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Why You Need a Smart Controller

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smart controller and a phoneControllers were once a simple clock that could only be programmed to start and stop sprinkler run times, regardless of actual weather and soil conditions. Today’s controllers, known as smart controllers, are far more advanced than those earlier models, and if you don’t have one, you really should think about upgrading. Not only do they reduce water waste, but they’ll also save you money. In communities where there are watering restrictions, smart controllers can keep your plants and lawn healthy within conservation watering schedules. Austin Water even has a rebate program for irrigation upgrades.

Here are some of the features available in the current generation of smart irrigation controllers:

  • Programmable using a computer, tablet, or smartphone. The system’s current status can be viewed and changes made to the program remotely. Programming can also be done manually at the panel.
  • Flow sensor data. The flow sensor will shut down the system if it detects a flow higher than the programmed limit, which could indicate ruptures or leaks.
  • Rain sensor data. The controller will shut down the system if a specific amount of rain has fallen, or even prevent the system from starting if rain is detected.
  • Soil moisture sensor data. The controller won’t start the system if it senses the soil is wet enough.
  • Freezer sensor data. The controller won’t turn on if the temperature drops to a specific degree (e.g. 37 degrees).
  • Wind sensor data. The controller will shut off the irrigation system during periods of high wind (shut down points are adjustable), then automatically reset the system when conditions are more favorable.
  • Daily weather data received either remotely, or from an on-site weather station, and used to determine watering needs.
  • Detailed statistical reports and charts provided to allow users to track water usage and manage scheduling.
  • Automatic notifications of failure alerts sent by email or text to a technician and/or home owner.
  • Operates without WiFi.
  • Allows customized watering for zones.
  • Works with digital assistants, so you can start or stop your various zones with a voice command.
  • This document provides a comparison of smart controllers, including detailed information about each controller’s capabilities and specifications. There’s also a list of definitions used with smart controllers at the end of the document.

There are two types of smart controllers: weather-based or evapotranspiration (ET) controllers, and soil moisture-based controllers.

Weather-Based ET Controllers

Weather-based ET controllers use weather data derived from evapotranspiration (ET) calculations (the sum of evaporation from the land surface plus transpiration from plants) as a basis for scheduling irrigation. ET is used to determine when and how much irrigation water is needed, and is usually expressed as the depth of water in inches or the volume of water in gallons used by a planted area for a period of a day, week, month or year. The best ET weather data uses temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation for its calculations. There are generally four types of ET controllers:

Historical ET Controllers

These use historical weather and water use data for your area to determine what amount of water is required. Usually it only resets the time monthly. The historic data is not perfect, but for most users it still gives significant water savings. Occasionally, you will have to override the automatic control settings, especially if you have unusually hot weather for the month. On some models you only have to enter your zip code to set up the controller, and it accesses the historic data from its memory. On other models you have to manually key in the historic data from the user’s manual or a website.

Historical ET Controllers With a Sensor

These controllers use historical data to determine watering time, but then adjust the time based on a sensor, either a temperature or solar radiation sensor. This combination is more accurate than just using the historical data alone. If the daily high temperature is higher than the historical data, the controller adds more time. If the temperature that day is lower, the controller reduces the watering time.

Signal-Based Controllers

This type of controller uses water and/or weather data provided by a remote provider. The controller receives data from either a central data provider, or from a local weather station via radio, the Internet, or a mobile device. Usually there’s a subscription charge for the data service, as well as charges for the smartphone, tablet, Internet, or radio link. The data can be very accurate if it comes from a nearby weather station. It can also be very accurate if it comes from a central database of historic data that is managed expertly for current conditions.

On-Site Weather Measurement Controllers

These controllers have their own weather stations you install with it that calculate ET continuously, and adjust the irrigation times according to weather conditions. Such sophisticated controller systems can provide accurate data if the sensors are high quality, positioned according to required standards, and well-maintained to keep them functioning.

Soil Moisture-Based Controllers

This type uses sensors to determine the moisture content of the soil. Moisture sensors are buried at the root zone level of turf, trees, or shrubs, to measure the actual amount of moisture in the soil and transmit this information to the controller. The system compares this reading to the recommended moisture level for the plant, soil type and other variables that were programmed when the controller was first installed.

Soil moisture sensor controllers (SMS) use two types of control strategies: by-pass and on-demand.

Bypass SMS Controllers

These are set like traditional timed controllers, with watering schedules, start times, and duration. However, the system will stop the next scheduled irrigation when it senses there’s enough moisture in the soil. Most of these types of controllers are added to an existing time clock, and many of these only include one soil moisture sensor. In this case the sensor should be buried in the driest irrigation zone, and the run times for the other zones should be adjusted to prevent over-watering. Some controllers, though, have multiple sensors, one for each irrigation zone.

On-Demand SMS Controllers

These controllers aren’t programmed for duration, only for start times and days of the week for watering. They initiate irrigation at a user-set  low soil moisture threshold, and terminate irrigation at a high threshold.

Soil moisture-based controllers can be retrofitted on existing irrigation systems. Many manufacturers also make soil moisture sensors that can retrofit to existing systems and interface with the current controller already on-site.

For advice on what type of controller is best for you, and for repairs and maintenance of your sprinkler system, call South Austin Irrigation at (512) 534-7449 or fill out our service request form.

Winterizing Your Above Ground Backflow Preventer

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Winterizing Your Above Ground Backflow Preventer

 

This part of Texas has mild winters, but we do get freezes. You need to protect your above ground backflow preventer when the temperature drops below 32°F so that trapped water doesn’t freeze, expand, and damage the device.

 

The Importance of a Backflow Preventer

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Code Rule 344.50 states, “Any irrigation system that is connected to a public or private potable water supply must be connected through a commission-approved backflow prevention method”. The rule also lists the different types of backflow preventers that are permitted under certain conditions.

All irrigation system backflow preventers have the same purpose: to keep water flowing in one direction and to prevent contaminated water in the irrigation system from reversing and entering your family’s potable (suitable for drinking) water supply and the city’s water supply.

Irrigation water is a contaminant (creates a health hazard) and not just a pollutant (objectionable in odor or color). Toxic chemicals (fertilizers, pesticides, etc.) and animal waste can flow back up your irrigation pipes and into your drinking water if not prevented. The valves that turn your irrigation system on and off are not adequate to stop a backflow. They can be open when the backflow occurs (your sprinkler system is on), or they can break or leak, which is why a backflow preventer is vital to protect you. Many of the automatic valves, such as the electric solenoid valves, don’t stop backflow even when fully closed and “off”. They are directional in design, and when a backflow occurs, they will open slightly.

How do backflows occur? Normally, the water pressure in the home’s water supply keeps the irrigation water from going backwards. However, if the pressure drops suddenly, this could cause a negative pressure in the home’s main supply. Negative pressure creates a siphoning effect, causing the water to flow backwards. Although such events are rare, water can be sucked out of sprinkler lines into the main water supply, and from there into household plumbing fixtures, such as bathtubs, sinks, showers, tubs, toilets, and faucets. This can happen when your water company shuts off the water for repairs, or installs a new pipe. Fire fighters pumping water out of fire hydrants can cause water pressure in nearby areas to drop, creating a backflow in those areas.

Winterizing an RPZ (Reduced Pressure Zone) Backflow Preventer

1. Shut off the isolation valve. This valve is usually found in the ground inside a green colored valve box, either close to the backflow device or the water meter. The isolation valve needs to be “freeze proof” — either below the frost line, or wrapped with insulation.

2. If you have an automatic controller, turn it to the “off” or “rain” mode position, shutting off signals to the valves so they don’t come on. The controller will continue to keep time, and your programming won’t be lost. It’s a wise precaution to shut off the power to the controller if a pump is wired to it. The pump could get damaged if, by a remote chance, the controller started it when the system was shut off. When you start up the system again, you’ll have to reprogram the time, and possibly your settings. Mechanical controllers use more electricity than the automatic ones, so turn off their power to save electricity. You have no settings to lose in this case.

3. Remove the dust caps from the four test cocks on the RPZ.

4. Take a small flat-head screwdriver and turn the screw in the center of each test cock to a 45 degree angle, opening up the test port. Water may shoot out with some pressure, and drip for a short time. Leave the screws at 45 degrees, which is the halfway off position. Any water left in the device should evaporate, so there isn’t any left inside to freeze and cause damage.

5. Next, turn shutoff #1 and shutoff #2 handles to a 45 degree angle or the halfway off position. This prevents water from being trapped in the shutoffs and causing freezing damage to them (never leave the shutoff handles in the fully open or closed position when freeze protecting your device).

6. Loosen bolts on the relief valve cover until the water drains.

7. Insulate the RPZ by wrapping the device in foam pipe wrap, followed by a heavy rubber tape to protect the insulation. Then cover the backflow device with an insulation bag.

8. If you wish to run your system once the freeze is over, remove the insulation bag, and open the isolation valve. Water will shoot out of the device test ports, allowing any air or debris to escape. Next, close the test cocks with a screwdriver (screw slots vertical). This will stop water spraying out of the backflow preventer. Turn the #1 and #2 shutoff valve handles to the fully open position. Tighten the bolts on the relief cover. You can keep the insulation on all winter (except for the insulation bag when running the system). Set your controller.

To properly winterize your backflow preventer you must have an isolation valve. For new irrigation systems the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Code states, “All new irrigation systems must include an isolation valve between the water meter and the backflow prevention device”, Rule 344.62.  If you have an older system and don’t have an isolation valve, leave the backflow device on, and properly insulate it for a freeze. Call us and we’ll install one for you so you can winterize your device in the future. We’d also be glad to help you with the winterizing.

Winterizing a Double Check Backflow Preventer

In central Texas most double check backflow preventers are installed underground, and are therefore insulated from freeze damage. For winterization of above ground double check devices, follow the RPZ steps (except for the relief cover — the double check backflow doesn’t have a relief valve).

Winterizing a PVB (Pressure Vacuum Backflow) Device

1. Shut off the isolation valve.

2. If you have a controller, set it to the “off” or “rain” mode position.

2. Locate the two test cocks used to test or drain the main cavity of the backflow device. Take a small flat-head screwdriver and turn the screw in the center of each test cock one quarter of a turn (45 degree angle) to open them. Water may shoot out with some pressure, and drip for a short time.

3. Turn the #1 and #2 shutoff handles to a 45 degree angle or the halfway off position. Keep them in this position until you’re ready to start your system again.

4. Insulate the device in foam pipe wrap, and use a heavy rubber tape to protect the insulation. Cover the device with an insulation bag.

5. To run your system again, remove the insulation bag and open the isolation valve (water will shoot out of the test cocks). Close the test cocks by turning the screw in the center to the closed (screw slot vertical) position. This will stop the water from spraying out of the backflow device. Turn the #1 and #2 shutoff handles to the full open position (handles in line with the flow of the pipe). You can keep the insulation on all winter (except for the insulation bag when running the system). Set your controller.

You should use your controller to help drain the system during the winterization process.  To do this, turn on the lowest elevation zone on the controller and let it run.  Then turn off the isolation valve and drain the unit.  When those steps are complete, turn the controller to the “off” position.

Would you like some help winterizing your system?  We are the experts in irrigation and sprinkler repair, restoration, and maintenance.  Call us today at (512) 534-7449.

10 Good Reasons to Hire a Pro

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Exciting News !!!

South Austin Irrigation will be installing sprinkler systems very soon!

Anyone who has decided to enhance the value of their home with a sprinkler system (or who is even thinking about it), may be tempted to do the installation themselves, thinking that there is a DIY cost saving. But here are some very good reasons to hire a pro.

Ten Good Reasons to Hire a Pro

1. Design. Design of an irrigation system is not just a simple matter of deciding where to put the sprinkler heads. You also have to know such factors as the available water flow and pressure and how to compensate for too much or too little. You have to know what types of nozzles to use (and there is a dizzying array from which to choose) and where to place them for maximum coverage. Professional installers are well versed in these and all other aspects of irrigation systems and will save you the cost and aggravation of an improperly designed system.

2. Components. An irrigation system is made up of many different parts. There are pipes, valves, electrical components, cables and connectors, filters, backflow prevention devices, controllers, couplers, emitters, and maybe a pump to name a few. A pro knows how to select, correctly place, and install the right components.

3. Trenching. This part of the process can be quite physically strenuous, particularly if done manually with a trenching spade. Or you could rent a trenching machine from your local rental equipment dealer (but it ought not to be used to dig on steep slopes, near buildings, or through flower beds or ground cover). How deep should the trenches be for the main lines? For the laterals? And what about all the unforeseen obstacles such as rocks or tree roots? (Not to mention water, cable, or telephone lines, the location of which has to be confirmed before any digging starts). How about having to trench under pavement? A pro has the equipment to easily handle whatever comes up.

4. Preparing and laying pipes. First, you have to select the right type and size of pipes. And chances are that you’re not going to be able to get pipe precut to the precise lengths you need, so you’re going to have to cut the pipes to length and then couple the pieces together. Preparing and installing the correctly selected pipe and fittings so that they are faultless and remain tight is key to preventing future leaks.

5. Valves. A valve is a device that controls the flow of water through the pipe by opening, closing, or partially obstructing the passageway. Each circuit in your irrigation system is regulated by a valve. Ah, but what kind of valve? A globe valve? An angle valve? An anti-siphon valve? Above ground? In line? Should you use a backflow preventer on each individual valve? A professional installer will select and correctly install your valves.

6. Wiring. What size and type wire to use depends on different factors such as the particular model of the valve you’re using and the distance between the valve and the controller. The placement of the wiring to the control valves is also important to prevent accidental damage. A professional installer is an expert in correct wiring.

7. Sprinkler head types. The list of different types of heads is daunting to many people. There are fixed nozzles, impact rotors, gear-driven rotors, large turf rotors, pop-up heads, bubblers, rotary heads, shrub nozzles, and many others in a variety of sizes, shapes, brands, and styles. They each have their own uses and applications. A pro installer knows which type to use for your landscape size and shape.

8. Sprinkler head placement. After determining what type of sprinkler heads will work best, the professional installer also knows how to properly space and place them to get maximum coverage and eliminate the waste of water that occurs with overspray and runoff or when factors such as soil type, steep slopes, or obstructions are not taken into account.

9. Filtration. Like any system that uses water, your sprinkler system needs a filtration system to remove any particles or contaminants from the water supply. Some filtration systems will notify a controller when these particles have built up on the screen to a pre-determined level. The controller sends a signal to rinse the screen and carry the particles to the drain. A pro installer knows just what kind of filtration system to install and the best strategic location for it.

10. Controllers. The controller is the “brains of the operation”. It programs the watering schedule – timing, frequency, and duration. And there are controllers that will do many, many more things. There are Wi-Fi controllers that will connect to your cellphone or tablet for remote operation. There are controllers that will regulate the system based on the local weather conditions. There are devices and controllers that will decide whether or not to activate the system based on the moisture content of the soil. They can monitor and record the flow rate. You can get controllers that will regulate different schedules for multiple zones. There are metal enclosures, plastic enclosures, stainless steel enclosures, wall mount, and pedestal type. The choices are almost endless. The professional installer will help you navigate the maze to select the controller that’s right for your new system.

A correctly designed, selected, installed, and maintained irrigation system will deliver exactly the right amount of water at exactly the right time at the lowest possible operating cost. Keep your landscape vibrant and lush and your costs down with a professionally installed system.

Call South Austin Irrigation today at (512) 534-7449. You can count on our knowledgeable and experienced personnel for all your sprinkler system needs.

How To Watch Cost Savings Trickle Away with Poor Irrigation Practices

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Nobody wants to be an expert at wasting water. First, water is a precious resource. Conserving water is environmentally-friendly and responsible. Also, wasting water can cost you hundreds or even thousands every year on your water bill, not to mention any fines you may have to pay for unintentionally violating Austin water regulations.

But, maybe you don’t know where these losses are coming from. Here are some of the main culprits that waste water and eat away at your finances.

Your Irrigation System

Overwatering is the biggest detriment to both the health of your lawn and your wallet. There are a number of factors that add to overwatering. The first is your irrigation system.

Sprinkler heads should be adjusted to cover your zones evenly while taking into account the drainage of your landscape. If there are low spots, this can cause water to pool in these areas, thus saturating the ground with more water than it can absorb. Alternately, higher ground will lead to runoff, in which case you will need shorter, more frequent watering sessions.

If your system is on a timer, it is harder to adjust watering according to the needs of different zones. Plus, the system will continue to water even if it rains unless you adjust it manually.

Smart irrigation systems address this problem by adjusting the watering schedule to the local temperature and rainfall. You can also prevent overwatering by installing rain or soil moisture sensors, which will override the automatic schedule.

Sprinkler Drift

Old or cheap sprinklers are likely to shift over time, resulting in uneven watering or “watering the pavement”. Even better-quality sprinklers will eventually settle and shift, so it is important to observe and adjust accordingly.

Breaks and Leaks

Sprinkler heads can break, crack, and leak, either because of damage or normal wear. The telltale signs of leaks are pooling water, erosion, runoff, or puddles. Check sprinkler heads, stems, and wiper seals around the stem if you notice any of these signs, and replace parts as needed.

Plants and Landscaping

It is easy to make the mistake of overwatering if you don’t know how much water your specific plants require and how much your soil can absorb. Trees have deep roots and are able to store water, so they need more. Ground cover and shrubs require less deep watering, but more frequently.

Sandy soil has a very low moisture retention and needs more water, while soil with a high clay content takes in water more slowly, retains moisture longer, and erodes more easily.

One advantage of upgrading to a smart irrigation system is you can program the plant and soil types into the controller so that watering is adjusted accordingly.

Time of Day

Morning is the best time to water. Local Austin water regulations also require only watering on certain days during specific hours to avoid fines.

You will accumulate a lot of water waste by watering during the heat of day, as most of the water will evaporate before it can be absorbed. Watering at night, when nature’s moisture settles on the ground, can lead to the growth of undesirable fungus on plants and roots.

Contact South Austin Irrigation for any irrigation repairs you may need. Call us at (512) 534-7449

Making Plastic to Metal Pipe Connections

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Sprinkler pipe connections
How sprinkler pipes are connected can make a world of difference. Call the pros at South Austin Irrigation Repair for expert work.

If you are thinking about making a few changes to your irrigation system that involve connecting plastic pipes to metal ones, you’ll need to be aware of some of the issues to which such connections will give rise. Plastic and metal piping can be combined; but you have to be careful how you go about doing so.

You will make your plastic to metal linkage with threaded connections. Use a plastic male thread to connect to the metal female threads. If you do the opposite—use a plastic female threaded connector with a metal male connector—the new joint you create will either leak or break. This is because polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics stretch far more easily than metals do. A female PVC fitting joined together with with a male metal fitting will tax the female fitting to the point where it will crack and leak.

It’s also important to know that the standard threads used on pipes and fittings are not uniform in diameter. The reason for this is that as the threads are screwed together, the male fitting gets compressed while female fitting stretches. This results in a very tight joint that won’t leak.

When creating plastic to metal threaded joints, you’ll need to use a sealer/lubricant. Doing so will help lubricate fittings making it easier to screw the mail and into the female: it will also help seal the joint and guard against leaks. Three products you can use for this purpose are Teflon pipe dope, Teflon tape or PTFE tape. If you are working on pipes associated with a sprinkler system, Teflon or PTFE tape are the two best choices because your pipes could carry pipe dope residue into the sprinklers and clog them up.

Irrigation systems need specialized care and attention because the wrong choices could cost you time and money. Whether you’re in need of installation or repair/replacement services, the dedicated professionals at South Austin Irrigation can help you maintain your irrigation unit in top condition so that watering can be one less thing you’ll have to think about.

Call South Austin Irrigation at (512) 534-7449 for service today.

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Our sprinkler repair service areas include:

  • Austin, TX
  • Lakeway, TX
  • Spicewood, TX
  • Horseshoe Bay, TX
  • Dripping Springs, TX
  • Wimberly, TX

Give us a call for sprinkler repair and service in your area: (512) 534-7449

We Service Many Irrigation Brands:

  • Toro
  • Nelson Turf
  • KRain
  • HydroRain
  • Berkeley
  • Irritrol
  • Rain Bird
  • Rachio
  • Hunter

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