
The industry’s most flexible irrigation controller solution that supports flow monitoring, LNK WiFi, and up to 22 stations. With 4 to 22 stations, the ESP-ME3 provides the station count options customers need. Install the same controller on residential and light commercial sites. Add station modules when expanding irrigation without removing or even powering down the controller.
WaterSense Upgrade the ESP-ME3 to a SMART controller with EPA WaterSense certification by adding the LNK WiFi module and a WR2 rain sensor. The LNK makes programming and monitoring easy through the enhanced Rain Bird app.
For even greater water monitoring and protection from a broken irrigation system install a flow sensor.
Features:
- WiFi Connectivity: By simply plugging in a Rain Bird LNK WiFi Module (sold separately), users can access, operate and monitor their irrigation system from anywhere. Internet-based weather information is used to make daily adjustments to the irrigation schedule, saving up to 30% in water.
- Flow Monitoring: Compatible with multiple sizes and makes of wired flow sensors for flow monitoring and notifications to save water and protect against property damage.
- Flexible Installation. Configurable to 22 stations with additional 3 or 6 station modules for different sized jobs or future irrigation needs. Comes with power plug (120v and Australian models only) and outdoor cabinet for indoor or outdoor installation.
- Simplified Dial Programming.Large text and symbols make the color-coded dial positions easy to understand and explain.
- Easy to Read Screen. Large 3” (7.6cm) back-lit screen is clear to read in dark garages or sheds.
- Bypass the rain sensor for stations under an eave or deck or in a greenhouse for consistent watering.
- Save water by changing the seasonal adjust from 5% to 200% for corrected run times without changing the scheduled times.
- Alarm Notifications. Be alerted of system issues including electrical, programming, or high flow (when using a flow sensor) through a red LED and scrolling messages coupled with mobile device alerts when used with the LNK WiFi Module and the Rain Bird app.
- One-Touch Watering.With the dial in the AUTO position, just press and hold the right arrow button to start manually watering the current program.
- Contractor Default™. Simply save a default program and if the original watering schedule is overwritten in error, easily restore it in just two steps.
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Series Modular Irrigation Controller (Up to 22 Zones)
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (10 Zone Kit inc. module) SKU: ICO-RBESPME3/10KIT |
$419.06 $898.00 |
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (13 Zone Kit inc. modules) SKU: ICO-RBESPME3/13KIT |
$476.08 $1020.20 |
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (16 Zone Kit inc. modules) SKU: ICO-RBESPME3/16KIT |
$534.04 $1144.37 |
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (19 Zone Kit inc. modules) SKU: ICO-RBESPME3/19KIT |
$591.06 $1266.57 |
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (22 Zone Kit inc. modules) SKU: ICO-RBESPME3/22KIT |
$649.61 $1390.75 |
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (4 Zone base model) SKU: ICO-RBESPME3 |
$304.08 $651.62 |
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (7 Zone Kit inc. module) SKU: ICO-RBESPME3/07KIT |
$361.11 $773.82 |
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 3 Zone Expansion Module SKU: ICM-RBESPME3MOD3 |
$57.02 $122.20 |
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 6 Zone Expansion Module SKU: ICM-RBESPME3MOD6 |
$114.97 $246.38 |
Product Description
The industry’s most flexible irrigation controller solution that supports flow monitoring, LNK WiFi, and up to 22 stations. With 4 to 22 stations, the ESP-ME3 provides the station count options customers need. Install the same controller on residential and light commercial sites. Add station modules when expanding irrigation without removing or even powering down the controller.
WaterSense Upgrade the ESP-ME3 to a SMART controller with EPA WaterSense certification by adding the LNK WiFi module and a WR2 rain sensor. The LNK makes programming and monitoring easy through the enhanced Rain Bird app.
For even greater water monitoring and protection from a broken irrigation system install a flow sensor.
Features:
- WiFi Connectivity: By simply plugging in a Rain Bird LNK WiFi Module (sold separately), users can access, operate and monitor their irrigation system from anywhere. Internet-based weather information is used to make daily adjustments to the irrigation schedule, saving up to 30% in water.
- Flow Monitoring: Compatible with multiple sizes and makes of wired flow sensors for flow monitoring and notifications to save water and protect against property damage.
- Flexible Installation. Configurable to 22 stations with additional 3 or 6 station modules for different sized jobs or future irrigation needs. Comes with power plug (120v and Australian models only) and outdoor cabinet for indoor or outdoor installation.
- Simplified Dial Programming.Large text and symbols make the color-coded dial positions easy to understand and explain.
- Easy to Read Screen. Large 3” (7.6cm) back-lit screen is clear to read in dark garages or sheds.
- Bypass the rain sensor for stations under an eave or deck or in a greenhouse for consistent watering.
- Save water by changing the seasonal adjust from 5% to 200% for corrected run times without changing the scheduled times.
- Alarm Notifications. Be alerted of system issues including electrical, programming, or high flow (when using a flow sensor) through a red LED and scrolling messages coupled with mobile device alerts when used with the LNK WiFi Module and the Rain Bird app.
- One-Touch Watering.With the dial in the AUTO position, just press and hold the right arrow button to start manually watering the current program.
- Contractor Default™. Simply save a default program and if the original watering schedule is overwritten in error, easily restore it in just two steps.
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Manuals & Links
Product Specifications
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (10 Zone Kit inc. module) | Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (13 Zone Kit inc. modules) | Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (16 Zone Kit inc. modules) | Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (19 Zone Kit inc. modules) | Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (22 Zone Kit inc. modules) | Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (4 Zone base model) | Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Modular Irrigation Controller (7 Zone Kit inc. module) | Rain Bird ESP-ME3 3 Zone Expansion Module | Rain Bird ESP-ME3 6 Zone Expansion Module | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Product Warranty | 2 Year | 2 Year | 2 Year | 2 Year | 2 Year | 2 Year | 2 Year | 2 Year | 2 Year |
Product Type | Controller Module | Controller Module | Controller Module | Controller Module | Controller Module | Modular Controller | Modular Controller | Controller Module | Controller Module |
Product Power Supply | 240v AC | 240v AC | 240v AC | 240v AC | 240v AC | 240v AC | 240v AC | 24v AC | 24v AC |
Product Power Output | 24v AC | 24v AC | 24v AC | 24v AC | 24v AC | 24v AC | 24v AC | 24v AC | 24v AC |
Product No. of Programs | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
Product No. of Start Times | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
Product No. of Zones | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 4 | 7 | 3 | 6 |
Product Max Zones (With Modules) | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 |
Product Max. Run Time | 6 Hours | 6 Hours | 6 Hours | 6 Hours | 6 Hours | 6 Hours | 6 Hours | 6 Hours | 6 Hours |
Residential Irrigation Controllers FAQs
There’s no single answer for any system because of a range of factors. So work with trial and error. If you’ve got no idea, maybe start at 5-10 mins. Then think about watering days depending on the time of year, if it’s summer, everyday, but winter maybe once a week.
In rare applications, like on a wall under a well covered patio where the space is 100% dry all the time & not exposed to the sun, an indoor controller will continue to operate without issue. But if you’re not sure, we recommend installing an outdoor model. If something does go wrong with your controller due to water damage or the LCD screen failing from sun exposure, the warranty is voided so it’s not worth the risk.
Yes, irrigation controllers typically have a manual function, this will allow you to both operate all zones, or each one individually as you please.
Domestic irrigation controllers will always operate zones one at a time. Even if you try to operate 2 to come on at the same time, the controller will automatically delay the operation of the second zone until after the first zone has finished running.
In some states a rain sensor is mandatory, but regardless it’s something you should include in your irrigation system. Having your system turn on in the middle of a day of rain is not only embarrassing, it’s a terrible waste of water & the overwatering is bad for your garden!
The easiest irrigation controller to program has a simple interface, that’s easy to manage. And the world’s best was developed right here in Melbourne, Australia! Hunter’s Hydrawise range offers Wi-Fi capabilities and a user-friendly app that simplifies programming all from a smartphone. Tap timers and basic residential controllers, offer an even simpler solution without all the bells and whistles.
To choose the right irrigation controller, consider the size of your landscape, the number of zones you need to manage, your water source and whether you prefer a Wi-Fi, solar-powered or battery-operated model. For personalised advice and to find the best fit for your system, try our free instant quote or request a quote from our design department.
Fully installed by a professional, a domestic irrigation system will come out to about $1000 per zone. And as a DIY project, it can look more like $300 per zone! But of course that’s a very rough estimate, each system is different and there are a lot of factors to consider. Thankfully, we have the only tool around that INSTANTLY give an accurate estimate for your. Try our INSTANT Irrigation Quote Tool here!
To choose the right irrigation system, consider the size and layout of your garden or lawn, the types of plants you’re watering and your water source. Spray systems are ideal for most applications like lawns and gardens, while drip irrigation works well for mulched garden beds and areas exposed to wind and evaporation. For expert advice tailored to your needs, request a quote from us.
To set up an irrigation system, start by planning the layout, then install the mainline pipes, valves and fittings. Attach the sprinklers, drip emitters or other irrigation devices, and connect the system to a controller. Finally, test and adjust the system to check for proper coverage and efficiency. For a more precise and tailored setup, visit our Design Department. Our experts can design and quote a customised irrigation system that perfectly fits your landscape.
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