Rachio targets landscape contractors with new sprinkler controller

Among other features, the new PRO model enables landscapers to customize individual zones according to their vegetation, soil, sun exposure, slope and nozzle heads.
Photo: Rachio

Rachio, a maker of sprinkler controllers that use cloud-based software and can be managed via the user’s mobile device, has just launched its “PRO” model for landscapers.

In addition to all the capabilities of Rachio’s Gen 2 model, the new product comes with an extended 4-year warranty and “enhanced pro features” in the mobile application, the company says.

The PRO controller is available in a 16-zone model and Rachio says its upgraded software makes professionals more efficient through shared access as well as weather intelligence.

Rachio taps into the user’s Wi-Fi network to analyze recent and upcoming weather, then automatically optimizes a watering schedule to the specific needs of the site. Based on the Gen 2 consumer model, the PRO model includes LED lights to provide status alerts and manual controls on the box, as well as an optional custom waterproof enclosure that allows hardwiring.

“Following the successful recent launch of our Gen 2 model, we wanted to provide the landscape professional community a version of the unit unique to their specific needs,” said Chris Klein, CEO of Rachio. “The PRO model continues Rachio’s long-standing relationship with professionals who mirror our goal of reducing water consumption while providing homeowners the knowledge and tools necessary to create their perfect yard.”

Since its launch in 2012, Rachio says, the company has worked closely with landscape professionals. The new model gives landscapers the ability to optimize each customer’s entire irrigation process and maximize their clients’ water savings.

The software is updated in real time and has features that allow both the professional and the homeowner to control every aspect of their landscape via a smartphone, tablet or laptop through the app.

The company also recently launched an enhanced online pro training and support website at pro.rachio.com.

Features in the latest Rachio 2.5 app update include:

• Streamlined ability to create, edit and review watering schedules, allowing landscape professionals to view their clients’ watering schedule on a monthly basis to understand when and how long watering will occur.

• Launch of “Climate Skip,” a feature that skips water times based on recent, past and future weather conditions, and “Seasonal Shift,” which adjusts watering durations each month based on local and seasonal variations to make sure a yard is getting the right amount of water.

• The ability to schedule start and end dates for individual schedules. This feature can be used to set up schedules for specific needs such as new grass seed.

To learn more about the PRO model, visit Rachio’s website here.