Many homeowners may not know that it is a requirement to have rain sensors in Florida. These sensors are helping to control the irrigation systems on residential properties and commercial properties alike. But why are they so important?
Florida is known for its wet season. It can be sunny one minute and then raining cats and dogs the next. A rain sensor can tell when there has been enough water in the weather. It essentially talks to your irrigation system so that your sprinklers don’t turn on. After all, when a hurricane waters your lawn well enough you don’t want to have the sprinklers on.
By the way, a rain sensor is an attachment for an irrigation system. Luckily, American Irrigation Systems can help you get set up with both. We are ready to get your sprinkler system up and running. Contact us today.
Rain Sensors in Florida Law
Rain sensors in Florida have several important uses that make them necessary to irrigation systems. The purpose of an automatic shut-off device, like a rain sensor, is to control water flow to your sprinkler system. If rain is already watering the lawn, you obviously don’t need to. To be sure, your rain sensor turns off your sprinklers for a period of time so that you don’t need to do it yourself.
Likewise, Florida Law acknowledges the need for water conservation. In an effort to be environmentally friendly, the law requires all new irrigation systems to have a rain sensor. This is to save water from being used in excess. Experts from the Hillsborough County Extension say, “When rain sensors are working correctly, they save lots of water – more than 2,500 gallons per 1,000 square feet annually.”
Similarly, these sensors can also save you money in the long run. When engaged, the sensor shuts off the irrigation system. A functioning rain sensor could save you money on your utility bills, especially if you have a decent wet season.
Installing Rain Sensors
There are several different kinds of rain sensors. Some sensors measure water by weight by collecting rain water in a measuring cup. This system engages after a certain weight has been reached. There are devices that measure the electrical conductivity of water, which should be calibrated by an expert technician. Expanding disk sensors use disks that absorb water to engage the system. This sensor is very popular because of its low maintenance and reliability.
With this in mind, technicians who install your irrigation system will be able to inform you what choice is best for you. If you don’t have a rain sensor attached to you system already you may be able to add it. After all, a rain sensor device attaches to your existing irrigation system controller in an area where it can collect rain water. Wiring and connecting can be done by your irrigation specialist. Not all systems are compatible, so it is best to call an expert.
However, rain sensors in Florida are required to be checked or receive maintenance at least once a year. As a rule, if you notice your system turn on after a period of heavy rain or during a storm, you should have a service check completed.
Have an irrigation system but it needs to be updated or checked? Contact American Irrigation Systems today. We’ll see you soon!