The sprinkler system requires initial programming and tuning and adjustments throughout different seasons. In addition, there is also a need for a periodic check for the leak and correct direction of the sprinkler heads as they may move due to lawn mowing.
For the current system, one needs to turn on a particular sprinkler station and walk/run to that area to check for the level, leak and directions, and then walk back to the central sprinkler controller to turn off that particular station and repeat for the next sprinkler station. Some sprinkler systems have an auto test feature where each sprinkler zone is turned on for a fixed time (e.g. 5 minutes) for the check. However, if you find a problem, you have to reset the controller after you deal with a problem as it may require more than the preset time to fix the issue.
Having a wireless remote control with Bluetooth technology, for example, would resolve these inconveniences and be able to deal with a problem in each sprinkler zone with a variable time, without having to walk back and forth from the lawn to the central controller.
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Bluetooth is too short ranged and complex for such a simple job.
Use plain UHF remote technology, perhaps bi-directional with a feedback display.
A trasceiver box would pluginto the sprinkler controller.
The transciever and remote would be either an optional accessory, or a tool used by sprinkler maintenance personnel, temporarily installed to service a sprinkler set.
There are a number of companies selling equipment that will convert a standard residential controller to remote control. My company (irrigation) bought these to install on larger commercial systems (where there was a financial payback to us...to cut labor time). These were somewhat expensive but I believe other companies have introduced lower cost versions. One could not reprogram a controller with this equipment, simply turn on/off various zones. Check with an irrigation distributor.
Another alternative is to learn how to turn on a zone valve manually. These valves are sometimes closer than the controller. Doug
I like this wireless sprinkler idea. However, I would consider radio technology rather than BlueTooth as Classicsat indicated. It would also be nice if Malibu lights can be integrated with Sprinker Master control systems with a remote to go with it as well.