Purchase and install a weather smart controller for a $75 to $125 rebate, or more for large sites.

what are weather-based irrigation controllers?
They are irrigation clocks that use current weather information to automatically apply the appropriate amount of water.  They can be installed new or replace an existing controller.  They generally save 20% of the irrigation water.

why should i get a weather-based controller?
Because they can save you:

• Time from having to adjust your irrigation clock.
• Money from using less water.
• Water from not over watering.

what is the rebate amount?
The District is offering a $75 to $125 rebate for the purchase and installation of a weather-based irrigation controller.  The $75 rebate is for controllers that are sensor based and do not have an associated signal fee (see next question for signal fee).  The $125 rebate is for controllers with an associated signal fee.  Larger areas (HOAs, parks, etc.) may qualify for a $600/irrigated-acre rebate.

how do weather-based controllers work?

There are two types of controllers:

1.Signal-based - rely on daily weather updates received from satellite signals or require an internet connection to receive the information ($125 rebate).

2. Sensor-based - use on-site weather or solar sensors to create irrigation schedules ($75 rebate).

are they right for all landscapes?
Consider your landscape size and type, and your current watering practices.  Weather-based irrigation controllers are most cost-effective for a medium-size or larger landscape, however they will work for any landscape.  They also work well for vacation homes or homeowners who do not want to continually adjust their irrigation controllers.

do they really save water?
Weather-based irrigation controllers are proven to reduce landscape water use on average by 20% in well-maintained irrigation systems.  However, weather-based irrigation controllers cannot correct things like overspray, irrigation system leaks, or poor design. To really benefit from a weather-based controller, you should have a properly designed and maintained irrigation system, or be willing to make repairs and changes to your system if it is not working well.

how much do they cost?
Prices vary according to the type and level of sophistication, and the signal-based controllers have an ongoing signal fee.   Prices start around $175 for the simplest type.  They are more expensive than the typical controllers used today. However, with the District rebate and water savings, the controller can pay for itself over time. 

which weather-based controller should i choose?
There are several types on the market today- see Table 1 below for a few manufacturers.   Generally, the larger the landscape the more sophisticated the controller you will need.  A landscape professional may be able to help.  Feel free to contact Roy Sikes, the District’s Water Conservation Specialist, at 831 475-8500 Ext. 146 for information.

where can i purchase a controller?
Your best bet is to contact the manufacturer.  Table 1 below provides the website information for a few of the WBIC manufacturers.

who can install these controllers?
Although most landscape companies should be capable of installing a weather-based irrigation controller, four local landscape companies that have experience with weather-based controllers are shown in Table 2.

Table 1.  Partial List of Weather-based Irrigation Controller Manufacturer links

Aquaconserve   www.aquaconserve.com   

ET Water Systems  www.etwater.com  

HydroPoint (WeatherTrak) www.hydropoint.com  

Irrisoft  www.weatherreach.com    

Rainbird  www.rainbird.com    

Rainmaster www.rainmaster.com  

Water2Save www.water2save.com

Hunter ET system www.hunterindustries.com 

Please note:  Soquel Creek Water District does not endorse or recommend specific manufacturers, nor does it guarantee materials or workmanship; acceptance of such is the customer’s responsibility.  If a WBIC manufacturer would like its name added to the list, please call Ron Duncan at 831 475-8500 Ext. 144.  

Table 2 – Partial List of Local Contractors with Experience Installing WBICs.

Please note:  Soquel Creek Water District does not endorse or recommend specific landscape companies, nor does it guarantee materials or workmanship; acceptance of such is the customer’s responsibility. If any landscape company has weather-based irrigation controller experience and would like its name added to the list, please call Ron Duncan at 831 475-8501 Ext. 144.