How Do I Choose An Irrigation Timer?
Irrigation timers are one of the most essential and useful systems for monitoring when and how the lawn is watered. Timers’ varieties can vary from extremely simpler systems to highly advanced computers, which means that there are multiple options to consider. The purpose of this information or guide is to highlight what irrigation timers can be useful and the innovative options to choose from. The preference also focuses on the irrigation timer features and program options.
How to choose the best irrigation system?
The type of irrigation system to be chosen depends on the overall water quality available. It also depends on the type of soil and the slope on which the crop fields rest. It is also dependent on the kind of crops that one is willing to irrigate. In most cases, sprinkler irrigation systems are supposed to be high-pressure with higher flow.
What are irrigation timers?
Irrigation timers have been useful programs for determining the multiple range of variables that allow the proper functioning of automatic irrigation systems. There can be a way to assess the understanding of the zones that tend to receive the amount of water, when, and how. These irrigation timers are also helpful in keeping track of the number of days when your lawn receives water.
Types of irrigation timers
The basic types of irrigation timers include mechanical, hybrid, and electronic timers. Irrigation timers are usually wired on the exterior and interior walls. The user can access different zones that they need to consider for the job. Irrigation systems require better maintenance skills than hose timers.
Mechanical timers: Basic mechanical timers must be set manually, but they are extremely economical. The lawn must be monitored with closer inspection, and necessary adjustments can be made when installing mechanical timers.
Electronic timers: They come with many options and good features. They can be easily controlled from remote locations with the help of smartphones and computers. Real-time adjustments can also be made with the change in weather. A few electronic timers may be used to control regular and drip irrigation systems.
Hybrid timers: They amalgamate the comfort of easy controls and inputs that can be easily read. Hybrid irrigation timers are also known to feature digital readability and easy-to-use sliders, with which individuals can proceed by setting up the duration of water.
Choice of Controllers
Conventional controllers have the ease of multiple vital features that are needed for the diverse watering requirements. With the help of the dials and the buttons, conventional timers are usually placed on a garage wall. All information regarding the watering program can be entered standing there.
Smart controllers have cellular connectivity or can work with the help of Wi-Fi, ensuring that they can work with the help of a mobile device or some computer program. A computer, phone, or tablet can be used to activate your smart controller. Many innovative controller models can also notify when an issue with the broken sprinkler arises or if a problem with a damaged sprinkler valve and head may not be functioning correctly. With Wi-Fi irrigation controllers, also known as smart controllers, the irrigation can be well controlled with the help of Wi-Fi. Regarding the Wi-Fi, the irrigation can be controlled from the area.
Hose-installed irrigation timers
- Hose-installed irrigation timers are comparatively easy to install and offer many attractive price options and features.
- A few of the major benefits and useful features of these timers are:
- Their ability to operate mechanically, electrically, and with battery-operated options
- They are capable to be attached to some outdoor tap
- They are available in multiple or single-hose options.
- There are also plenty of hose timers capable of converting one water input source into different types of water outputs, including drip irrigation systems.
AC powdered irrigation controllers
They have been wired within an area or a fixed location and are often connected to a power supply. Most of the setups are suitable choices for residential locations. They can be controlled remotely, and upgradation to ‘smart controllers’ through the use of sensors is also possible.
Battery-operated irrigation controllers
It is a suitable choice for residential properties where there may be less choice with respect to power supply. It allows irrigation without the requirement of an electrical connection. These systems are easily operated and highly user-friendly. With regular battery changes, they can run longer and perform well with complete efficacy.
Summary
Proper irrigation timers and controllers can help water your lawns and gardens more simply and effectively. With the addition of sensors, it is easy to ensure that the irrigation controllers installed can help you adjust irrigation-watering schedules more effectively. They can also help you buy different variables that include soil, weather, and evaporation.
