A terrific way to conserve water is to invest in the RainBird LNK Wifi-Module which you can easily program to automatically adjust to current weather conditions. You can manage your system from a central controller or your iPhone or Android phone – it’s that easy. This wireless system also recognizes when it’s raining, so your irrigation system doesn’t have to do any extra work, however, we do recommend installing an on-site rain sensor to ensure your system has the most accurate weather data.
Today, you don’t have to deal with wires to achieve the perfect lawn solution. But with so many options on the market, how do you know what’s best? Take a look at this guide so you can choose the perfect wireless sprinkler system.
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How Sprinkler Systems Work
There are two components to a wireless irrigation system: the controller and the rain sensor. The controller is what you use to operate the sprinklers throughout your property. Traditionally, you’d have to turn your system on and off whenever you wanted the lawn watered. Now, there are boxes that include timers, so the system operates on its own. Traditionally, controllers were programmed with dates and times to water your lawn. With a WiFi-Module, you can control and monitor your system from anywhere and you now have the option to let the system adjust automatically.
A rain sensor uses technology to determine the level of rainfall at any given time. When it starts to storm, a certain amount of rain will trigger the system to shut off and it will reactivate once the sensor dries out. Once the system is reactivated, your sprinkler will run at the next scheduled run time. The connection between the sensor and the irrigation system controller is interrupted, so the sprinklers know not to operate. Such devices are handy when you’re out of town or the area you live in experiences irregular weather patterns.
Types of Wireless Sprinkler Rain Sensors
These systems have become more intelligent and user-friendly. In general, all wireless networks have the same mechanics. They’re installed in a central location and include a timer and control panel. But rain sensors differ slightly. There are two main options for rain sensors:
- Water Collection Basins (Tipping Buckets): This sensor has a small cup attached that collects rainfall. When the water hits a marked line, the sensor triggers a switch and the sprinkler system stops operating. Newer models work with electrodes, so that while the weight of an object won’t signal the sensor, even the slightest rain shower can. This type of rain sensor is most common in older sprinkler models and is not commonly used. This type of rain sensor may be used as an on-site weather system.
- Expansion Disk: Also known as a hygroscopic disk, this sensor tries to mimic what is happening in the soil when it rains. A gauge made of cork or synthetic material expands when wet. At a specific point, the disk will interrupt the irrigation system, so it shuts off. Then, once the object is fully dry, it restarts the sprinklers. This is a very popular way of disarming a sprinkler system when it rains.
If you currently have a sprinkler system, be sure to choose a compatible rain sensor. That said, almost every wireless rain sensor will fit with your configured setup. For a whole new operation, choose a wireless controller and rain sensor from the same brand.
Choose the Perfect Wireless Sprinkler Controller at Nature’s Helper
A RainBird LNK Wifi-Module is an ideal way to save money, conserve water and make sure your sprinkler system lasts. Their convenience is unmatched – you’ll never have to worry about your yard again. Want one for your home? Contact Nature’s Helper to explore your options and make installation a breeze.
