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5 ways to maximize smart controller efficiency
19 Nov, 2009 LDB SolutionsSmart controllers, also known as weather-based controllers, are one of the many water saving technologies available to help make landscape water usage more efficient. These devices are like irrigation clocks that adjust the amount of water applied to a landscape in response to environmental changes. Using sensors and/or weather information, these controllers adjust your clients' irrigation system automatically in response to rain, wind or temperature changes. Smart controllers can help reduce landscape water usage and in some cases can offer dramatic savings. They can also help you maintain a more healthy landscape.
Smart controllers are becoming very popular in states that are experiencing severe water shortages. However, if used incorrectly this device may not give the desired water-saving results. The California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) offers some recommendations to help you maximize the efficiency of smart controllers to help keep your clients' landscapes beautiful.
1. Program it correctly. In order to maximize and maintain water efficiency, the smart controller needs to be programmed correctly. These mini computers need in-depth information about soil, plants, exposure and type of irrigation because they are customized for your clients' property. Like any computer, if it receives inaccurate information, it will not achieve the desired results, possibly resulting in over- or under-irrigated areas and damaged plants or hardscapes.
2. Monitor the site. Site conditions must be monitored, especially the first few weeks after installing the controller, to fine tune and adjust its settings. Look for runoff, poor plant heath, color changes and/or any other signs that settings might need to be modified. Several adjustments may be needed.
3. Water mandates and restrictions. If you are limited to day-of-the-week watering restrictions, the smart controller may not be allowed to function correctly. CLCA recommends to either use the smart controller or follow the allocated watering days, not both. If your client is only allowed to water one or two days a week, it defeats the purpose of watering based on sensors and weather information.
Smart controllers and good water management are often more effective at reducing landscape water usage than assigned watering days because most people soak their lawns during their allocated time, actually using more water than the site needs. Some cities and water districts are now allowing businesses and residences with smart controllers to be exempt from limited-day watering restrictions. Be sure to check with your local water district regarding restriction exceptions.
4. Maintenance the irrigation system. It is important to regularly inspect your clients' irrigation systems and repair leaks and/or other problems. Because these controllers consistently adjust irrigation, if there is a leak or other problem with the irrigation system, even if programmed correctly, your clients' landscapes may not receive the water it needs.
5. Installing new landscapes. If a new landscape is being installed, group plants into similar areas based on water needs. These areas, called hydrozones, will help your clients' plants receive the proper amount of water to meet their needs and help maximize the efficiency of the controller. When selecting an irrigation system for a new landscape, take time to learn about the most efficient irrigation devices and about the water requirements of the plants being installed. Also consider including drought-tolerant plants in your landscape design. A well-planned landscape incorporating advanced irrigation technology, drought resistant plants and a smart controller will see the most water savings.
For additional water saving information, please visit CLCA.
This article was contributed by Barbara Landrith, CLCA outreach specialist.
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