The Best WiFi Irrigation Controllers for Water Savings in Australia

Installing a smart WiFi-enabled irrigation controller is one of the best ways to conserve water in your garden and outdoors. Smart controllers adjust your watering schedule automatically based on weather, plant types, soil moisture levels and other data. This prevents overwatering and ensures your lawn and landscaping get exactly the right amount of water.

In this article, we’ll explore the leading options for WiFi irrigation controllers available in Australia. We’ll look at key features to consider and provide tips on how much water you can potentially save.

Why Smart Irrigation Controllers Save Water

Traditional irrigation timers simply run on a set schedule such as 15 minutes every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The problem is your yard’s water needs change daily based on weather, seasonality, soil type and other factors.

Smart WiFi-connected controllers adjust your watering schedule automatically based on real-time conditions. Here are some key ways they conserve water:

• Weather tracking – Smart controllers get real-time weather feeds and will delay watering if it is raining or if high humidity levels indicate the soil has enough moisture. This prevents watering when it’s not needed.
• Soil sensors – Built-in or add-on soil moisture sensors tell the system exactly how dry the soil is. Watering only occurs when soil reaches preset dryness thresholds.
• Leak detection – Flow meters detect abnormal usage that may indicate a broken sprinkler head or irrigation line leak.
• Rain sensors – These detect recent rainfall. The system avoids watering for 1-7 days after significant rain, depending on your preferences.
• Watering restrictions – WiFi controllers can be updated remotely to comply with local watering restrictions that may be imposed during drought conditions.
• Zoning – Smart controllers allow zoning so different plant and turf areas get tailored watering based on their needs and sun exposure.
• Evapotranspiration data – Smart controllers use ET data on plant water loss to determine optimum runtimes. This avoids overwatering.

Adding smart control to your system can reduce outdoor irrigation water usage by 15% to over 50% annually. The exact savings depend on your existing schedule, plant types and weather patterns.

Features to Look for in Smart WiFi Irrigation Controllers

Here are key criteria to consider when selecting a smart irrigation control system:

• WiFi connectivity – Allows changing settings and monitoring usage from your smartphone wherever you are
• Weather tracking – Uses real-time and forecast temperature, rainfall and humidity data to optimize watering
• Soil moisture sensing – Has built-in or add-on soil moisture probes to determine if watering is needed
• Flow monitoring – Detects high flow situations that may indicate leaks or broken sprinkler heads
• Rain sensor input – Has input for a rain sensor that suspends watering after rainfall
• Zoning – Supports multiple independent zones with customized watering schedules
• High expandability – Allows adding multiple smart modules and sensors
• ET/temperature sensors – Uses evapotranspiration and temperature data to determine optimum runtimes
• Easy programming – Simple mobile and web apps for manual scheduling and making adjustments
• Voice control – Integration with smart assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant
• Alerts – Notifies you of leaks, faults, high usage and other issues

Ideally, look for a controller that offers weather tracking, zoning, soil moisture sensing, flow monitoring, scheduling abilities and mobile access. These key features will maximize potential water savings.

Leading Smart Irrigation Controller Brands in Australia

Here are some of the top smart WiFi irrigation control systems available in the Australian market:

Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller

Rachio is likely the most popular smart irrigation controller brand in Australia. Their Rachio 3 provides weather intelligence, soil moisture sensors, flow monitoring, leak alerts and more. It controls up to 16 zones and integrates with smart home systems.

The Rachio 3 works with their soil moisture sensors that you simply insert into the ground in each zone. These tell the controller exactly how dry the soil is to prevent unnecessary watering.

Control is easy through the smartphone app orvoice commands via Alexa or Google Home speakers. Rachio also offers the Rachio 3e single-zone controller.

Netro Smart WiFi Sprinkler Controller

Netro by Raindrip is another top smart irrigation controller choice with wifi and app connectivity. It accommodates up to 12 stations and has inputs for flow meters, rain sensors and soil humidity probes.

Advanced weather tracking uses local rainfall, temperature, wind and humidity data to determine ideal watering times and durations. The system is Alexa-compatible for voice control and supports up to 8 soil sensors.

Orbit B-hyve Smart Hose Faucet Timer

For smart control of outdoor faucets and hose-end sprinklers, Orbit’s B-hyve timer is a popular choice. This smart timer attaches to any standard garden faucet or hose tap and provides WiFi-controlled, timed watering.

You can manually control the faucet from your phone, or set automated schedules with weather intelligence. The system accommodates up to 12 zones when used with add-on B-hyve modules. Alexa and Google voice commands are supported.

Hunter HC Hybrid Controller

The Hunter HC combines traditional electromechanical control with smart WiFi connectivity. You get reliable, local control using the physical dial, plus remote access via mobile app. It operates up to 22 stations.

The controller gathers weather data to automatically adjust watering times and frequency. Soil moisture sensors are also supported to further refine watering schedules based on actual soil moisture levels.

Toro Evolution Series Irrigation Controllers

Toro is a trusted name in irrigation, and their Evolution series controllers offer smart control for residential applications. The WiFi controllers work with Toro’s Turf Guard wireless soil probes and support up to 12 zones.

Scheduling and adjustments can be made through the Toro Bhyve app. WeatherSense intelligence automatically skips watering when rain is expected and makes other runtime adjustments based on weather conditions.

Galcon Smart Irrigation Controller

Galcon controllers are designed for larger residential, commercial and agricultural applications. Models like the Galcon Smart provide WiFi connectivity and control of up to 24 irrigation valves or zones.

Soil moisture sensors help prevent overwatering. Contractors can remotely monitor multiple controllers and zones to ensure proper operation. Alerts notify you of any flow issues or failures.

Cost of Smart WiFi Irrigation Controllers

Expect to pay $150 to $350 for most residential smart controllers. Simple timers for single faucets start around $100, while heavy duty commercial controllers cost over $500.

The controller is the largest upfront cost, but you’ll also need to budget for wireless soil sensors and potentially flow meters, rain sensors and other add-on devices. These additional sensors and tools lead to even greater water optimization but add $50 to $200 in most cases.

Professional installation for a complex commercial system can run $500 to $1500. But most DIY homeowners can handle installing a basic standalone smart controller in around an hour. The effort is well worth it when you consider the thousands of liters and dollars these systems can save annually.

How Much Water Do Smart Controllers Save?

Water savings from smart irrigation controllers vary based on:

• Your current controller type and watering frequency & duration
• Climate and seasonal rainfall in your area
• Types of plants in each zone (grass vs shrubs, native vs non-native, etc.)
• Soil types – sandy soil requires more frequent watering
• Use of moisture sensors, rain sensors and other data inputs

A typical home without smart control waters 2-3 times per week, 15 minutes per zone, amounting to 150+ liters per zone daily. Installing a Rachio smart controller with moisture sensing could cut this by 50% or more by watering only when truly needed.

For a 10 zone system, the savings could exceed 75,000+ liters annually.

Commercial sites, parks and gardens with larger irrigation systems controlled by smart technologies can conserve 25,000 to over 1 million liters annually depending on size. The payback from using water wisely quickly offsets the hardware investment.

Professional Installation or DIY?

Complex commercial irrigation systems with dozens of zones should be installed by an experienced irrigation contractor. They have the expertise to fully configure valves, piping, wiring, controllers and sensors to maximize efficiency.

Choosing the Right Smart Controller for Your System

Consider the following when selecting a smart irrigation controller for your site:

System Size and Zones

Determine how many zones or independent sprinkler circuits you need to control. Look for a controller that accommodates all your zones plus allows some room for future expansion.

Each zone may water different plant types with varying needs. Smart controllers allow custom scheduling by zone.

Location and WiFi Signal

The controller needs adequate WiFi signal to connect with weather services and your mobile app. Ensure your WiFi router reaches the planned mounting location, or install a signal extender if needed.

Opt for a standalone battery operated unit if WiFi is unavailable. These still provide weather-based scheduling but via built-in radios rather than an internet connection.

Power Source

Smart controllers can be powered by 120-240V AC mains power or with internal batteries recharged via a solar panel. Hardwired AC provides the most reliable power, but solar gives flexibility for remote areas.

Soil Moisture Sensing

Look for native support for wireless soil moisture probes or modules. Checking soil humidity in real-time yields the greatest water savings by preventing unnecessary watering cycles.

Flow Monitoring

Choose a controller that can integrate flow meters to monitor usage. Sudden spikes likely indicate an irrigation system leak or rupture that should be addressed immediately.

Ease of Installation

Evaluate wiring complexity and physical dimensions. Allow ample room for any conduit and ensure your planned mounting area has enough space.

Mobile App Reviews

Check reviews of the smartphone app. The app lets you view usage data, alter schedules, control valves manually and more. An intuitive, feature-packed app is essential.

Selecting the right WiFi irrigation controller takes some research. Determine your needs, watering goals and budget. Look for advanced moisture sensing, usage monitoring and weather tracking to maximize conservation.

Top Smart Irrigation Controller Models

Here are five of the top-rated WiFi irrigation controllers currently available in Australia:

Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller

• 16 zone capacity
• Weather intelligence and soil moisture sensing
• Leak detection and automated alerts
• App and voice control

Hunter HC Hybrid Controller

• Controls up to 22 stations
• Physical dial plus WiFi connectivity
• Works with soil moisture probes
• Weather tracking technology

Netro by Raindrip Smart WiFi Controller

• 12 zone wireless control
• Real-time weather tracking
• Flow meter and rain sensor compatible
• Supports up to 8 soil sensors

Orbit B-hyve Smart Faucet Timer

• Automated hose faucet watering
• Attaches to standard outdoor faucets
• Control via app or voice
• Uses weather forecasts to schedule watering

Galcon Smart Irrigation Controller

• Commercial grade reliability
• Controls up to 24 zones
• Cloud monitoring and data logging
• Flow monitoring and alerts

Water Saving Tips for Irrigation Systems

Beyond smart controls, some simple tactics can squeeze even more savings from your irrigation system:

• Inspect sprinklers and lines for leaks monthly. Repair promptly.
• Adjust spray patterns to avoid watering pavement and structures.
• Aerate lawns and turf occasionally to improve drainage and soil health.
• Group plants by watering needs – lawn areas separate from shrubs.
• Water early morning or at night to minimize evaporation.
• Consider drip irrigation for shrubs, trees and gardens for slow, targeted watering.
• Let grass grow taller in summer – longer roots improve drought tolerance.
• Limit bare soil areas which require the most frequent watering.

Smart technology combined with some periodic maintenance lets you keep landscapes lush while conserving our precious water supplies. Monitor usage closely and continually refine your system for maximum efficiency.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general guidance and informational purposes only. Always engage certified irrigation specialists as needed. Contact your local water provider regarding any regulations for outdoor watering in your area. Your specific water savings will depend on system size, plants, weather and other factors.