- Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller Reviews
- Rachio Sprinkler Controller Setup
- Lawn Sprinkler Ace
- Lawn Sprinkler Installation
- Lawn Sprinkler Home Depot
- 18 hours ago Most compatible WiFi irrigation controller: Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller Super High Tech In terms of compatibility with other apps and services, it’s hard to beat the Rachio 3.
- Jan 26, 2021 CR’s take: The Rachio 3 8ZULW-C is a solid sprinkler controller that's easy to connect to WiFi and is highly responsive to local forecasts, receiving a Very Good rating for that capability.
With a smart WiFi controller, not only can you control your system with your smartphone, some controllers even have the ability to save you a substantial amount of water and detect leaks. The following are comparisons of the three top Smart Controllers for Irrigation Systems on the market: Hunter’s Hydrawise Controller, Rainbird, and Rachio. With our Editor’s Choice, the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller, you can even choose from either the 2.4 or 5 GHz Wi-Fi connection. The 2.4 allows for greater range while transferring smaller batches of data, whereas the 5 has a shorter range but allows for a higher volume of data to be transferred.
Lawn maintenance might be one of the most monotonous chores on the to-do list: cut the grass, water it, repeat the process ad infinitum. But listen, it doesn’t have to be boring or time-consuming anymore. Technology has come a long way since the good old water hose was invented and now your once-thirsty lawn can practically water itself with a smart sprinkler controller.
Purchasing the best smart sprinkler controller is a luxury, to be sure and it’s not as if it’s impossible to properly irrigate your grass without one. But it will optimize the process, adjusting automatically to rainfall and drastically decreasing the amount of time you spend worrying about—and watering—your lawn. So, if an irrigation controller is a luxury you can afford, keep reading for more information on the tool that could very well transform (and shrink!) your to-do list.
- Most convenient WiFi sprinkler controller: Eve Aqua
- Best small sprinkler controller: Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller
- Best sprinkler controller for a large lawn: Spruce Irrigation 16-zone WiFi Sprinkler Controller
- Best weatherproof sprinkler controller: Orbit B-hyve XR Smart Sprinkler Controller
- Most compatible WiFi irrigation controller: Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller
- Best smart sprinkler controller under $90: AISIRER Smart Sprinkler Controller
Lawn care made easy
The traditional American lawn often represents more than just grass. It’s a symbol of success in pursuit of the American Dream, a way to “keep up with the Joneses,” and a demonstration of the fact that you, too, have taste, civility, and ample free time.
Of course, there’s one huge problem with this timeless trend: Not all ecosystems are predisposed to support the growth of green grass, and not all homeowners have the time or money to artificially prop up lawns that would otherwise die. Enter the smart sprinkler controller: one very handy invention that’s making all that upkeep a whole lot easier.
If you’ve attempted to water and irrigate your yard by hand, you know that lawn irrigation is something of an art form. It feels impossible to discern whether the grass is over- or under-watered, and planning your day around a watering schedule is usually inconvenient. However, sprinkler systems can change all of that, and with something as simple as an irrigation controller, you’ll be on your way to lawn care bliss in no time at all.
Convenience is key
The most important perk of purchasing a smart sprinkler controller is probably convenience. Without a lawn irrigation system, you’re tied to a schedule, doing everything manually, and just plain tired. But with an irrigation system, you’re a free bird. Imagine setting up a schedule with the tap of a button on your iPhone, and just as easily pausing the irrigation if unexpected rain comes your way. Life truly can be that easy—if you purchase the right smart sprinkler system.
Most convenient WiFi sprinkler controller: Eve Aqua
User Friendly
Activating the Eve Aqua is as simple as downloading an app to your iPhone, where you can control every aspect of your irrigation system.
EVE
The Eve app makes the Eve Aqua a no-brainer in terms of convenience. It’s tough to beat the level of ease that comes with being able to control everything from your phone. Plus, this system doesn’t require you to register and won’t track you or your data, meaning your privacy stays intact.
Small lawns need irrigation, too
If you think smart sprinkler controllers are only for people with massive lawns, think again. Admittedly, it does take longer to water a large lawn by hand, but if we’re talking about the planning aspect of setting up an irrigation system, small and large yards are on pretty even footing (after all, just because my lawn is half the size of yours, doesn’t mean it will take me any less time to sync the Bluetooth, or plan out my watering times). With that in mind, there are some smart sprinklers that are slightly more appropriate for smaller lawns—specifically, we’re talking about zone capacity. Because smaller lawns need less coverage, you can go ahead with fewer zones on your irrigation system, which will really help you out if you’re looking to save some money.
Best small sprinkler controller: Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller
Fully Automatic
This six-zone smart sprinkler will water your small lawn as often as you tell it to, but it’s also savvy enough to pause the watering schedule when the weather takes a turn.
Netro
The Netro is all about an eco-friendly approach to lawn maintenance. Using weather forecasting technology, it helps adjust your watering schedule in order to optimize your water usage. It’s also fully automatic, for maximum convenience.
For larger lawns, look for more zones
In terms of manual labor, the larger a lawn is, the more work it requires. But put that assumption aside when it comes to smart sprinkler controllers because, with this advanced technology, the sky’s pretty much the limit when it comes to how much lawn can be cultivated. As long as your new irrigation system has the capacity (or a number of zones) to provide your lawn with adequate coverage, you should be good to go.
Best sprinkler controller for a large lawn: Spruce Irrigation 16-zone WiFi Sprinkler Controller
Smart Design
It doesn’t get much smarter than the Spruce Sprinkler Controller. Using real-time moisture checking technology, this system tests soil moisture every 60 seconds for optimal performance. Plaid Systems
BUY NOWFully automated, and utilizing hyper-local climate adjusters thanks to an advanced weather algorithm, this is the water irrigation system your large lawn needs. Simply establish your new system with the Spruce Setup Wizard, then sit back, relax, and let this 16-zone controller run the show.
What if you want something that’s waterproof?
One very important detail about lawn irrigation systems is that while the actual sprinkler heads are, obviously, waterproof, the control panel often is not. That means you have to protect it from the elements, most easily by installing it inside. But what if you want a system that’s housed totally outdoors? That, my friends, is where a weatherproof smart sprinkler controller comes in.
Best weatherproof sprinkler controller: Orbit B-hyve XR Smart Sprinkler Controller
Almost Indestructible
This timer is 100-percent weather-resistant, meaning you don’t have to spend any extra money on some enclosure.
Orbit
Like most other smart sprinklers, the Orbit B-hyve is smart enough to adjust to weather patterns, plan accordingly, and thus, save you money on your water bill. But unlike many others, it also comes with a waterproof case, so you can mount your control panel outside without needing a protective box. Set up shop wherever you like, then control the entire system from your smartphone.
Here’s why compatibility matters
When you’re purchasing a new piece of tech for your home, it’s important to consider how compatible it stands to be with the setup you already have in place. If you’re a Google Home person, or do lots of your chores via Amazon Alexa, why not add one more—lawn care—to the list? Smart sprinkler controllers—and smart tools of any kind, for that matter—exist to make your life more seamless, not less. So, look out for lawn irrigation systems that might work with what you’ve already got going. With so many choices, there’s no reason you can’t find a perfect (or near-perfect) match.
Most compatible WiFi irrigation controller: Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller
Super High Tech
Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller Reviews
In terms of compatibility with other apps and services, it’s hard to beat the Rachio 3.
Rachio
The Rachio 3 might sound a little intimidating, but don’t be fooled: It’s just as easy to use as any other system, and a high compatibility score means it will be that much more likely to work with whatever setup you already have in place. It works with practically every piece of tech you might want to utilize: the Amazon Alexa, the Google Assistant, Nest, SmartThings, IFTTT, rain and soil sensors, and more. Plus, hyperlocal weather intelligence guarantees super specific (and effective!) treatment for your lawn.
Watering your lawn doesn’t have to be super costly
At the end of the day, smart sprinkler controllers are a luxury, not a necessity. The more gadgets a technological tool has, the more expensive it tends to be. And with a lawn tool such as a smart sprinkler controller, the basic function is the same, regardless of brand—meaning that the price isn’t likely to fluctuate too wildly. That said, there are some cost-saving measures you can take, like looking for a system with less zone coverage, slower WiFi speed, or without weather prediction technology.
Best smart sprinkler controller under $90: AISIRER Smart Sprinkler Controller
Powerful Function
Set up an automatic watering schedule via an app, or stick to manual watering if you prefer.
AISIRER
With eight zones of coverage, WiFi capabilities, and an easy installation process, this lawn irrigation system is on par with others that cost more. While $90 certainly isn’t cheap, it’s a step down in price from the rest of the products on this list. Ultimately, a smart sprinkler controller will never come close to the price of simply watering your lawn by hand— even if it does save you money in the long run with water-saving technologies.
Best smart sprinkler controller FAQ: people also ask
How do smart sprinkler controllers work?
Smart sprinkler controllers operate via a WiFi system that allows users to control when the sprinkler system turns on and off. Simply place sprinkler heads throughout the yard to ensure adequate coverage, set up the control panel, and voilà!
What to look for in a smart sprinkler controller?
Though all smart sprinkler controllers operate via a WiFi or Bluetooth setup, there are small variations in brands—for instance, how many sprinkler heads a system can support, or whether or not the control panel is weatherproof. Paying attention to these details will help ensure that you get even coverage and help to determine where to install your control panel for optimal use.
How long do sprinkler controllers last?
Like any other piece of technology, no smart sprinkler controller will last forever. It will, however, last at least five years if you take care of it properly and protect the wiring from corrosion, which is the most vulnerable component.
Related: Beyond lawn care: These are the best splash pads for outdoor fun.
The final word on choosing the best smart sprinkler controller
Smart sprinkler controllers are a key tool in simplifying your lawn maintenance. With a little research under your belt, you’ll soon be equipped to choose the right water irrigation system for your lawn or outdoor space. One less chore, a lot more free time. Now that’s refreshing!
MORE TO READ
How many times have you looked out at your lawn or garden, wilting in the mid-afternoon sun, and thought, “Shoot. I forgot to water the plants again!”?
If it’s more than once, that’s one time too many. Watering your plants is important and if you forget, it could be the nail in your lawn’s coffin. While there are plenty of watering controllers on the market that incorporate a sprinkler timer to make sure your plants get watered at the same time every day, none are quite as advantageous as the newest smart irrigation controllers.
The best smart sprinkler controller will allow you to water your lawn from anywhere; all you need is a smartphone. Watering your lawn and garden no longer has to be a thankless chore requiring endless amounts of equipment like garden hose reels and garden hoses. Wireless sprinkler controllers are here to stay, and it’s time that you considered purchasing one of these high-tech smart watering systems.
Trust us- you’ll be glad you did. Here’s everything you need to know in order to purchase one of the best auto sprinklers.
RUNNER-UP
Orbit 57950 B-hyve Smart
- Dimensions: Motion Sensing
- Warranty: Limited manufacturer’s warranty
RUNNER-UP
RainMachine Touch HD-12
RUNNER-UP
Rain Bird SST600IN Irrigation Timer Indoor 6-Station
- Dimensions: 1.25” x 7” x 6”
- Warranty:No warranty information included
RUNNER-UP
Netro Sprite-6-INT Smart Sprinkler Controller
- Dimensions: 8” x 8” x 1.9”
- Warranty: No warranty information included
RUNNER-UP
Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller
- Dimensions: 9.2” x 1.5” x 5.5”
- Warranty: 2 years
This product is a great choice for anyone looking to keep tabs on their lawn or garden’s irrigation through WiFi. You can download the free B-hyve smartphone app on your device to give you control over your entire yard with the click of a button.
Orbit has been in the business of making sprinkler systems for well over 40 years and offers a superior product in the Orbit 57950. Depending on the model you purchase, this device can support either 12 or 6 zones, meaning it will fit any size lawn or garden. You can use the preset watering recommendations that come with the unit, or you can adjust them through the mobile application. It also allows you to override the system for manual watering systems.
What We Liked:
- WiFi connectivity allows you to integrate your watering with voice through Amazon Alexa
- EPA WaterSense certification helps you save water and save money
- Easy to install with the ability to customize schedules for different zones
What We Didn’t Like:
- Poor technical support services if you run into any troubles
This small device is one of the best if you have a spotty or unreliable Internet connection. It has a responsive touchscreen display and stores data internally with multiple integration methods so that you only need an Internet connection if you are interested in downloading weather forecasts.
This is an EPA WaterSense-certified controller, coming in eight, twelve, and sixteen zone models. Installing the device is simple, and while its smartphone app is relatively primitive, not allowing you to create a custom schedule based on the weather, you can input your own program and decide how long and when you want to water every zone. It also allows you to input local watering restrictions and to set delay times between zones.
This device saves data on your water usage, providing you reports for the last day, week, month, or even year. The unit is not weatherproof, but you can purchase a box cover in order to protect it from the elements.
What We Liked:
- Comes with all installation equipment you’ll need and takes only 15 minutes to install
- Can save up to 80% in annual water bills
- Works when WiFi is down by using historical weather data to influence watering patterns
What We Didn’t Like:
- App is clunky and difficult to use
Available for purchase in four, six, nine, and twelve stations, this smart sprinkler is incredibly easy to program. The most common model is the six-station indoor model, which is designed for installation in the garage, shed, or home. Although it’s not weatherproof, it’s highly effective, allowing you to create zone-by-zone settings for each and every corner of your yard.
This Rain Bird controller comes with a unique Rain Delay feature that can pause watering for up to three days if it’s exceptionally cold or rainy. It offers customization for multiple watering times and allows you to review all settings at a glance. In many cases, you can also use this unit with preexisting or older irrigation systems, too.
What We Liked:
- One-touch wifi water timer feature allows you to adjust sprinkler settings based on time of year
- Rain Delay feature suspends watering for up to 72 hours during periods of wet weather
- Sealed case protects against insects and dirt
What We Didn’t Like:
Rachio Sprinkler Controller Setup
- Only rated for indoor use and cannot be installed outside; No app
This smart sprinkler isn’t just easy to install, it’s also incredibly well-built. It’s available for both six or twelve zones and is EPA WaterSense-certified. This device is unique in that it comes with a solar-powered soil-moisture sensor. This sensor records temperature and determines automatically whether your lawn or garden plants need to be watered.
This WiFi irrigation controller works with both Alexa and Google Assistant. It can show you local weather patterns and the forecast, telling you the chance of precipitation as well as when the device plans to turn the sprinklers on next. Unfortunately, it does not send out push notifications and since there are no on-device controls, everything must be done through your smartphone.
What We Liked:
- Automatic controller adjusts settings based on current weather, forecast, and time of day
- Conserves water by monitoring soil moisture content
- Can be operated with Amazon Alexa voice control
What We Didn’t Like:
- Does not work well with all routers, which can cause periods of downtime
By far, the Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller is the best wireless sprinkler controller you will find. It is convenient and easy to use, allowing you to categorize areas of your yard into different zones. It has weather-sensing technology that adjusts your settings based on the weather and time of day, and it’s also incredibly easy to install.
This smart sprinkler controller has excellent customer support and is EPA WaterSense Certified. It has updated Google Assistant integration as well as compatibility with both Android and Apple devices. It’s available in both eight and sixteen zone configurations, making it ideal for any size yard. Best yet, it comes with an outdoor enclosure so that you can easily install this device outside without having to worry about it being destroyed by the elements.
The Rachio Smart Sprinkler controller allows you to customize your watering schedule based on data you can enter from several areas of your garden, such as information about soil type, plant type, or sun exposure. This device takes all of the guesswork out of watering your garden and even allows you to create favorite pre-set watering schedules.
Still not convinced? This device comes with a two-year warranty, and it’s one of the most extensive warranty programs you’ll find.
What We Liked:
Lawn Sprinkler Ace
- App allows you to pause, skip, or stop watering in certain areas
- Still works even when the WiFi is down
- Only takes 20 minutes to install
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited technical support services
Things to Consider Before Buying A Smart Sprinkler Controller
While you might’ve picked up on some of the most important features to look for just by reading the reviews, there are some additional features you might not know to intuitively look out for. Here are the most important factors to think about.
If you already have a sprinkler system in place, know that there are some smart irrigation controllers that can work with the equipment you already have, like garden hoses. That being said, most do not; you will need to decide whether overhauling your current system is worth it.
Where do you plan on mounting your smart watering system? If you are mounting it outside, you will want to choose a device that comes with– or can be modified to include– a weatherproof casing. Often, you will need to include a waterproof case in order to protect the unit from the elements, as not all will be waterproof or even water-resistant.
The number of valves you have will equate to the number of zones you can serve. Think about the size and layout of your lawn or garden to decide how many zones you need to service. Most units come with eight zones, but you can find smart watering systems with as few as six and as many as sixteen zones, too.
How often do you need to water? While some smart watering controllers can handle finicky schedules, allowing you to customize your watering needs every day, some will be less flexible and only allow you to modify on a weekly basis.
That being said, there are some smart irrigation systems that even take into consideration local water restrictions for your zip code. Some smart watering systems take into account your local weather and climate, too.
These will allow the system to skip watering when it is raining or to push out a little extra irrigation when it’s dry, allowing you to improve your lawn’s drought tolerance.
Lawn Sprinkler Installation
Most every smart watering system will alert you when it has finished with its routine for the day, but some will even alert you if there is a malfunction. This can be a handy feature, but, unless it is breaking down a lot, this shouldn’t really be needed.
Using a smart watering system is not only convenient, but it’s more environmentally friendly. You can save time and energy by watering only when your lawn actually needs it, taking the guesswork out of irrigation altogether. Whether you’re a farmer, landscaper, gardener, or just an average homeowner, a wifi sprinkler controller is a worthwhile investment.
A smart sprinkler controller will save you water and money in the long-run. Most of these units are easy to install, allowing you to change up your watering habits in less than an hour. Invest in one of the best smart sprinkler controllers, and your lawn will never miss another watering again.
Lawn Sprinkler Home Depot
Looking to really upgrade the look and feel of your lawn and garden? Check out our reviews for some of the other must-have items, such as the best weed eaters and outdoor solar lights.