Select a model that can perform watering frequency adjustment.

• Your selected model should have the capability to make automatic adjustments based on information in the Landscape Watering by the Numbers guide.

The best fit for our Sonoran Desert climate is to select a model that is able to adjust watering frequency (the number of days between watering). For example, a desert adapted shrub needs water weekly in summer but only monthly in winter. Many smart controllers will not adjust in this way, so be sure to check the model's capabilities before purchasing.

Studies show that most smart irrigation controllers save up to 20% of the water a traditional controller uses. This is a significant water savings because up to 70% of household water use is outdoors in the Valley.

Smart irrigation controllers will maximize water savings by optimizing your system's water usage and adjusting seasonally and when it rains.

Smart irrigation controllers will work best if accurate information about your yard is input at the beginning of setup. Some smart controllers will ask for information about your yard's plant, soil, and sprinkler types. You will also need to know the rate at which your irrigation applies water

Here are our programming guides for the three major smart irrigation controller brands in Queen Creek:

• Rainbird (ESP-SMTe) controllers
• Rachio controllers
• B-Hyve controllers

You can also watch our archived video presentations on optimizing your smart irrigation controller in general and on specifically optimizing your Rachio or Bhyve smart controllers at QueenCreekAZ.gov/WaterSmart.