into the garbage. I couldn't stomach the idea of someone purchasing it used and passing up the chance to use a cloud irrigation controller to save water. Four screws were used to quickly fix the Iro in place. Two would have been sufficient, I'm sure, but there were more screws and holes, and my Ryobi drill had seldom been used. It was swiftly packed away because I wouldn't need it again for this straightforward installation.I examined every zone wire lead and cut out a handful of them to expose less conductor. I pressed the main valve and two commons into the C and MC in the appropriate places using my cell. I pressed in the 9 zones, simply, for 5 minutes, using the colors from my cell image. I used the cell application to register the controller after plugging in the Iro to the wall and the controller. I accessed the settings on the Rachio app, advanced, and checked the main valve because I have a Main Valve in my system. After taking another quick phone shot, I realized that the Hunter cover was back in the trash because I had forgotten to get the zone labels.Since this is not my first experience with Rachio Iro, identifying each zone with its name, irrigation head type, intended use (flowers, grass, bushes, etc.), slope, and soil type was rather easy. I took a photo of the good aqua photograph and updated the zone with it while manually turning on each zone to make sure it triggers. Now that my OCD has taken over, I set the zone's initial setting for the soil moisture hydrometer Dr.Meter® Moisture Sensor Meter, Soil Water Monitor, Hydrometer for Gardening, Farming, Indoor/Outdoor Use (4-in-1 Advanced Version) and use a laser to calculate the zone's area. Tape measure 0.05 to 40m, Area/Volume/Distance/Pythagoras Calculation, Self-Calibration Rangefinder, Laser Distance Meter, Handheld Range Finder Measure (0.16 to 131ft). Once I've satisfied my demand for accuracy, I go inside, locate a comfortable chair, and log into rachio.com to set up my watering schedules.I set up two programs because my front yard receives a lot of sun and my backyard is a forest preserve. Having them on different programs makes it easy to turn off the backyard program when I occasionally only want to water the front garden. Depending on your street address, astrological sign, and great grandmother's maiden name, my municipal water system only permits watering on three days of the week (the one you liked). I must use the "fixed days" tool to avoid paying the aqua police's fines. Limiting watering to three days a week still gives the Iro the option to skip days and alter the duration of watering based on weather data and seasonal impacts, even though the flexible daily or flexible monthly schedule may be the most effective for water savings and ensuring that irrigation occurs only when necessary.I failed to mention that the hunter rain sensor was repeatedly activating and deactivating while I was reconnecting it. So I turned it off. I'll leave it disabled until I can get a ladder up there to clean it because it's 12 years old and probably dirty. However, if I'm utilizing a neighboring weather station that is less than a mile away, I'm not sure if I actually need my own rain sensor. How can it be more accurate than a nearby weather station that is accessible via the internet if the old sensor is just being removed?The purchase of this controller is easily justified by the revelation of how many gallons are actually utilized when you are watering and the satisfaction of how much money you are saving when the Iro skips. The cycle approach to watering and the recently introduced manual controls on the Rachio Iro are other elements that seem to make perfect sense. When watering, your Iro will divide a 15-minute session into smaller ones. For example, instead of watering a zone for 15 minutes, it will water it for 5 minutes, move on to the next zone, finish all zones, then start another cycle that will water the zone for another 5 minutes, going through all zones, and finally finishing with a third cycle. This reduces oversaturation and runoff, enables the water you are spraying to soak in, and requires less water overall to get the same effect. awesome!Now, you may set up a visitor to control your system manually and extra admin users to add or modify your programming using the Rachio app. These alternatives will meet your specific needs if you are the owner and have someone who is competent of maintaining your property using Rachio. However, if you only want the person who is mending the last spray head that you damaged with the lawn edger to be able to switch on and off a zone, there are manual controls on the panel itself. This is an improvement over the first generation.Integration? Well, if you're the kind who wishes to increase the automation and controls in your irrigation system. It's likely that you'll think about adding more automation to your home. Your Iro will currently work with Nest Protect 2.0 sensors. In order to help prevent fires from spreading, nest will instruct your Iro to continuously cycle through all of your zones if you have a fire. This will help establish a moisture barrier. If you've just escaped a home fire, I'm confident that some water raining down on you might also be able to quickly cool you down or put out your clothing when you halt, drop, and roll. Although we hope to never use this kind of integration, it would be amazing if it did. I utilize the Vera Plus home controller from MiCasaVerdi instead of my lack of a Nest. Although the Rachio API has been made public and is accessible, there isn't yet a Vera MiOS app. There should hopefully be future integration there.One of the best home automations in the cloud is this one. I gave advice to friends who installed and started conserving water. I strongly advise you to buy one because my parents have one set up. If the price is too high for you, seek for a warehouse sale, secondhand items, etc. These are fantastic, and your money will be returned.



Rain Bird CP100 In-Line Automatic Sprinkler Valve, 1" Threaded Female x Female Review:


PROS: * Standard valves can be utilized as replacement or new installations.* Cons: noneI already have a RainBird system with eight zones. The valves have been failing because it's a little older. On these, expect a lifespan of 10–15 years. Some failed for me because the rubber diaphragm became brittle or tore. Some of them I had had a bad solenoid.Simply purchasing the entire valve and using it to swap out the top half of the existing valve is simpler and more cost-effective.Repair is not very difficult. Cut the water off. On both old and new, remove the 6 screws. Bring the solenoid, top cap, spring, and diaphragm to the valve body that is leaking or shorted. To join the wires, use watertight splices or grease caps. While polarity is unimportant, pay attention to how well shielded the wire connections are. Online, there are a ton of videos with further information. If you use hand tools, it takes around 15 minutes; if you have a powered screwdriver, it takes about half that time. Not the jar-cap type, but the 6-screw type.Additionally, be aware that the interior of the 3/4" and 1" valves is identical. Either will work if you're repairing. The pipe attachment size is the sole distinction.



Rain Bird SST1200OUT Simple-to-Set Indoor Sprinkler Controller Outdoor Irrigation Timer 12-Station Review:


Lightning struck the air conditioner, zapping my Toro Greenskeeper. It was necessary to replenish the freshly seeded lawn overnight. Installing the SST900IN is quite simple. Label all cables before removing the previous unit if you're replacing a timer. It took 2 minutes to get to the testing zones after attaching the new timer. I simply need to put the cover on and install a new rain sensor. All of the zones were programmed in under 3 minutes. I really like this. Every zone arrived prepared to connect. There are no more zone modules available for purchase. PS: Has surge protection built in!



Orbit 57894 4-Station Outdoor Swing Panel Sprinkler System Timer Review:


What this clock accomplishes at such a low price is incredible. I replaced an old clock that cost close to $1000 with the 12-station unit that I purchased, and for only about $70, it effectively does the same functions.This clock has one oddity that other reviewers have pointed out as an issue but that they don't seem to have completely understood. These other reviewers claim that these devices do not maintain accurate time, losing minutes after just a few days. In fact, one reviewer noted that the replacement clock was exactly as bad at keeping time after returning the original clock for this reason. This is what I initially believed as well, however I later changed my mind after doing some research and testing my unit.In actuality, the clock, at least my unit, maintains good time. However, the clock resets to the current time with the seconds rounded to zero when you turn the programming wheel through the "Set Time" option, which you may easily do to reach any of the other setting positions. As a result, each time you turn the programming wheel counterclockwise to adjust another setting in the clock (from the Auto position, where it probably spends the majority of the time, through the Set Time position), you will be essentially reset the clock back 0 to 59 seconds. This might quickly give the impression that the unit is losing time, especially if you constantly program and reprogramme a fresh unit. To avoid this issue, simply rotate the programming wheel in the opposite direction of the Set Time position, assuming clockwise from the Auto position to the desired setting and in the opposite direction to return to Auto when you are finished.Although there is a flaw in the logic of the system, I wouldn't disagree that the clock shouldn't be adjusted by simply moving the cursor over the Set Time point without pressing Enter. However, if you are aware of this particularity, it is simple to avoid the impression of bad timekeeping.



Orbit 57946 B-hyve Smart Indoor/Outdoor 6-Station WiFi Sprinkler System Controller, Compatible with Alexa Review:


I wanted to replace my outdated Rain Bird Analog Rotary Controller with a contemporary WiFi Controller so I wouldn't have to go down to the basement to turn on and off the rain delay. I was keeping an eye on a similar product that was competing, but I wasn't enthusiastic about the $200 price tag. So when this Orbit Controller with the same capabilities at half the cost hit the market, I was immediately interested.I waited a few months for some evaluations to start trickling in, and once I was at ease, I went ahead. It is a single piece installation in a weatherproof box that may be mounted indoors or out. I chose the six zone controller since I now only have three zones and intend to add a fourth for a focal point garden in front of my house. Since I had a power outlet nearby, it was ultimately decided to keep it inside where the old one was. There is no problem if you need more length because the power cord is around 6 feet long. It only took five minutes to install. The former wires, which were a green common wire and red, white, and blue wires for zones 1, 2, and 3, should be photographed. I used a small flathead screwdriver to cut the previous controller's wires, unplugged it from the wall, took it out, cleaned it up, and stored it away as a "backup" because it was still functional. The Orbit controller was mounted on the wall after I took out the old plastic anchors and screws and replaced them. I connected the wires to the Common, 1, 2, and 3 terminals after passing the wires through the grommet on the case's bottom. It couldn't have been simpler.Because the software was so simple, I didn't bother to program anything at the controller. Since I don't want to employ the "Smart Watering" option, I set up a log-in with my email account, connected it to my WiFi, and then established a manual schedule. I was astonished by how quick and simple everything was. It literally took minutes to complete the transaction.It's wonderful that Alexa is compatible. When I ask "Alexa, ask b-Hyve to water the yard" and my sprinklers turn on, there is undoubtedly a "Wow Factor" and confusion from anyone nearby. Nice touch, but the software is also really simple to use. Works over a cellular connection as well, allowing you to turn on your sprinklers even when you're not home.The weather forecast integration is this controller's best feature, though. It automatically plans rain delays with absolutely NO user input. Do you wish to bypass the rain delay? When you launch the app, you only need to click one button. I have it set to run every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 3AM (do not water in the evening as this will cause root rot, and do not water in the morning as this will cause water to evaporate!). My sprinklers have only run TWICE in the three weeks I've owned this controller because of the weather integration. It does its job after examining your rainfall totals and the weather forecast. With the current rate, only the water savings will be enough to pay for it in one spring or summer. I've never been happier. When a Rain Delay is automatically set, a Watering program has finished, and a few more things can be specified as Notifications in the app. adore it The app has a calendar so you can check back and see which days you watered your plants. If you have numerous zones, you can photograph each one so you won't forget which number corresponds to which zone. Additionally, the app allows you to launch any zone at any moment, which is perfect for fixing or modifying sprinkler heads or scaring away birds from your lawn. Run zone 2 for one minute without any issues. Highly suggested.



Orbit B-hyve 57915 Smart 4-Station WiFi Sprinkler System Controller, 4-Zone, Gray Review:


This controller and a Rainbird model were the two WiFi-connected controllers that I ultimately purchased. I also included a rain sensor, which was supported by both controllers. I studied evaluations of both controllers, and some claimed that the B-hyve model was significantly superior and that the Rainbird was overly simplistic. Ultimately, I'm going to go with the Rainbird, but first, my opinions on this Orbit device;Pros: If you enjoy delving deep into the world of irrigation, this is for you. You can choose the type of soil, plants, sprinklers, soil wetness, slope information for each zone, and zone images. The controller will water and hold dependent on the local weather if you let it run completely automatically (you enter your location and can even select local weather stations). It doesn't require batteries as a backup, and my WiFi seems to be quite stable (2.4Ghz only is supported). By purchasing measurement cups to track the water that is really sprayed on your zones and entering the data into the app, you may calibrate the watering process even more. Each zone has good manual control and keeps track of watering occurrences. When installed, it has a very sleek, contemporary appearance and costs a lot less than the RainBird.Cons: I thought the construction was quite light duty, with a smaller terminal block and tiny screw clamps. This wasn't a deal breaker, but it was just a little sensitive. Nearly little local control, which is also not a deal-breaker. It appears that an external rain sensor is supported, but there is no indication of its condition; it rained, but I saw no indication from the sensor (the RainBird unit clearly shows sensor status). Zone photos are simple to take but appear quite small on the app (compared to the RainBird). Both the RainBird and this Orbit units enable Alexa, and both of them currently have a significant problem. The ability to designate the zones is essential for making controllers simple to use. Nobody wants to memorize eight zones when "Front Door Planter," "Rear Hillside," etc. are much easier to notice. The applications and visuals make this very clear, but Alexa only responds to zone numbers, which is a huge flaw. Come on guys, if they can name lights for Alexa, they can name Zones! It's just my opinion, but I didn't like the name "B-hyve" for this device, its app icon doesn't immediately indicate that it's an irrigation system, and asking Alexa to "tell B-hyve to water Zone 1 for 5 minutes" also doesn't seem to work for me.Overall, I really wanted to appreciate this device, but in the end, neither I nor the female residents of my home found it to be very intuitive, so I switched back to the RainBird.



Rain-Bird Lnk Link WiFi Module Mobile Wireless Irrigation Controller Upgrade for Indoor Outdoor ESP-TM2 and ESP-Me Series Controller Sprinkler Systems Review:


Your rain bird and rain sensor will benefit greatly from this addition. It makes it simple to set up and program the rain bird. Additionally, in my area in Florida, the season adjustment option is really effective.Issues: Because my router is inside and my unit is outdoors, it occasionally disconnects when it can't get a signal. Additionally, initially, it was difficult to locate the module unit's signal for WiFi syncing. I simply tried again, and after three attempts, it discovered it and I was able to connect. The software has similar details to others, yet it still does its purpose.Tips Install a rain sensor if you want to fully benefit from smart watering; otherwise, you won't be able to. Look up water-saving recommendations for your region as well as the maximum recommended watering intervals. Make sure the settings on your rain sensor are right. To ensure that the signal to your WiFi is strong, test it with your smartphone. In order for some bands to function, they presumably need to be closer to the unit.Now adding this connection WiFi unit makes sense if you already have a rainbird esp model and the proper rain sensor. But if you're shopping for a new unit, compare prices by looking at the competitors. For my area, which is Florida, the weather information in the app is reliable.



Orbit 57860 Battery Operated Sprinkler Timer with Valve Review:


On my property, I have four of these valves plus controllers installed, and I intend to add another valve to one of them. They have been operating without a hitch for a while now. They address a significant issue because it would be extremely difficult and expensive to extend wires to these locations. The weak construction of the support bracket that raises it up on top of the valve is the only minor element I would modify. The fact that the controller unit can be removed from the enclosure and repaired or adjusted is something I really like about these well-sealed devices. In sunny areas, I've installed a wooden box (from IKEA) over the valve unit. The box's shape enables me to flip it over onto the valve and pipes and remove the box's top (which would normally be the bottom). This shields the pipes and the unit from the sun, which would otherwise cause them to deteriorate. When that happens, I won't be using the bracket and will instead bury the controller housing deeper into the wooden box.



MANATEE Co2 Regulator Hydroponics Emitter System with Solenoid Valve Accurate and Easy to Adjust Flow Meter Brass - Shorten up and Double Your Time for Harvesting Review:


If you plan to add carbon dioxide to your grow, you must use a regulator (CO2). You cannot precisely control how much CO2 is released into the room without a regulator. For flow control (on/off), this particular regulator employs an electronic solenoid. When this regulator is connected to a timer, the timer may control the solenoid and launch bursts of CO2 into the space as needed. This regulator's fitting is made to accommodate any normal 20 lb. gas tank container as well as full-size industrial gas tanks. By combining the value of the gas tank with the regulator's valve, you may control the gas to a greater extent.PROS: Easy to put up; plastic washers are included; Solenoid completely shuts off flow; Easy to read pressure meter; When placed correctly (with a plastic washer), the regulator valve allows for precise control and no leaks.Excellent gas flow float indicator Plusrobust design, substantial brass fittingCONS: -There is almost no documentation (manufacturer assumes you know what is what)-Solenoid can become HOT if powered on for more than 30 minutes.


Can I install a sprinkler system myself?

You can absolutely install a sprinkler system yourself! There are many kits available online and at your local home improvement store that make it easy to do it yourself. The most important thing is to make sure you have a good plan and layout for your sprinkler system before you start. Once you have that, the rest is just following the instructions that come with the kit. It's a great way to save money and have a great looking lawn!

Can I use any controller for sprinkler system?

Yes, but it depends on the type of sprinkler system you have. If you have a standard home sprinkler system, then you can use any controller that is compatible with that system. However, if you have a more complex system, such as an irrigation system for a large lawn, then you will need to use a controller that is specifically designed for that system.

How do I choose an irrigation controller?

You should choose an irrigation controller based on the size of your lawn, the type of plants you have, and your water pressure. If you have a small lawn, you may not need a large, expensive controller. If you have a lot of plants, you may need a controller with more features. If you have low water pressure, you may need a controller that can compensate for that.

How do I know if my sprinkler controller is bad?

If your sprinkler controller is not working properly, it may be due to a bad controller. There are a few things you can do to troubleshoot a bad controller. First, check the power source to make sure the controller is receiving power. Next, check the controller's settings to make sure they are correct. Finally, check the controller's wiring to make sure it is not damaged. If you cannot find the problem, you may need to replace the controller.

How long do sprinkler controllers last?

Sprinkler controllers are built to last, but how long they last depends on a few factors. The average lifespan of a sprinkler controller is about 10 years. However, controllers that are used more often or in more extreme climates may not last as long. It is important to keep your controller clean and free of debris to help extend its lifespan.

How long should sprinklers run in each zone?

The amount of time your sprinklers should run in each zone depends on a few factors, such as the type of sprinkler heads, the amount of water they output, and the size of the area being watered. A general rule of thumb is to run your sprinklers for about 30 minutes per zone.