Sprinkler systems can run remotely with an app on the phone
What once seemed so futuristic has become almost commonplace: the smart home. With a few swipes on your phone, you can turn on the porch lights and crank up the air conditioner before you even arrive, thanks to smart technology (can we have dinner prepared, please?).
And now your phone is capable of running a smart yard. “With this tech-friendly option, the future is here for lawn and garden care,” says Shawn Anderson, Rock Solid’s Director of Operations and certified irrigation specialist. “You can operate your sprinkler system remotely, which is a benefit for busy folks who want beautiful turf and gardens, while at the same time conserving water.”
How smart sprinkler system technology works
The days of hauling hoses and hooking up sprinklers are giving way to the ease and efficiency of in-ground irrigation systems to keep plant life thriving. Add smart technology, and you can operate the central controller unit (which programs the time, location, and duration of watering, etc.) through your phone — even when you’re away from home.
Shawn and his team at Rock Solid like the efficiency of the Rain Bird® technology. “Once you download the Rain Bird app, you can operate the main controller to adjust start times, or suspend watering if, for example, you’re having an outdoor party.”
In addition to the factors programmed into the controller, the app also connects to GPS-enabled weather data to deliver the right amount of water to specific zones around your property.
Advantages of remote sprinkler system programming
Whether you’re on vacation, running errands, or reading a book on the couch, this highly customizable approach to lawn and garden care has many smart benefits:
- Tied to actual weather conditions, you only need to water when conditions require, thereby conserving water
- When combined with high-efficiency sprinkler heads, you can realize a 20%–40% reduction in water bills
- The app gives you the freedom to travel and still adjust watering schedules according to weather conditions back home
- No worries about new sod at Grandma’s or the garden at the cabin — check weather conditions there — the app can program multiple locations
- Eliminating over- and under-watering will promote healthy plants and turf, reducing weed growth
- Properly irrigate trees and perennials in addition to turf or new sod — protect your investment
DIY or go pro?
There are irrigation kits you can pick up at the big box stores if you’re a do-it-yourselfer. But there are many factors to consider when installing a sprinkler system where professional advice is warranted. (Drainage, coverage area, water pressure, and zone identification, to name a few.) Plus, you’ll want to take full advantage of the capabilities made available by technology for your lawn and garden.
We’re here to help you — and your yard — become smarter. Contact us at 763-398-0739.
