Efficient IrrigationFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does it work?
1. Using a highly accurate soil sensor buried in the roots of the turf or landscape, a digital measurement of moisture is displayed in real time.2. Because this system can determine the soils field capacity (see FAQ "what is field capacity") it safely sets the threshold of watering below the point where water is wasted and above the permanent wilt point. The field capacity is important because without it there would be no way to know when you are over watering.
3. Retrofits to any irrigation system and runs automatically. There is no adjusting for change of seasons. As temperature drops, evaporation decreases and with more water in the soil to feed the roots, the sprinkler system will adjust to run less often.
What is Field Capacity?
All soils hold moisture differently. Sands hold around 10-15%. Clays around 30-45%. Think of a sponge that you put in water. When you pull it out it drips to a point and then holds the remaining water. At that point, it's the elements (sun, wind, humidity) that dry it out. It's the same with soils.
This is the only system on the market that determines field capacity. Any water that is applied above the identified field capacity is wasted as it percolates below the subsurface.
What is the difference between this system and other sensor based controllers?
1. The accuracy of the sensor
2. Eight independent published studies
3. The only system currently that determines field capacity. This is necessary to keep from over watering.
4. Accurately displays soil temperature and soil conductivity (saline content)
5. Will not require adjusting when seasons change
6. Optional multi sensor technology to handle varying soil chemistry and microclimates
7. Optional zone overrides. Use when a zone needs watering using the timer. Other zones will remain on sensor technology.
8. Accurate consideration for plant and grass transpiration
9. Easy install
Can I install myself?
For a residential install, Yes. If you are a do it yourselfer, the instructions in the manual are straightforward. You can also use our toll free support (877-405-2003) if you need help. Plan about 2 hours.
You can also contact your local licensed irrigator or we can help you find someone.
1. You will need to bury the sensor in a representative place. Wire to the nearest valve. Three simple connections.
2. You will need to mount the SCX upgrade controller next to the timer. Five simple connections.
Does it retrofit and is it compatible with all controllers?
Yes. The SCX model is an upgrade and wires to an existing controller regardless of the number of zones. This model has a limit of one sensor per controller.
You can replace your current controller (timer) with one of our SC series models and have greater flexibility and automation. The SC series allows you to install a sensor for each valve.
Is one sensor for one property work effectively?
Yes. Once we determine you have uniform soil chemistry (Field Capacity), you will need to determine that you are watering uniformly. The water flow for each zone is adjusted according to the microclimates and the type of sprinkler heads used.
However, you can add multiple sensors if you install one of our SC series controllers. This increases the overall efficiency of watering. Each zone can have its own sensor or read off another "master sensor" based on similar microclimates.
Is there research?
Yes. Eight independent published studies have been completed. These range from the accuracy of the sensor (+/- 1%) to the water savings. University of Florida results showed savings between 46-87% over a traditional timer. See "endorsements" on this web site (efficientirrigation.com) for more information.
What is the average water savings?
Our independent studies indicate ranges between 46-87%. This will depend how well you are currently managing your clock and also on the rainfall in your area.
Can I place multiple sensors on my property?
Yes. You will need to replace your current timer with one of our SC series controllers in order to do so.
How is this different from a rain sensor?
Rain sensors will stop the water when it rains. It has a manual rain delay that is subject to human guess. It does not know when to let the irrigation system begin watering again.
The in ground sensor will determine the exact time that watering begins after a rainfall. It may be one day or 3 weeks. This depends on how well the soil is holding the water and the elements (sun, wind, humidity) that are drying it out. (See FAQ "What is field capacity").
Can I get a volume discount?
If you are a contractor and would like to sell to your customers, please call direct at 877-405-2003.