Our wet spring has continued into June with constant thunderstorms. It’s a challenge to turn your sprinkler system off every time it rains-- not to mention remembering to turn it on again before your grass becomes crispy. Sprinkler manufacturers have solved this problem through the rain sensor. June is the perfect time to consider installing one.
Rain sensors simply prevent your automatic sprinkler system from running when it’s rained. The sensor is installed in an open area of your yard. When it captures rainfall, it communicates with your irrigation controller and temporarily stops it from watering. Once the sensor dries out, the irrigation controller resumes its normal schedule. By eliminating unnecessary watering, a rain sensor can save you money and stretch our community’s limited water resources.
Adding a rain sensor to an existing sprinkler system is easy. Install the sensor on the top of a fence or at the edge of your roof. Just make sure it’s in an open area and not blocked from the rain by a tree or building or other object.
Rain sensors can communicate with your sprinkler controller through a wire or through a wireless connection. Wired sensors need a path for the wire between the sensor in the yard and the controller. Wireless options give you more flexibility on where to install the sensor. Be sure to check the maximum distance between the sensor and controller before you buy.
We offer a rebate to help offset the cost of adding a rain sensor to your sprinkler system. Wired sensors are eligible for a $25 rebate, while wireless options qualify for a $50 rebate. All models are eligible. They can be purchased through online retailers, home improvement stores or irrigation supply stores.
Before you purchase, check your irrigation controller to make sure it has a rain sensor port to connect to the rain sensor. Most irrigation controllers sold in the last decade have one. If yours doesn’t, it might be time to upgrade to a smart controller, which also is eligible for a $50 rebate. Smart controllers have the added benefit of adjusting the watering schedule based on actual weather. It will water less often during cool weather and more often when it’s hot and dry. Most have a smartphone app as well, which simplifies setup and management.
While not required, adding a rain sensor to a smart controller can fine tune the controller’s performance by sensing actual rainfall in your yard rather than using data from a nearby weather station.
We promote the wise use of water. If you have an automatic sprinkler system, adding a rain sensor and a smart controller is an easy way to enjoy the relief of spring and summer rain showers even if you’re asleep or away from home—save water and money no matter where you are.