SMART CONTROLLERS
DEMYSTIFYING smart controllers
By Luke
Reynolds Brought to you by
Photo: Rachio
Learn how to make internet- connected devices work for both you and your clients.
S
mart irrigation controllers are key to finding new ways to improve efficiency in water use while also improving results for clients. As water restrictions increase across the country, a smart irrigation con-
troller can make the difference between a staggering utili- ties bill and a healthy landscape. But as technology advances, the options can feel com-
plicated for both homeowners and contractors alike. Find- ing the right smart controller to fit the situation can seem like a challenge but these tips from product managers and industry experts can help clear the air.
BE SMART ABOUT CONTROLLERS
Today’s smart controllers are adding advanced connectiv- ity options, according to Sergio Ramos, product market- ing manager, irrigation and lighting software at Te Toro Company, Bloomington, Minnesota. He says the ability to not have to be physically present to adjust irrigation set- tings can really add up in reduced time spent driving to client properties and checking systems. “Te obvious feature is convenience and time savings,”
Ramos says. “Te ability to control and manage irrigation systems using a mobile device or website means that you can get more done or receive critical system information without the need to be physically present at the site or in the office.”
36 Irrigation & Lighting June 2023
But if clients are antsy about the prospect of completely upgrading a system or spending the money on a technol- ogy change they don’t fully understand, it’s important to remember that a smart controller doesn’t have to be a full commitment to get results, Ramos says. “Smart control is not an all-or-nothing proposition,”
he says. If budget or timing is a factor, some manufacturers have standard controllers that can be upgraded with smart capabilities when the need arises. “Tis allows customers the flexibility to add features or wireless control at any time.” Many smart controllers offer the user the ability to sim-
ply not use the connected aspect of the product and use the tactile dial or physical interface, so the flexibility to level up to a smart controller is one that can come with time. While the controller won’t provide the enhanced efficiencies that the client could expect from a connected system without those abilities, it can be helpful to have the option while still providing basic services. Contractors should look for controllers that have the obvious features but also consider some more basic features that are essential for a well-functioning, efficient system, says Joseph Tsai, founder and CEO at Aeon Matrix, Cu- pertino, California. “Controllers are often designed with cost in mind, which may result in smaller sizes with fewer features, such as surge protection,” Tsai says. “To ensure the safety and quality of a controller, it is important to check
irrigationandlighting.org
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