3 ms·
I've looked into automatic sprinkler systems with scheduling based on the weather or moisture sensors, but they to have too many failure modes: moisture sensors
by dkarp 6y ago
I've looked into automatic sprinkler systems with scheduling based on the weather or moisture sensors, but they to have too many failure modes: moisture sensors corroding, incorrect weather readings, blocked outlets.
I'm now planning to use a simple drip irrigation system. A long hose with nozzles plugged into the mains water that has to be manually turned on. It may not be automatic, but turning things on and off when I need them isn't the problem, like using light switches isn't the problem. There aren't any coyotes around here and the winters are mostly frost free, so I'm hoping this doesn't become a burden like the tech you mention!
- WalterBright 6y agoYou're right, a drip irrigation system is much better. You wouldn't have to run regions, either, just one system. But watch out for squirrels and other fur-bearin varmints chewing on the pipes. I'd consider copper pipes. I was thinking about digging up my whole sprinkler system and replacing it all with copper pipes, but then just opted to abandon the whole thing.
- deleted 6y ago[deleted]
- lostlogin 6y agoI couldn’t understand how smart watering systems were so expensive. I bought a TP-Link smart plug and a solenoid that defaults to off. It took 48v so I got a transformer, plugged it into the smart plug and wired up the solenoid. Once this was done it was just a matter of making it smart. I set it to water for 10 minutes after sunset in Home Assistant. I’ve always intended it too hold off if it rains, but our weather forecasting is too inaccurate for that so have been messing about with soil moisture sensors, but haven’t had success yet.