Irrigation timers enable you to customize numerous variables within an automatic irrigation system. These include zone-specific water distribution, which can also be time-based. You can choose the specific days of the week for automatic lawn watering. The choices are abundant, but make sure you monitor regional watering restrictions, especially if you live in a drought-prone area.
Irrigation timer types
Irrigation system timers are embedded in your water system through an exterior or internal wall. They are used to run the system efficiently. You get zone-specific watering control. They have features similar to hose timers but require higher maintenance skills. They are compatible with both underground and regular irrigation systems.
You can pick from three irrigation timer variants: hybrid, mechanical, and electronic.
- Basic mechanical timers require manual operation but are budget-friendly. You need to monitor your lawn’s condition and make adjustments accordingly.
- Electronic timers offer more features and you can control them remotely using computers or smartphones. This helps in making real-time changes based on weather patterns. Some electronic timers support both regular and drip irrigation systems.
- Hybrid timers offer both sides’ features and come with easy-to-use sliders.
If you’re looking for an easier option, go for hose-installed irrigation timers. Easy to set up, these timers come in various prices and feature sets. The main benefits are:
- Available in electrical, mechanical, and battery-operated variants.
- Can be connected between two hoses or to an outdoor tap.
- Available in single or multiple-hose options. In multiple-hose timers, there is one input water source and multiple outputs.
Zones and programs
Irrigation systems operate across a number of zones, also called circuits, which share the same irrigation valve and water lines. Areas are zoned for better and more precise water distribution.
You may divide your yard into different irrigation zones. This ensures that grass gets more water than the shrubs and trees, making water usage more efficient.
Choose an irrigation system that allows you to control all the zones in your lawn.
Some basics irrigation tips:
- A single valve supports several sprinkler heads to cover a zone.
- Programs are watering schedules that determine the system’s duration and frequency.
- Single-program timers meet basic watering needs and water all zones simultaneously.
- Multiple-program timers cover specific zones individually for more sufficient watering.
Efficiency options
To water your lawn with ease, choose a timer with helpful features like a built-in calendar and sunlight sensors.
- Shield outdoor timers using a weather-resistant cabinet.
- A skip button allows you to exclude a zone without reprogramming the entire system.
- An interval feature lets you pause watering for several days.
- An integrated calendar helps you choose specific days of the week to water the lawn.
- Sunlight sensors adjust water levels to offset evaporation on hotter days, while moisture sensors shut the system down during rainy periods.
- Rain delay buttons help you disable the system during storm events.
- An odd/even setting is ideal for areas with limited watering days.
- A battery backup helps save the settings during power outages, so you don’t need to reprogram everything.
- Irrigation control timers with a Watersense label help reduce overwatering.
Smart timers
Smart timers help you automate and optimize lawn watering :
- Customize and control lawn watering schedule from mobile devices or a PC.
- Adjust watering in sync with seasonal changes.
- Use advanced watering algorithms and specific yard data to create efficient watering plans that save money and water.
- Integrate with smart home platforms like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
- Receive real-time notifications and provide remote access to contractors.
- View detailed water usage reports.
An irrigation timer helps you automate watering and keep the lawn healthy. Using a smart timer allows you to fine-tune water levels in accordance with local watering restrictions and climate. It also generates usage reports and helps manage your water bills effectively.
