Smart controllers help you monitor your irrigation from anywhere and can skip watering automatically when rain is in the forecast.
After testing and recognizing their potential for water conservation, San Antonio Water System and approved vendors are offering a savings discount to make the devices more affordable for customers.
From June 16-23, SAWS customers can save 30% on a smart irrigation controller. Eligible models include: Rachio 3 (8-Zone and 16 Zone.) Save up to $62 with controllers starting at $149.99.
If your controller loses track of the day and time after every power outage — risking watering violations if the sprinkler comes on at the wrong time — smart controllers can help you monitor your irrigation from anywhere and skip watering automatically when rain is in the forecast.
Understanding the nuances of these technologies can save you frustration, water and even money. But remember:
- Unlike smart phones or TVs, poorly programmed irrigation controllers can easily cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars. It’s important to understand how to program them and how the smart features will operate under current Stage 3 watering rules. (Note: SAWS does not offer technical support for smart controllers.)
- Avoid using “automated” or “flexible” watering schedules during drought restrictions and summer. While automated watering has potential water savings (especially in winter), it can also violate current watering rules, resulting in a citation for watering outside your day and time.
Whether you have a traditional controller or a smart one, we always recommend using a fixed watering schedule — not a “flexible” automatic one. This allows you to specify the watering day (based on the last digit of your address) and start time, as well as specific run times for each zone to comply with Stage 3 watering rules (5-10 a.m. and 9 p.m. to midnight).
With a fixed schedule, you can still take advantage of smart features like rain skip, wind skip and freeze skip. And by controlling your sprinkler system from the palm of your hand via your smart phone, you’ll be more aware of what the irrigation system is doing and when.
So, embrace smart technology, but remember that the smartest sprinkler controller is you!
