Unless you live in a city that requires rain sensors, or your newer irrigation or sprinkler system came with one, you may not know what a rain sensor does. Simply put, rain sensors are devices that prevent the absurdity of automatically watering a lawn or garden when it is raining or right after it has rained. When installed properly, a small sensor on the device senses the rain and acts as a breaker, shutting off the system until the sensor is dry again. This does not affect the timing system because it is simply shutting off the water, not changing the preset time.

The benefits of having a rain sensor go beyond just looking smart when your neighbor's sprinkler is spraying water on rain-drenched grass. If you want to purchase rain sensors, list the benefits that you can gain by having one:

1. Save money by reducing water bills and wear and tear on irrigation systems

2. Prevent lawns and gardens from over-watering

3. Protect the environment by reducing water consumption and lowering demand on municipal water supplies

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy the right rain sensors for your needs

There are wired and wireless rain sensors. The wireless models are more expensive, but easier to install. Some models also include freeze sensors, so you will not be watering when there is frost on the ground.

I recommend: You can find rain sensors at any place that sells irrigation supplies or search for a rain sensors provider online. Some models worth checking out are the Mini-Clik, the simpler model, and the Rain-Clik, which features a faster response time than other models. R&D Engineering carries a whole line of wireless rain/freeze sensors.

Install your new rain sensors

Anybody can install a rain sensor, and it does not require a permit. Make sure to install it in an open area where nothing will stop the rain from reaching the sensor. It must be out of the range of the sprinkler or it will shut off erroneously.

I recommend: Landscape Design/Build has a step by step installation guide geared specifically towards wireless models, but the advice can apply to wired models as well. After installation, you must set the rain sensor. Standard settings for a rain sensor range from 1/8" to 3/4". In most localities with dry soil and low rainfall, the proper setting is 1/4". Mickman Brothers has detailed rain sensors information based on climate.

Troubleshoot problems with your rain sensors

It's a good idea to pay attention during the next rainfall to make sure that your newly installed rain sensor does shut off the irrigation system when it rains and turns the system back on when it is dry weather again.

I recommend: The City of Tampa website has a simple procedure for testing a rain sensor. If the sensor works when you test it, but not in actual rain, most likely the placement or setting is wrong. More troubleshooting tips are available at the University of Florida Water Conservation Resource Directory.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Rain sensors are great simple tools, but they are best suited for short term use. During times of heavy rainfall, it is still necessary to shut your irrigation off for maximum benefit.
• •  Some municipalities offer rebates of up to $50 for the purchase of a rain sensor, so check with your water company to see if such a program exists in your area.