Here's How Smart Irrigation Controller Works

Studies have revealed that more than 9 billion gallons of water are used for landscape irrigation daily. But 50% of the water gets wasted, due to the incompetent system of the traditional irrigation system. With the introduction of a smart irrigation system, this incompetence can be compensated.
 

Smart irrigation systems attune watering schedules and timing according to the landscape need. They also keep track of weather conditions, plant water use, soil type and condition. These factors help to fix the watering schedule further.

There are two types of smart irrigation controllers, one-site soil moisture sensors and weather-based (ET). This blog will discuss them further. 

1. Water based-irrigation system

   They are also known as evapotranspiration (ET). As the name suggests, this system works by a combination of evaporation from the soil surface and transpiration from plants. It regulates the irrigation system based on local weather conditions. 
   
   
   They further make required adjustments in the irrigation system, so that the landscape receives an adequate amount of water. It works based on four main weather parameters - solar radiation, temperature, wind and humidity. 
   
   
   These parameters pave the perfect way for determining the water needs of a landscape. However, they can be further classified into three types:
   
   
• Signal-based controllers
  
  These controllers work by using the meteorological data that is available publicly. Then, the ET value is calculated based on a grass surface on the site. The required information is sent via a wireless connection to the controllers.
• Historic ET controllers
  
  Depending on the water use in different regions, these controllers opt to utilize a pre-programmed water use curve. This curve can further be adjusted with the changing solar radiation and temperature.
• The on-site weather measurement controller
  
  This controller works based on information collected, after on-site weather analysis. This information is further used to control water and ET measurements accordingly.

2. Soil moisture sensors

   They work by measuring the soil moisture content with the help of updated technological types of equipment. They are usually buried at the root of shrubs, trees or turf to determine the moisture level present in the soil. They further transfer this reading to the controller. They are further classified into two types:
   
   
• Suspended cycle irrigation system
  
  The system is set with programs like water schedules, their starting and ending times, with required time controllers. This system will even stop the irrigation cycle when there is enough moisture retained in the soil.
• Water on-demand irrigation
  
  This system doesn't require programming related to the duration of the irrigation. You just need to set the starting time and the days of the week you need to water the plants. Whenever there is less moisture content in the soil. This system initiate irrigation with the help of a user threshold. 

Maintenance tips for your irrigation system

Installing a smart sprinkler is a wise decision. But without proper maintenance, you may not be able to enjoy its benefits. Below mentioned are some steps that would guide you on how to maintain your irrigation system.

1. Spring start-up

   You need to begin with the start-up procedure in the spring. An overall checkup of the whole system will inform you about any issues related to the sprinkler. It will give you a reality check about the functioning of the sprinkler. Check with the sprinkler heads thoroughly, and make sure that no area got blocked by bushes or trees. Also, turn on the water valve slowly, which will further help to reduce the water hammer.

2. Mid-season maintenance

   With the change of season from spring to dry or hot. You would require to make required changes on your sprinkler to receive peak performance. Start with an inspection of sprinkler heads, and check whether they are clogged by debris. Also check on the rotors, whether they are turning on properly or showing any hindrance. Examine the system thoroughly, and check whether it needs any sort of repair. Inspect your lawn to ensure that it is watered adequately to survive the summer heat.

3. Fall winterization

   To experience prolonged life expectancy in the irrigation system, winterization is another important step to be taken. This would ensure the well-functioning of your system during winter. The term winterization can be further described as the release of residual components from the main system as well as solenoid and manifold valves.
   
   
   This release is initiated by using compressed air. The process of winterization makes use of certain types of equipment, to control the amount of compressed air. So that the other components of the system don't get affected by friction or excess pressure. It is advisable to hire a professional contractor for commencing this work.

Wrapping up

Installation of a smart irrigation controller is a clever choice for your lawns. It makes the process of watering plants much easier. You can even connect it with your Google Assistant, and give voice commands to fulfil the work. However, for maintenance purposes. You can contact professionals. They even provide maintenance packages for the whole year. Proper maintenance would maintain the efficiency of your sprinkler system.