If your yard is equipped with an irrigation system, chances are you’re looking for an easier, more convenient way to operate your sprinklers. In 2016 there are several different Smart WiFi Irrigation Controllers that are designed to do just that. With the ability to connect to your home network through any WiFi enabled device, you’ll have an unparalleled advantage to having every sprinkler fully controllable from your fingertips – no matter where you are. Over time, this can save you money on your water bill while giving you customized and streamlined control over your irrigation system.
But which one is the right one for you? Ultimately that’ll be up to you since you’ll have the deciding factor when it comes down to it. However, we’re here to recommend a few options that are your best bet as far as ease of use, reliability, and overall quality go.
Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller (2nd Generation)
- Designed specifically to decrease your water bill while offering a convenient and easy way to operate your sprinklers, the Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller is the best in class. In fact, it’s even been awarded the EPA WaterSense certification and it’s been rigorously SWAT tested by independent third parties for quality and reliability.
- With the ability to work with up to 16 different zones, you can access your controls right from any Android or iOS device with the free and intuitive app. It’ll give you total control over the schedule and customization options for running your sprinklers at the most ideal times.
- Since it’s connected to your WiFi, Rachio will automatically read the weather forecast and adjust your watering schedule to the exact needs of your yard. These automatic rain delays are important for saving money over time.
- Easy to install and setup with no prior experience. Within a half hour, you can replace your current controller and have it up and running without flaws. There’s no need to be tech-savvy or use any special tools – the entire configuration process is easily achieved by anyone. Comes included with detailed and thorough instructions to get it up and running without hiccups.
- Also known as the most connected sprinkler control that seamlessly integrates into your smart home system. Whether you have Next, Amazon Alexa, IFTTT, Wink, Control4, Nexia, or other home automation systems, you can gain expanded functionality. However, these aren’t required so don’t worry if you don’t have a home automation system.
- Since it’s proudly designed and built in the USA (Colorado), you’re assured long lasting quality and functionality.
RainMachine Mini-8 Smart Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller
- The RainMachine Mini-8 Smart Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller is another excellent option for those looking to integrate WiFi into their sprinkler system for automated savings. It works by carefully analyzing multiple weather sources like NOAA, Weather Underground, and METNO so it’s always accurate with the best redundancy.
- Since it has such a detailed-eye on the incoming weather, it’ll adjust the watering amount and schedule. On rainy days when there isn’t such a need for irrigation, the RainMachine won’t over water. On hot, long summer days, it’ll increase the amount of water so everything in your yard stays nice and green.
- From your iPhone, Android, or any PC browser, you can gain access to your live irrigation system and see detailed statistics, adjust settings, and get a total insight.
- Since it’s EPA WaterSense certified, you can expect drastic savings on your utility bill since it’ll only operate at the most appropriate times. In fact, some local utility companies and municipalities are offering rebates for those who own a WaterSense certified system – check your local utility company to see if they have any rebates.
- The unit carries a sleek and attractive design that’s portable and easy to use. There’s a small illuminated touch pad and a bright LED display that offers a clean and simplistic appearance. This local interface gives you total control in even dimly lit locations like a basement or garage.
- Seamlessly connects to your home automation system. With Amazon Echo, Wink, Nest, NetAtmo, SmartThings, or any other smart home system, you can integrate the RainMachine for even easier use.
- We’ve listed the RainMachine Mini-8 which can control up to 8 zones, however, it also comes in 12 zone (RainMachine HD-12) and 16 zone (RainMachine HD-16) versions if you have a larger yard with more sprinklers.
SkyDrop Wifi-Enabled Smart Sprinkler Controller
- The SkyDrop Wifi-Enabled Smart Sprinkler Controller offers 8 fully independent zones (expandable to 16 zones) so you can have a specific, customized setting for each individual sprinkler. It’s the perfect system for those who have a yard that varies between soil type, slope type, shady, or sunny areas.
- Configure with your WiFi network and you’ll be able to take full advantage of detailed incoming weather forecasts thanks to the integrated Cloud service. It can even create it’s own watering schedule without any input from you so it can literally run on it’s own.
- Features an interactive dial with a beautiful menu screen that looks great on the wall, but gives you access to all of the features if you don’t happen to have your smartphone nearby.
- If you’re a Nest user, you can set it to send you specific water usage reports based on exact days of the week or hours of each day. If your water municipality has any restrictions or regulations on water usage, SkyDrop can limit the water usage so you never exceed any limits.
- Backed by an impressive 2 year (24 month) warranty period that assures it’s long lasting quality for a generous duration after you purchase it.
BlueSpray Internet & Wireless Irrigation Water Sprinkler Controller
- Designed for ultimate customization and massive expand-ability, the BlueSpray Internet-Connected Irrigation Controller is gives you the ability to set unlimited programs, unlimited start times, and unlimited seasons for up to 64 separately controller, independent zones.
- Connecting it to your WiFi opens up the access to any smartphone, tablet, or computer. Using the web-based controller, you’re given a wide range of flexibility with one of the most advanced schedulers on the market. It’s even suitable for agricultural or farming use since it’s packed with a wealth of customization options for both large and small yards.
- With integrated water-saving features, it’ll automatically suspend a watering task if NOAA indicates incoming rainfall or a wet forecast. It even has built-in sensors that detect rain water – if it senses it’s raining, the irrigation will be halted.
- Since there’s a flow sensor, if any leaks are ever detected, it’ll notify you and simultaneously shut off the system.
- Everything is fully operational through any web browser. This means that BlueSpray is compatible with virtually any computer, smartphone, or tablet – no matter how old it is.
- Probably the best option for those looking for ultimate customization options with a multitude of advanced settings.
Blossom Smart Watering Controller
- With a WiFi + Powerline connection and mobile compatibility with any iOS or Android device, the Blossom Smart Watering Controller is an affordable and effective option that’s suitable for up to 12 watering zones.
- Featuring Xona Technology, Blossom will analyze hundreds of different factors and come up with the most cost-effective and appropriate water schedule for specific sprinkler types, plants, and certain zone locations. Each zone will have it’s very own watering needs and Blossom is built to learn that over time to customize a watering pattern that makes sense for your wallet and your garden.
- With it’s 8.75″ x 8.75″ design, it fits well on just about any surface – even outside. From a distance, you’ll see a bright glow emit from the front-panel LED to let you know that your irrigation system is currently operating.
- With the easy to use app, you’re given full flexibility on the scheduling and specific zones. You can even turn on your sprinklers with a single tap using your smartphone. It’s a fun way to show it off to your neighbors and friends.
- Very easy to setup and install – no prior experience is needed. There’s no need to dig, no special tools, and there won’t be any need to hire an expensive contractor.
- With real-time weather intelligence, it’ll analyze current weather data from multiple sources for an accurate prediction on when your sprinklers need to be turned on next. Over time it will create a smart and specific watering plan based on several important factors – all on it’s own.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have a small or large irrigation system with 4 or 64 zones, a Smart WiFi Irrigation Sprinkler Controller can make a real difference in the overall efficiency and cost of your water usage. Designed to integrate seamlessly into your existing WiFi network, they offer a fun and smart way to mange your sprinkler system from virtually anywhere in the world.
We’ve outlined five fantastic options for 2016 – all of which are easy to use, painless to install, and built with quality feature in mind. Which one will you go with?
The post Best Smart WiFi Irrigation Sprinkler Controller Reviews 2016 appeared first on Nerd Techy.