AC powered irrigation controllers are the most versatile & and reliable form of irrigation control. The ability to control multiple zones, with flexible program options & seasonal adjustments are a standard feature with most, as is compatibility with vast offerings of rain, moisture & weather sensors. So with so many options out there, the question is, what should you be looking for?
Indoor or Outdoor Mount?
The first thing to consider is where you want to mount your controller. Think about your best access to a powerpoint. Indoor mount controllers are less expensive but you’ll have to think about penetrating the wall to get the irrigation cable to your irrigation valves. If you have access to power outside, an outdoor mount controller is the simplest option, running cables to valves & sensors is much simpler & it is our recommendation.
Fixed Station or Modular?
Once you have planned your irrigation system layout, you need to establish how many watering zones, or stations, you will have (check our other guides for working out your zones). If your plan covers your entire garden & you’re confident there won’t be any changes in your zones, a fixed station controller is for you. This is the most common choice, but be mindful, because if you think future zones may be added, you’ll need to purchase a fixed station controller with that extra capacity. If however, you’re building your system as you go, consider a modular controller. They come with a base number of zones, then, by purchasing modules, the zone capacity of the controller can be increased so you can build as you go.
Programming Options
Each controller offers similar but slightly different programming options, often more comprehensive than the typical domestic irrigation system would require. The options include:
- Programs: Multiple programs allow you to group watering zones depending on their irrigation requirements so you can set different watering schedules. (eg: Program A – Lawn zones, Program B – garden zones)
- Start Times: Each controller has a limit to how many times it will allow any zone to come on per day. In most cases you’ll only ever need to run a zone once per day, but for areas with special watering requirements or during heatwaves this can be useful.
- Watering Duration: This is simply how long a controller will allow for a system to run. All controllers offer very similar options.
- Seasonal Adjustment: A garden typically needs less water in cooler, wetter months than it does in the summer. So many controllers have the function to allow for seasonal adjustment which will automatically adjust your programmed watering durations by a percentage. Â
Sensor Compatibility
In most states, some sort of weather sensor is required on all automatic irrigation systems. So it is well worth considering which sensors, out of the ones available, are compatible with the controller you’re considering. Each brand does offer a basic rain sensor, but if you’re after something more comprehensive we recommend having a look at the range of sensors available before locking into a controller. (check our other guides for further information on irrigation sensors)