To give you the quick answer, yes. Think of the times you’ve seen someone’s sprinklers running during a downpour, or heard of irrigation running during a cold night causing damage to plants. Every sprinkler system should have a functioning rain and freeze sensor, in my professional option.
The reasons why are pretty straightforward.
The rain sensor is literally a no-brainer! You no longer have to keep up with local rainfall and remember to turn your sprinkler off during the rain to save on your GRU water bill. It does it automatically, and typically pays for itself in 12-18 months on most Gainesville Sprinkler systems. If your lawn is larger than an 1/8th of an acre, it pays for itself even more quick. Also, it's an Alachua County Code requirement, and although they have very few code 'police,' no one wants to throw away money on their water bill AND have a code violation.
The freeze sensor is important as well. It protects your irrigation system from running during a freezing night, and casuing freeze damage to your landscape. (See photo)
If you have an irrigation timer from after 2008, the wireless rain and freeze sensors are fairly easy to install. The toughest part is finding a spot on your home that you can reach with your ladder that doesn’t have trees overhanging it (they block the rain).
If climbing a ladder isn’t your thing, or your sprinkler system is older and you’re not sure what to do, give us a call at 352-378-5296 or email us at info@themasterslawncare.com. Our certified sprinkler technicians can install a sensor as well as do affordable sprinkler system inspections and tune-ups that will guarantee appropriate and adequate water coverage for your lawn.