IRRIGATION WI-FI VS. CELLULAR CONNECTIONS


Wireless controllers require an internet connection. In wired urban and suburban areas, Wi-Fi service is readily available. Twiss has noticed that clients using Wi-Fi may need a booster to strengthen the signal enough for the con- troller to find it, especially when the controller is in the basement or outside. Some customers purchase a Wi-Fi signal booster, which can quickly remedy the problem in these cases. “Tat has been the only problem we’ve had,” he says.


“It takes me about 15 seconds to change the face plates on existing systems we’re moving to wireless controllers.” Many of Griffin’s customers rely on cellular con-


nections to power their wireless controllers. Te recent nationwide tower upgrade from 3G to 5G has meant that existing wireless controllers needed new cellular modems to function. Te manufacturer Griffin uses in- cludes this upgrade at no cost, allowing them to make the majority of changes for free to customers, though they did charge a service charge to a handful of clients. “Tech upgrades are something you need to think about with wireless controllers. We’ve got about 98% of our accounts through the switch,” Griffin says. “Tere are some unique neighborhoods that took down their 3G and have not put up a 5G tower in its place, so we are not sure what those homeowners are doing for their in- ternet. But, we are nearly finished upgrading everyone.”


CUSTOMER HESITANCY


Emphasize the values that wireless controllers can bring to customers, such as water savings and fewer service calls.


Change can be challenging for customers, especially when an investment is necessary. Price is one concern contractors always hear from clients. It will be no differ- ent with wireless controllers. As the technology is more widely used, the cost will


decrease. However, emphasizing the values that resonate with the customer, such as water savings which equate to lower utility and conservation and savings in service calls, can counteract the investment. Twiss bolsters this by explaining how a wireless controller saves the client time and money in the long run. “I explain how if they want more or less water on their


site, I can change the programming without coming on- site, which means they don’t have to pay a visit fee,” he says. “I also show them how the alerts can isolate an issue, which allows us to get a tech out there and fix it in less time.” DW Burr services more than 1,000 accounts, and


75% have been upgraded to a wireless controller. Te company does not install any conventional controllers. Twiss believes a wireless controller is appropriate for use on every irrigation system, whether there is one head or a large commercial job with 10,000 heads. “Te younger generations, especially those into tech-


nology and conservation, understand the tool and are excited about it,” he says. “We’ve been able to make ev- ery client, including one with a home on a lake, com- fortable with the technology. I tell them that my phone is always on.”


22 Irrigation & Lighting Fall 2022 SECURITY CONCERNS


News of data breaches and internet privacy issues frequent- ly appear in the headlines. Te hackers aren’t looking for gardening tips or water usage. Tey use the devices as entry points into the entire network with the home or commer- cial property. For some clients who are more understanding of digital


security and dealing with threats of hackers, having a Wi- Fi connection tethered to the irrigation system can feel like a liability. Te Internet of Tings is essential to improving efficiencies and conserving resources but can create vulner- abilities some clients are unwilling to chance. Although manufacturers continue to work on security enhancements and upgrades, recognizing a client’s policy or viewpoint of internet security may make them impractical for some sites. Griffin acknowledges that the thought of learning new


technology can be overwhelming for some contractors. But she emphasizes the significant benefits wireless controllers offer to irrigation companies and clients. First, wireless controllers significantly reduce fuel needs


since alerts come through via the software rather than driv- ing from site to site for a physical inspection. Second, it’s cut client costs by decreasing the number of service calls and lengths of time on-site. For example, the run time can be reviewed and changed


remotely rather than a customer incurring the cost of a tech visiting the property to make the change. Te diagnostics also pinpoint an issue on the site, so when a tech does arrive, they can directly address the problem rather than spend excess time diagnosing the situation. “Using wireless controllers has allowed our company to


be smaller while managing more systems at one time,” she says. “To get the most out of it, you must actively manage it.” Before going into business with her husband, Griffin


worked for a manufacturer. Tey recognized that not every- one has that experience or comfort level in understanding how wireless controllers work. But she says resources are plentiful for getting started. She suggests starting by connecting with the distributor and manufacturer representatives to get the information you need to install and manage wireless controllers. Many offer training on specific products and troubleshooting. Te Irrigation Association’s annual Irrigation Show and Education Week is also a great resource for information on getting the most out of these tools, as well as just reaching out to other colleagues. “Talk to other contractors who are using the technolo-


gy. We mentor others and let them interview us about the technology we use,” Griffin says. “We are willing to show them the features of the controllers. We see it as more wa- ter being saved, even if we’re not managing it.” Consumers are accustomed to technology streamlining


every aspect of life and are particularly concerned about conservation efforts. Wireless controllers offer an option that can make saving water easier while also reducing con- tractor time spent on-site.


Katie Navarra is a freelance writer in Mechanicville, New York, and can be reached at ktnavarra@gmail.com.


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