Rachio is a well-known name when it comes to connected sprinkler systems and particularly has become a go-to choice for controlling irrigation with a voice assistant. Today, the company announced Rachio 3, “the most connected controller on the market.”
Compatible with Alexa, Assistant, SmartThings, Nest, and IFTTT, Rachio 3 is equipped to work with just about every smart assistant on the market. Read on to learn more about Rachio 3 and what it brings to the table.
The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller now features easier installation, 5GHz Wi-Fi and a new long-range radio for more connection and accessory options. As more and more homes convert to newer routers, 802.11ac is becoming the norm and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi is on its way out.
We’re getting faster speeds, longer range, and more from newer routers. Because of this, older technology that relies on that 2.4GHz network will soon be outdated and a thing of the past. Because of this, Rachio 3 has been updated to use 5GHz Wi-Fi to make sure it stays connected as you upgrade to the latest and greatest.
The internal radios of Rachio 3 have also been updated. Alongside the launch of Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller, the company also launched the Rachio Wireless Flow Meter, which uses patented Vortex technology to get extremely accurate measurements of water flow.
This Flow Meter uses the new radios inside of the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller to communicate and can let you know when leaks occur, and even shut off water to avoid damage to landscaping and more.
Through the cloud, Rachio 3 can be controlled from anywhere at anytime. This means that if you’re on vacation and forget to disable the sprinklers because you’re in a water restricted time, it’s easy to change that.
There’s also Rachio Weather Intelligence, which automatically adjusts watering schedules to reflect hyperlocal weather forecasts.
Sprinkler systems have had rain sensors for quite a long time, but one thing that most systems never took into account was either wind or temperatures. Rachio Weather Intelligence will change your watering schedules based on rainfall, wind, and freezing temperatures to make sure you’re not watering when it’s unnecessary.
Rachio 3 will start shipping in late March to early April depending on when you order starting at $199.99 for an 8-zone system. Stepping up to a 16-zone system will run you $249.99, though these prices are introductory prices available at pre-order only.
If you want to get the entire system with the controller and flow meter, expect to pay closer to $279.99. Save even more by using code R3LAUNCH20 at checkout for $20 off your order.
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