Selecting the right Irrigation Controller will depend on numerous factors; from your garden’s water requirements, to access to power, to budget. There are many controllers on the market that have very different features on offer and hopefully this guide will help you to select just what you need so you’re not paying for unnecessary functionality, or getting something that falls short of what you really need.
We have provided a brief introduction into each of the types of controller to give you a broad understanding of their capabilities.
Mechanical Tap Timers
Manual tap timers are best suited for temporary or low maintenance systems with little flow & pressure demands. Every time you need to water your garden, just set the timer & forget! It is a very simple and cost effective solution to a watering problem but still requires manual operation every time it is used.
- No. of Zones: 1
- Power Supply: None
- Operation: Manual
- Approx Price Range: $10 – $20
Tap Computers
Tap computers are an excellent value for money choice in small irrigation systems. They provide a convenient automatic option in areas where power is not accessible. They are well suited to basic watering needs where budget is a factor. Typically, limitations for Tap Computers include: Unreliability in high pressure applications, lower flow output & general longevity.
- No. of Zones: 1-4
- Power Supply: AA or 9V Batteries
- Operation: Manual/Automatic
- Approx Price Range: $50 – $100
Battery Powered Controllers
Much like the Tap Timers, Battery Powered Controllers are perfect for areas where no power is available. If not already included, these controllers are designed for installation with solenoid valves. These have far more comprehensive programming options, as well as superior longevity, flow output & pressure capacity than the budget Tap Timers. They are simple to program and save you the cost of installing a power point.
- No. of Zones:1-24
- Power Supply: AA or 9V Batteries
- Operation: Automatic
- Approx Price Range: $100 – $1,500
Solar Powered Controllers
If you haven’t got accessible power the solar powered controllers are an excellent option. Never before has there been a more literal version of set & forget. You get all the features of battery powered controllers without having to worry about changing the batteries which can easily be forgotten when heading away on a holiday. Your garden will stay watered for as long as it needs to.
- No. of Zones: 1-12
- Power Supply: Solar Panel
- Operation: Automatic
- Approx Price Range: $350 (controller and solar panel)
Mains Controllers
AC powered controllers are the most versatile & and reliable form of irrigation controller. They give you the ability to control multiple zones, most work with rain sensors as well as a having a whole bunch of extra features. If you want a permanent irrigation solution for your application, these controllers are the way to go.
- No. of Zones: 3-36+
- Power Supply: 240VAC (Mains)
- Operation: Automatic
- Approx Price Range: $70 – $1,500
Web Based Controllers
Irrigation controllers are moving into the digital age now having the capability of web based control. Monitor, adjust & maintain your garden’s watering system from your smartphone, tablet or web enabled device! But when looking around, it’s important to investigate as some require ongoing subscriptions, external SIM providers or connection to the wireless network. So it’s important to work out what suits your application. This is certainly the future of irrigation and will continue to develop over time with some excellent options already available.
- No. of Zones: 4-24
- Power Supply: 240VAC (input), 24VAC or 12VDC (output)
- Operation: Automatic
- Approx Price Range: $250 – $1500
