13 Unbelievable Irrigation Control for 2024

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Introducing the future of irrigation control: "13 Unbelievable Irrigation Control for 2023." As we enter into a new era of advanced technology, this groundbreaking system pushes the boundaries of conventional irrigation methods. With a staggering array of features and functionalities, these innovative controls promise to revolutionize the way we manage water resources for agricultural and landscaping purposes. From state-of-the-art sensors that optimize water distribution to intuitive automation systems that adapt to weather conditions, the possibilities are truly extraordinary. Join us as we explore the extraordinary advancements that await in the domain of irrigation control for the year 2023.

Orbit B-hyve Sprinkler Controller

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Overall Score: 8.5/10

The Orbit B-hyve 4-Zone Smart Indoor Sprinkler Controller is a highly functional and easy-to-use device that allows you to control your sprinkler system from anywhere using your smartphone or tablet. With its Wi-Fi capability, you can easily program and monitor your sprinkler system through the B-hyve App on both Android and iOS platforms. The WeatherSense technology also provides smart watering based on site conditions such as slope, soil type, sun/shade, and historical ET. Additionally, this sprinkler controller offers manual override, built-in fault detection and surge protection, and compatibility with master valve and pump relay setups. It is also environmentally friendly with its EPA WaterSense and SWAT certification. The Orbit B-hyve 4-Zone Smart Indoor Sprinkler Controller is a reliable and convenient solution for managing your watering needs.

The Orbit B-hyve 4-Zone Smart Indoor Sprinkler Controller is a reliable and user-friendly device for managing your sprinkler system. With its Wi-Fi capability and easy programming through the B-hyve App, you can easily control and monitor your watering needs from anywhere. The WeatherSense technology ensures efficient watering based on site conditions, and the built-in safety features provide peace of mind. While some users have reported issues with the app and smart watering feature, the overall performance and convenience of this sprinkler controller make it a great choice for any gardener. With its affordable price and versatility, the Orbit B-hyve 4-Zone Smart Indoor Sprinkler Controller is a top contender in the market.

Orbit 57896 Sprinkler Timer/Controller Green

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Overall Score: 9/10

The Orbit 57896 Easy Set Logic 6-Station Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler Timer/Controller is a reliable and easy-to-use solution for controlling your sprinkler and drip systems. It is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, with a locking cabinet and swing panel display for easy access. The timer/controller has three program slots, allowing you to set up to three unique watering schedules. Each program can have multiple start times for cycle and soak windows. It also features a rain delay function to skip watering during rainy or freezing conditions. Compatible with 24 VAC valves from major brands, this green timer/controller is a convenient and efficient choice for your gardening needs.

The Orbit 57896 Easy Set Logic 6-Station Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler Timer/Controller is a reliable and user-friendly product that makes watering your garden a breeze. With multiple program slots and customizable start times, you can easily create a watering schedule that fits your needs. The rain delay feature is a handy addition, allowing you to conserve water during wet weather. The timer/controller is easy to install and program, with large controls that are intuitive to use. However, the friction wire connections may not be as secure as screw-down blocks, and the unit is not compatible with strand wiring. Overall, the Orbit 57896 is a great choice for anyone looking to automate their sprinkler and drip systems.

Smart Sprinkler Controller: Rachio 3

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Overall Score: 9/10

The Rachio 3: 8 Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller is a worry-free watering solution for your yard. This smart controller uses weather intelligence to tailor your watering schedule, skipping unnecessary watering with features like rain skip, wind skip, and freeze skip. With the easy-to-use app, you can control your watering from anywhere, set schedules, and even see your estimated outdoor water usage. The installation is fast and easy, compatible with 99% of existing sprinkler controllers. Say goodbye to overwatering and hello to a beautiful yard and lower water bills!

The Rachio 3: 8 Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller is a game changer for any gardener. Its weather intelligence and easy-to-use app make watering your yard a breeze. The tailored watering schedules and skip features help conserve water and save you money. While it may have some limitations such as lacking flow measurement and limited device support, overall it performs exceptionally well. With its fast and easy installation, you’ll be up and running in no time. Say goodbye to manual controllers and welcome a beautiful, efficiently watered yard with the Rachio 3: 8 Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller.

Orbit B-hyve Smart Sprinkler Controller

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Overall Score: 8.5/10

Introducing the Orbit 57950 B-hyve Smart 12-Zone Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler Controller, the perfect device for smart and efficient watering of your plants. This controller is compatible with Alexa, allowing you to control it with just your voice. With the B-hyve app, you can program your timer from anywhere, whether you're at home or on the go. The WeatherSense technology ensures that your plants receive the right amount of water based on site conditions and live weather feeds. Installation is a breeze with the easy access swing panel and plug-and-go line cord. Plus, the controller is certified to save water and energy, making it eligible for local rebates. With a customer rating of 4.4/5, this smart sprinkler controller is a reliable and convenient choice for any gardener.

The Orbit 57950 B-hyve Smart Sprinkler Controller is a reliable, convenient, and smart choice for gardeners looking to automate their watering system. The B-hyve app allows for easy control from anywhere, and the WeatherSense technology ensures that your plants receive the optimal amount of water. Installation is simple with the swing panel and plug-and-go line cord. The controller is even certified to save water and energy, making it a cost-effective choice. Although the programming setup instructions may be confusing, once the system is set up, it works great. The only downside is the lack of an indicator for the rain sensor. Overall, this smart sprinkler controller is a top choice for any gardener looking to simplify their watering routine.

Hunter Sprinkler Irrigation X-Core Indoor Controller

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Overall Score: 8.5/10

The Hunter Sprinkler Irrigation XC600i X-Core 6-Station Indoor Controller is a small and user-friendly controller that provides essential water management features. This controller ensures beautiful and healthy landscapes by supporting up to 6 stations. It offers 3 flexible programs with 4 start times each, accommodating the needs of most residential and light commercial irrigation systems. The controller is compatible with Hunter weather sensors, which can pause irrigation during rain, freeze, and wind events. It also stores programs in memory, ensuring irrigation resumes normally after a power outage. The gray-colored controller has dimensions of 2.00Lx5.75Wx6.50H, making it compact and easy to fit anywhere in your indoor space.

The Hunter Sprinkler Irrigation XC600i X-Core 6-Station Indoor Controller is a reliable and efficient choice for managing your irrigation system. With its user-friendly interface and flexible programming options, it offers convenience and ease of use. The compatibility with Hunter weather sensors ensures efficient water usage. However, it falls short in providing comprehensive installation instructions and some advanced features found in other brands. Overall, if you are looking for a compact and reliable indoor controller, the Hunter Sprinkler Irrigation XC600i X-Core is a great choice.

Hunter Company Hydrawise Pro-HC 12-Station Indoor Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller

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Overall Score: 8.1/10

The Hunter Company Hydrawise Pro-HC 12-Station Indoor Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller is a top-notch gardening product that offers advanced technology and convenience for managing your irrigation system. With its Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with Hydrawise irrigation management software, you can easily control and program your irrigation programs remotely. The controller features a 2.75-inch full-color touchscreen display for intuitive programming and a built-in milliamp sensor for wire fault detection and alerts. It also includes 2 sensor inputs, 1 P/MV output, and multiple programming options to suit your needs. While some users find the interface overly complicated, the controller offers great functionality and durability. Overall, the Hunter Company Hydrawise Pro-HC 12-Station Indoor Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller is a reliable and efficient choice for any gardener.

The Hunter Company Hydrawise Pro-HC 12-Station Indoor Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller is a reliable and efficient choice for any gardener. It offers a wide range of features, including Wi-Fi connectivity, multiple programming options, and a full-color touchscreen display. The built-in milliamp sensor ensures accurate wire fault detection, providing peace of mind. While some users find the interface overly complicated, the controller’s performance and durability are commendable. It allows for remote control and manual water control across the United States, making irrigation management more convenient. With its compatibility with Hydrawise irrigation management software and excellent customer support, this controller is a must-have for gardeners seeking to optimize their irrigation systems and save water.

Rain Bird Indoor Sprinkler/Irrigation System Timer/Controller

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Overall Score: 9/10

The Rain Bird SST600IN Simple-To-Set Indoor Sprinkler/Irrigation System Timer/Controller is a user-friendly device that allows you to easily program your watering schedules for different areas of your yard. It is designed for indoor installation and offers a one-touch seasonal adjust feature to adapt to changing weather conditions. The timer also includes a rain delay function to suspend watering during wet periods. With superior durability and built-in surge protection, this timer is built to last. It is sealed to protect against moisture, insects, and grime. The timer comes in a Gray/Green color and has a 6-zone capacity. Overall, it is a reliable and easy-to-use product for managing your irrigation system.

The Rain Bird SST600IN is a top choice for a user-friendly and reliable indoor sprinkler/irrigation system timer. With its easy programming, customizable features, and durable construction, it offers convenience and efficiency in managing your watering schedules. The one-touch seasonal adjust and rain delay functions further enhance its adaptability to changing weather conditions. While there may be some minor drawbacks such as display visibility in low light and potential compatibility issues with previous brands, overall, this timer provides excellent value for its price. Whether you are a novice or an experienced gardener, this Rain Bird timer is a smart investment for maintaining a well-managed irrigation system in your yard.

Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station Controller

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Overall Score: 8.3/10

The Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller is a top-notch gardening product that offers convenience, versatility, and advanced features. With its quick installation, simple programming, and WiFi connectivity, it is designed to make managing your irrigation system effortless. The large back-lit LCD display ensures visibility in any lighting condition, while the internet-based weather information adjusts the irrigation schedule to save up to 30% in water. The Rain Bird LNK WiFi Module (sold separately) allows users to access, operate, and monitor their system from anywhere. Additionally, the contractor default feature and delay watering option provide further customization and control. Whether for indoor or outdoor installations, this controller is a reliable and efficient choice for any gardening enthusiast.

The Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller is a reliable and efficient gardening product that offers convenience and advanced features. Its quick installation, simple programming, and WiFi connectivity make managing your irrigation system effortless. With the added benefits of remote access, customization, and water-saving adjustments, this controller is a top choice for any gardening enthusiast. While it may require some additional components and initial troubleshooting, the overall performance and convenience outweigh these minor drawbacks. Upgrade your gardening experience with the Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station Controller and enjoy a more efficient and customized irrigation system.

Orbit 57995 B-hyve XR Smart 16-Zone Sprinkler Controller

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Overall Score: 8/10

The Orbit 57995 B-hyve XR Smart 16-Zone Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler Controller is a top-notch gardening product that offers easy installation and a best-in-class experience. With its free B-hyve app, you can conveniently create watering schedules, set duration times, receive alerts, and control everything right from your smartphone. This smart sprinkler controller automatically adjusts to weather changes, including rain, wind, and freeze delays. It also features B-hyve's exclusive WeatherSense technology, which receives local weather data to deliver the right amount of water to your plants. Additionally, this controller is EPA WaterSense certified, helping you save water and potentially qualify for rebates. Despite a few minor drawbacks, such as the limited functionality of the iOS app and the lack of clear instructions for certain features, the Orbit 57995 B-hyve XR Smart 16-Zone Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler Controller is a reliable and efficient choice for any garden enthusiast.

The Orbit 57995 B-hyve XR Smart 16-Zone Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler Controller is a top-notch gardening product. With its easy installation, convenient smartphone control, and accurate weather adjustments, it offers a best-in-class experience. This controller helps save water, potentially qualifying for rebates, and eliminates the need for multiple watering systems. While the iOS app could use improvement and some features lack clear instructions, overall, the Orbit 57995 B-hyve XR Smart 16-Zone Indoor/Outdoor Sprinkler Controller is a reliable and efficient choice for any garden enthusiast.

Hunter Wand Wi-Fi Module

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Overall Score: 8/10

Upgrade your X2 Outdoor Irrigation Controller with the Hunter Wand Wi-Fi Module. This plug-in device enables Hydrawise online irrigation management capabilities, providing maximum water savings. With controller status updates and faulty wiring alerts, you can prevent costly landscape damage. The module allows for flexible setup options and is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Control4, and HomeSeer. Use your smartphone as a manual remote and easily copy and paste Hydrawise scheduling to any X2 controller. In addition, the module supports various security protocols and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. With its compact size, the module is easy to install and offers convenient control over your sprinkler system.

The Hunter Wand Wi-Fi Module is a valuable addition to any X2 Outdoor Irrigation Controller. It offers remote control functionality, allowing you to easily manage your sprinkler system using your smartphone. The module provides important updates and alerts to prevent landscape damage, and it supports flexible programming options. While it may be a bit pricey, its ease of installation and use make it a worthwhile investment. With the ability to adjust watering schedules based on local weather conditions, you can ensure optimal water usage and maintain a healthy lawn. Despite some occasional connectivity issues, the module’s overall performance is commendable. Enhance your gardening experience with the Hunter Wand Wi-Fi Module.

Underhill Sprinkler Irrigation System

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Overall Score: 9/10

The Underhill Sprinkler Irrigation System is a versatile and cost-effective tool for automating your lawn and garden watering. The ICC2 Decoder Module Converter allows you to convert your irrigation controller to 2Wire operation or a combination of multi-wire and 2Wire, leading to enhanced cost-savings. It is easy to install into the Hunter ICC2 module slot and compatible with up to 48 stations. With no grounding required along the 2Wire path, you can expand your existing multi-wire systems without the need for trenching back to the controller. This irrigation system is made from premium quality materials and is suitable for both professional applications and home use.

Overall, the Underhill Sprinkler Irrigation System is a reliable and efficient solution for automating your watering needs. With its decoder module and easy installation process, it offers a cost-effective way to upgrade your sprinkler system. The compatibility with up to 48 stations and the option to expand without trenching back to the controller make it a convenient choice. The professional quality and reliable materials ensure durability and long-lasting performance. Whether you are a professional landscaper or a home gardener, this irrigation system provides the necessary features to efficiently water your lawn and garden. Say goodbye to manual watering and enjoy the benefits of this efficient and user-friendly system.

Hunter Hydrawise X2 – Smart Outdoor Irrigation Controller

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Overall Score: 8/10

The Hunter Industries Hydrawise X2 14-Station Outdoor Irrigation Controller is a Wi-Fi capable controller that maximizes water savings by converting to Hydrawise smart irrigation control. It features an easy-to-read backlit display for optimal visibility in any light. With 3 flexible programs, 4 start times each, and run times up to 6 hours, it offers customizable irrigation options. The built-in QuickCheck technology provides simple diagnostics of faulty field wiring, making maintenance easier. The Hydrawise X2 also allows for easy suspension of irrigation for up to 99 days during the off-season. With short-circuit protection, the system can detect wiring faults and skip the station without damaging the overall system. The Easy Retrieve memory feature automatically backs up the full irrigation schedule in the event of a power outage. Additionally, the Delay Between Stations feature is useful for slow-closing valves or pump recharge, while the Cycle and Soak feature prevents wasteful runoff in areas with elevation changes or compact soils.

The Hunter Industries Hydrawise X2 14-Station Outdoor Irrigation Controller is a reliable and feature-packed option for smart irrigation control. With its Wi-Fi capability, easy-to-read display, and flexible programming options, it offers convenience and customization. The QuickCheck technology and short-circuit protection make troubleshooting easier, while the Easy Retrieve memory and Delay Between Stations features add additional convenience. While a few customers faced challenges with the Wi-Fi connectivity, overall, the controller has received positive feedback for its performance and durability. It is a quality product backed by excellent customer support. Whether you’re a residential or commercial gardener, the Hunter Industries Hydrawise X2 is a worthwhile investment for efficient and hassle-free irrigation control.

RESTMO Sprinkler Timer

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Overall Score: 8.5/10

The RESTMO Sprinkler Timer is a compact and elegant watering system designed to make your gardening tasks easier. With its mini size and versatile features, it is perfect for any garden or greenhouse. The timer has three modes: auto, manual, and rain delay, allowing you to customize your watering schedule. It is easy to use, with a large LCD screen and intuitive controls. The timer is also waterproof and leakproof, making it ideal for outdoor use. With a single outlet and various specifications, it is compatible with different hose sizes and water pressure levels. Overall, the RESTMO Sprinkler Timer is a reliable and efficient tool for automated watering.

The RESTMO Sprinkler Timer is a reliable and efficient tool for automating your watering system. Its compact design, versatile modes, and user-friendly interface make it a must-have for any gardener. The timer’s flexibility allows you to customize watering schedules for different areas of your lawn or garden, promoting healthy growth while saving water. It is also waterproof and leakproof, ensuring durability even in harsh weather conditions. Although it lacks a manual mode for extra watering during heat waves, its overall performance and customer service make it a top choice for gardeners. With its affordable price and excellent features, the RESTMO Sprinkler Timer is highly recommended for anyone seeking a high-quality and customizable sprinkler timer.

Buyer's Guide: Irrigation Control

Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or a professional landscaper, having an efficient irrigation system is essential for maintaining healthy plants and a vibrant outdoor space. Investing in the right irrigation control system can save you time, money, and conserve water. With a wide range of options available in the market, choosing the best irrigation control can sometimes be overwhelming. Fear not! We're here to guide you through the process. So, let's dive into the world of irrigation control and find the perfect match for your needs:

Factors to Consider

1. System Type
• Check if the irrigation control system is compatible with your existing setup or if you're starting from scratch. Options include traditional sprinklers, drip irrigation, and smart irrigation systems.
2. Watering Schedule
• Determine if you need a basic timer for manual scheduling or a more advanced system with customizable programs to suit different zones or plant types.
3. Installation and Compatibility
• Ensure that the irrigation control system you choose can be easily installed and is compatible with your devices such as smartphones, tablets, or smart home assistants.
4. Connectivity
• Consider whether you prefer a Wi-Fi-enabled system for remote access and control or a wired system that works independently without an internet connection.
5. Zone Control
• Determine if the irrigation control system allows for individual zone control, adjusting the watering duration or frequency for specific areas with different water requirements.
6. Weather Monitoring
• Check if the system incorporates weather sensors or integrates with external weather data to automatically adjust watering cycles based on rainfall, temperature, or humidity.
7. Water Conservation
• Look for features such as automated water shutoff during rain events or soil moisture sensors that prevent unnecessary watering and help conserve water.
8. Expandability
• Consider whether the system allows for future expansion and the addition of more zones or devices as your landscaping needs evolve.

Types of Irrigation Control Systems

• Traditional Sprinkler Timers
• Basic timers that allow you to set a fixed schedule for watering with limited flexibility.
• Drip Irrigation Timers
• Designed for precision watering, these timers deliver water directly to the plant roots, conserving water and reducing evaporation.
• Smart Irrigation Controllers
• Connected to the internet, these controllers provide advanced features such as weather-based scheduling, zone control, and remote access through smartphone apps or voice assistants.
• Weather-Based Controllers
• These controllers utilize weather data to dynamically adjust watering schedules, minimizing water wastage during rainy or cold periods.
• Soil Moisture Sensors
• Paired with a control system, these sensors measure soil moisture levels and trigger watering only when required, preventing overwatering and reducing water usage.