Water is one of the more valuable resources in Australia, especially during Perth’s long and hot summers. Maintaining healthy lawns and gardens without wasting water can be a challenge. That’s where a smart irrigation system can resolve this common issue. Designed to eliminate the guesswork of watering, these systems use technology to precisely apply the right amount of water to your plants, saving you time, money, and water.
What is a Smart Irrigation System?
A smart irrigation system is an advanced form of watering system that surpasses the basic timer commonly used in many retic systems. Instead of following pre-programmed watering times, innovative systems adjust watering schedules automatically based on local weather data, soil moisture content, and the specific needs of your plants.
Unlike traditional irrigation methods, which often apply water regardless of the conditions, smart irrigation systems are designed to minimise water waste and improve plant health. They use a combination of smart irrigation controllers, soil moisture sensors, and rain sensors to enhance watering efficiency.
How Smart Irrigation Works
The primary feature of smart irrigation is its ability to adjust irrigation schedules based on real-time data automatically. Here’s how it works:
Soil Moisture Sensors
These measure the soil moisture content at the root zone to determine whether your garden actually needs water.
Local Weather Data
The system pulls in local weather information, such as temperature, rainfall, wind, humidity, and even solar radiation, to determine when and how much water to apply.
Evapotranspiration (ET) Data
Some systems calculate continuous ET measurements, which estimate the amount of water lost through evaporation from the soil surface and transpiration from plant materials.
Smart Controllers
Using a wireless connection, these devices automatically adjust irrigation run times and allow you to set or change your watering schedule remotely via an app or web portal.
The result is a system that doesn’t just water on a timer but adapts to changing conditions, whether it’s an unexpected summer downpour or a week of hot, dry winds.
Benefits of Smart Irrigation for Water Efficiency
Other than water efficiency being one of the biggest advantages of a smart water irrigation system. Here are some of the main benefits:
Reduced Water Waste
By applying water only when needed, smart systems prevent overwatering and reduce runoff and wastewater.
Outdoor Water Savings
Studies show smart irrigation technology can reduce outdoor water use by up to 20–40%, depending on conditions and system setup.
Healthier Plants
By maintaining the right soil moisture levels, plants receive just the right amount of water. This reduces stress on lawns and improves long-term plant health.
Lower Water Bills
By reducing unnecessary watering, a smart system can significantly cut your water bill, especially in Perth where summer watering can account for a large portion of household water usage.
Convenience
With remote access through your smartphone, you can monitor and change your irrigation schedules while at work or away on holiday.
Is a Smart System Worth the Investment?
The upfront cost of installing a smart irrigation system is higher than sticking with a standard irrigation controller. However, the long-term benefits usually outweigh the initial expense.
Potential Savings
Reduced water usage translates into lower bills, which can offset the cost of installation within a few years.
Plant Health
A healthier lawn or garden requires fewer replacements of turf or plant materials, saving you money in the long run.
Sustainability
With water restrictions becoming more common across different regions of Australia, reducing outdoor water use and becoming more energy-efficient is more of a priority for homeowners.
For homeowners who want control and efficiency, or councils and businesses managing large areas of turf and gardens, a smart system can be a very worthwhile investment.
Comparing Smart Irrigation Systems
There are two main variants of smart irrigation systems that people use. These are:
Weather-Based Controllers
These use meteorological data from the Bureau of Meteorology, including historic ET controllers and current weather-based ET data, to schedule watering. They’re highly effective in regions with predictable climate patterns.
Soil Moisture-Based Controllers
These rely on signal-based controllers connected to soil moisture sensors placed in your garden. They water only when the root zone reaches a certain dryness level.
When comparing these systems, you should consider:
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Do you need wireless connection and app-based control?
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How accurate is the weather data in your location?
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What level of control do you want over irrigation run time adjustments?
The best choice depends on multiple factors rather than just one. This can include your garden size, plant types, and budget.
Who Should Consider Installing a Smart Irrigation System?
A smart controller isn’t for everyone, but certain situations make it especially valuable:
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Homeowners with Large Gardens: If you’ve got a big lawn or veggie garden beds, a smart system ensures your plants get water efficiently.
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Property Managers: For schools, sports fields, and businesses with large areas of grass surface, smart irrigation helps keep landscapes green without wasting water.
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Garden Enthusiasts: If you’re particular about your plant health and want watering that matches the specific needs of different plants, you’ll love the accuracy of smart systems.
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Those Looking to Save Money: If your water bill is high due to heavy outdoor use, installing smart irrigation is a simple way to save money in the long term.
In Perth, where summers are hot and dry, the case for smart irrigation systems is even stronger. By ensuring that water reaches your garden in the right amount and at the right time, you’ll see healthier plants, a greener lawn, and a noticeable reduction in water waste.
Pair Your Garden with the Perfect Patio
While a smart irrigation system can help keep your garden thriving, the right Great Aussie Patio will make it even more enjoyable.
Explore our patio designs and get in touch with us today for a free quote!