Smart Wi-Fi sprinkler controllers explained
A smart controller replaces the timer on your garage wall with one you run from your phone. Weather-aware models skip or shorten watering after rain and adjust through the season, so you stop watering a lawn that doesn't need it.
What you actually get
- Start, stop and schedule any zone from your phone
- Automatic rain and freeze skips from local weather data
- Seasonal adjustment without reprogramming
- Easy compliance with municipal odd/even watering days
- Run a zone remotely while testing or during service
Will it work with my system?
Most residential valves use standard 24 VAC solenoids, so a smart controller can usually replace the old timer using the existing field wires. You need a reliable Wi-Fi signal at the controller location.
Rain sensors vs weather data
A physical rain sensor shuts watering off after measured rainfall. Weather-based scheduling adjusts in advance. Many homes use both.
Common questions
- What does a smart controller cost installed?
- Our Wi-Fi smart controller is $249 plus HST, installed and programmed.
- Do I need to replace my valves?
- Usually not — standard 24 VAC valves work with smart controllers.
- Which brand do you install?
- As an authorized Orbit installer we install Orbit B-hyve smart controllers.
Related services
More guides
- How to winterize and blow out a sprinkler system in Ontario
- Drip irrigation for garden beds and planters
- How an irrigation system is installed, step by step
- DIY sprinkler system vs professional installation
- Sprinkler system troubleshooting: common problems and fixes
- Sprinkler zone won't turn off: causes and fixes
- Low sprinkler pressure: why heads spray weakly
- Valve box full of water: what it means
- Lawn sprinkler systems: a homeowner's guide
- Lawn watering restrictions in the GTA
- Rain Bird sprinkler system repair
- Hunter sprinkler system repair
- Orbit sprinkler system repair
- Toro sprinkler system repair
- Weathermatic sprinkler system repair
- K-Rain sprinkler system repair
- When to winterize your sprinkler system in the GTA
- When to turn your sprinklers on in spring in Ontario
- Sprinkler system cost in Toronto and the GTA
- What sprinkler winterization costs in the GTA