Are you considering smart control for you irrigation system?
With Wi-Fi connectivity & smart control become all the more common for all appliances around the house, you’ll be happy to know that same level of control is available for the garden.
Wi-Fi connected irrigation controllers have been around for over 10 years so they are not new, and the remain fastest changing space in irrigation.
They offer all the standard features you would expect from your regular irrigation controller, plus additional features:
- Access to your irrigation system from anywhere in the world.
- Automatic adjustments based on local weather conditions.
- Instant alerts.
- Automatic shutdowns for major faults.
- Backup support/remote access from your contractor or manufacturer support lines.
Comparing Rain Bird vs Hunter
There are plenty of options on the market when it comes to Wi-Fi controllers, the two major brands are Rain Bird & Hunter. Key benefits of each can be seen below:
| Hunter Hydrawise | Rain Bird LNK | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | – Operation from Smart device or computer. – Vast range of configurations to suit most sites. – Most advanced and reliable software on the market. – Excellent Remote support options available. | – Traditional interface – Can be operated from controller or App. |
| Cons | – Non-traditional interface | – Can’t be controlled via PC – Limited station count and controller options. – Limited support |
The Hydrawise range is our most popular for irrigation control, for both DIY and Trade customers. It was invented in Melbourne, Australia and purchased by Hunter who have taken it to the next level with their unmatched irrigation experience & excellent manufacturing standards. And beyond the product itself, Hunter backs it up with the dedicated support and easy access for homeowners & contractors to remotely login and manage their systems.
What Contractors Say…
Andy Luxton from Always Greener Irrigation, who specialises in irrigation installations and repairs and they are based in Melbourne’s inner suburbs. He chooses to use Hydrawise as it offers him a high level of reliability in Wi-Fi connectivity and fantastic features and diagnostics.
Andy said: “Hydrawise are the easiest Wi-Fi controllers on the market to set up and maintain.. We love the fact that we can help troubleshoot and manage our client’s irrigation systems without even being on site. The automatic adjustments and alerts are a real game changer which allow my business to offer an extra layer of support to my valuable customers.
If I was going to make a suggestion to ensure a great Wi-Fi experience I would be recommending that a Wi-Fi strength test is carried out before the controller is installed. This makes sure a seamless and high quality experience is had by your customer.”
“The automatic adjustments and alerts are a real game changer“
What The Manufacturer Says…
Mark Chivilo from Hunter Industries suggested the Hunter Wi-Fi wizard app for iOS (Apple) was a great resource that Hunter has built to help customers run a simple strength test on site.
Mark also suggested that one of the reasons contractors choose Hydrawise is it’s ability to add value to their offering. “No longer do contractors simply install the controller on the wall and walk away, they can now offer the extra value of remote support and management of their clients’ irrigation systems.”
“There is also a great opportunity to save water using the Hydrawise weather adjustment triggers and the option to install a flow sensor which will shut your system down in the event of a leak or break”.
An outline of the Hydrawise range can be seen below:
| Model | Station Count | Fixed or Expandable | 2-Wire Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| X2 with Wand | 4, 6, 8, 14 | Fixed | No |
| HC | 6, 12 | Fixed | No |
| PRO-HC | 6, 12, 24 | Fixed | No |
| HPC | 4 – 32 | Expandable | Yes |
| HCC | 8 – 56 | Expandable | Yes |
The Hydrawise range covers most options you will need for residential through to light commercial applications. If you would like assistance in selecting the right controller for your next project get in touch with us here at Sunshower.
We have the expertise and product knowledge to help.
Happy Irrigating,
Simon Bando
