Web based smart controllers - irrigation
By Steve Economou
Benefits to HOAs
“ The city will not raise water rates even though the city ’ s wholesale water costs will increase 9.6 % at the beginning of 2013 ,” announced Mayor Jerry Saunders on October 10th , 2012 . That is the temporary good news for city residents . For all of San Diego County water users , though , rates are going up . It is inevitable .
Solutions from the water suppliers include enforced conservation , smart water meters , watering restrictions , alternate sources of water like gray-water , and other more drastic ideas . A better way is to look to our own properties and learn to find savings from within . We don ’ t want to wait for imposed restrictions since some currently available solutions are painless and provide a better quality of service to HOAs as side benefits .
Increasingly , HOAs are turning to web-based irrigation controllers , also called timers , as a streamlined way to save significant amounts of water and money . Web-based controllers give
• precision information
• flexible scheduling
• extensive alerts
that get delivered to and from centralized systems and can even deliver information to smart phones for remote operation . A professional landscape maintenance company should be expected to understand , control and manage this technology .
Capabilities
Web Based Smart Controllers are remote , wireless irrigation products that use the power of the Internet and mobile devices . Most systems consist of the following :
• Wireless Network Units - handheld devices for field work
• Valve Controllers - one for each valve
• Pump Control - a relay-switch for electric pumps
• Sensors - for flow and water level information
• Software - on the Internet , plus there may be apps to install on mobile devices
• Support - professional support to install and maintain your system
How it works
Most smart irrigation solutions employ a weather and evapotranspiration formula to apply water . You define information such as plant type , soil , sprinkler head precipitation rates and sun exposure and then the system software automatically recommends the best watering schedule for your landscape . The success of the system and the amount of water saved is closely - perhaps more importantly - tied to how well your landscape company inputs , updates and manages this information .
Central Management Using Web or Cloud Based Technology
A smart irrigation system will manage your site without requiring a dedicated computer . You will be able to alter irrigation schedules , control and change water zones , and program irrigation stops and starts . You will also be able to track water consumption through detailed statistical reports and charts . Being able to export this information to spreadsheets then allows further capabilities .
Remote Access from smart phones
You can also access and manage your irrigation from a smart phone . Vendors provide free apps for most popular brands , like iPhone , Blackberry , and Android .
Changing conditions
As weather cycles through seasonal rain patterns and multiyear periods of wet and dry , your system will continue to give you feedback about the effect on your water usage . Having this information allows you to fine-tune the management of your HOA water use . If you re-landscape an area , you will update the conditions in the software and the program will change watering times , etc . timers
Weather data sources
Smart irrigation depends on having accurate weather sources in order to function properly . Most vendors partner with organizations such as NOAA and Weather Underground to gain access to forecasting as well as the extensive network of weather stations . This data is part of the calculations used to create watering schedules , then to close the loop by using feedback on actual events .
Automatic Failure Alerts and Notification
The systems can automatically detect faults in pipes , valves , solenoids , and sprinkler heads . A smart controller should notify the user of detected malfunctions via email and text messages . The best smart irrigation solutions may even automatically detect and manage events by shutting off zones in case of a broken sprinkler head .
Evaluation Points
Ease of Use
Every company develops what they think is an easy-to-use system . Explore this yourself . Any new system will take some education , so take your time . What you are looking for is telltale signs that this software was developed without an “ end-user ” perspective . Look for places where there seem to be too many buttons pushed , or too many steps to make changes to the alerts and controls .
Ease of Maintenance
There are three areas to consider : how much time does system maintenance require , who can do it and will the vendor do it ? Upon installation , there will be an intense period of adjustment and a learning curve . Be prepared for it . Ask about what level of expertise is required to maintain the system and ensure that someone within your vendor ’ s organization is well-trained .
Remote Access
Create a typical scenario and find out if the manufacturer can accommodate the chain of command you require for notification of key personnel . Note the complexity and the reliability . Ensure the system uses existing communication infrastructures such as the Internet and the smart phones that key personnel are using .
Pricing Plans
There are two major pricing philosophies : upfront capital outlay or monthly ongoing fee services . The financial structure of your HOA may mean that a capital outlay would make conversion to these systems difficult . In that case , check with your potential vendors for either a leasing plan , which can be an operating expense or a monthly service fee . Service plans may include monthly charges plus some annual fees so ask careful questions to ensure you capture all the relevant costs .
Total Cost of Ownership
Total cost of ownership is a financial estimate to help you determine direct and indirect costs . This may include analyzing long-term plans and ensuring that you will keep your existing landscaping as well as irrigation system in place . If you are planning major changes , make sure you will still be able to gain savings from your web based smart controller system without major equipment changes . Look for any local tax credits or rebate programs
Web Based Smart Controllers are Worth Considering
If your HOA is looking for ways to save water , being responsive to homeowner needs , and using technology to streamline operations , then Web Based Smart Controllers are an important tool . Research is key , so spend the time to fully understand your environment , how several products will suit your needs , and how the company you buy from will support you . If this seems overwhelming , feel free to contact me and I will be glad to help your Association understand this technology . You will then be well on your way to an updated system . HOA
Steve Economou , is the CEO of Rainscape Environmental Management founded in 1982 , Steve ’ s vision has led the company through nearly three decades of continuous growth . Steve has been a prominent influence in defining the landscape management industry and establishing its professional and ethical standards . He is a sought-after mentor in the California Landscape Contractors Association and has given generously to industry partners in an effort to promote a sense of satisfaction and achievement amongst aspiring business people .
Recently , Steve developed multiple philanthropic efforts and is working to pass forward knowledge and leadership skills . He has been married to his childhood girlfriend Diane for the last 23 years , after courting from the ages of fifteen and thirteen respectfully . They share the pride of their three children Dana , Christian and Amanda .
RainScape Environmental Management 8322 Clairemont Mesa Blvd . # 112 San Diego , CA 92111 ( 858 ) 650-3398
10 | The HOA Board Quarterly | Issue # 4 | Fall 2012 Fall 2012 | Issue # 4 | The HOA Board Quarterly | 11