Lawn sprinkler installation does not typically include the cost of a rain sensor. You can choose to add one, of course, but doing so will increase your investment.
Is a rain sensor worth the extra expense? That’s for you to decide, as it’s your automatic watering system. But in our minds, adding one is a smart move to make – even if your lawn sprinkler system has soil sensors. Here’s why.
How a Rain Sensor Works
Have you ever seen someone’s sprinklers running on a rainy day? If you install a rain sensor, you won’t have to worry about that happening with your automatic watering system.
The sensor transmitter is installed outside, typically on a roof or fence, light pole or other permanent landscape fixture. Once it detects a certain amount of rain, it sends a signal to the receiver, which is wired to the timer controller. This action automatically turns off the lawn sprinkler system.
How a Rain Sensor Saves You Money
With a quality rain sensor, your lawn sprinkler installation will cost more. But, the component usually costs under $200 – and it can pay for itself quickly, with a return on investment as short as a year.
How so? Since the sensor tells the automatic watering system to skip scheduled cycles when it’s raining, you’ll see savings on your monthly water bill. As the costs of water are continually rising, it won’t take very long for you to reach the payback point.
Do You Need a Rain Sensor if You Have Soil Moisture Sensors?
Sometimes, lawn sprinkler installations have soil moisture sensors. These components detect the level of moisture present and automatically stop the sprinklers from running when watering isn’t necessary. By doing so, the sensors help you save money on water.
That said, soil moisture sensors don’t react all that quickly to rain unless placed in coarse, sandy soil. If yours is mainly clay or loam soil, you might see your sprinklers on when it’s raining – at least for a little while. So, you may end up wasting water instead of saving money.
For many homeowners, installing both rain and soil sensors makes sense. Go that route, and your automatic watering system will only run when your lawn and garden plants really need a drink. You’ll avoid potential issues of overwatering, and save more on your water bill.
Are you interested in lawn sprinkler installation? For expert workmanship and high-quality products at an affordable price, turn to the experienced professionals at Pristine Lawns.
Based in Sandy, Utah, and serving the greater Salt Lake City area, Pristine Lawns customizes every sprinkler installation to provide efficient, effective watering. We can explain your options, answer your questions, and design an automatic watering system that meets your needs and your budget.
For more information about Pristine Lawns, or to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss rain sensors and lawn sprinkler installation, contact us today.