Residential and commercial irrigation sites can vary greatly in both size and complexity.
Most contractors have to learn to install and program two or more different irrigation controllers to meet the needs of their diverse customer base. Others keep things simple by specializing in either residential or commercial systems—but end up limiting their growth and new job prospects in the process.
Because it can expand from 4 to 22 stations, the ESP-Me Controller can be used to control both residential and light commercial irrigation systems.The ESP-Me controller builds upon all of the features of its predecessor, the ESP Modular. However, while the ESP Modular was limited to 13 stations, the ESP-Me offers up to 22 stations. Simply install the optional 3-station or 6-station modules and expand the ESP-Me from its standard four stations all the way up to 22 stations.
“Because of its expandability, the ESP-Me can be used to control both residential and light commercial irrigation systems,” said C. Todd Green, product manager for Rain Bird controllers. “This controller’s versatility allows contractors to serve a broader range of customers and gives them confidence that any crew member can program the controller.”
The Delay Watering feature allows users to easily postpone irrigation for up to 14 days and then automatically return to their normal watering schedule. Some landscaped areas aren’t easily reached by rainfall—like those shadowed by a deck or an overhanging eave. ESP-Me users can simply choose to bypass the rain sensor for those stations.
The Seasonal Adjust by Program feature allows users to reduce watering to as little as 5 percent of the scheduled program times in cooler, wetter conditions or increase it by up to 200 percent during warmer, drier weather.
The Total Run Time Calculator automatically tallies up the total amount of time a system is scheduled to run for any given program. In the rare occasion that the ESP-Me experiences electrical or programming issues, a bright red LED will either stay illuminated or flash, depending on the condition. Scrolling messages across the display alert users to a problem.
“Contractors are faced with many tough challenges every day,” Green said. “We designed the ESP-ME to gives them a controller option that doesn’t limit their job prospects and is easy enough for any crew member to program. By combining practical features with a versatile station count, the ESP-Me helps contractors keep things simple while serving a larger customer base.”
For more information about Rain Bird’s ESP-Me modular controller or to view the new ESP-Me video, visit ESPMeNews.rainbird.com or call 1-800-RAIN BIRD.
