Installing a lawn sprinkler system helps ensure your grass receives the proper amount of water to grow green, strong, and healthy. While built-in timers allow the system to turn on and off without you needing to do anything, you don't want the sprinklers to turn on when it's raining or when the grass is already saturated. Rain sensors help solve this problem, preventing wasted water and keeping your grass healthy. 

The Basics of Rain Sensors 

A rain sensor is a part of a lawn sprinkler system that detects when it is raining or has rained recently. If the grass has already received enough water naturally, the sensor tells the sprinkler system not to turn on for the next cycle. 

Lawn sprinkler systems are one of two types. The first uses a rainfall collection cup mounted on your home. When the cup fills up, the device wirelessly sends a message to the timer to skip the next watering cycle. One drawback is leaves and other debris can fill the cup, indicating to the sprinkler that it's full even when the lawn needs to be watered. 

The second type of sensor uses a disk that expands when wet, and if it reaches full saturation, it creates pressure on a switch that cuts the electrical connection to the lawn sprinkler system. When the moisture evaporates, the disk shrinks, restoring the connection. 

Why Rain Sensors Are Important 

If you've ever seen a lawn sprinkler system kick on when it's raining, you know how important a rain sensor is. It prevents wasted water and high bills. 

However, it's also important for maintaining grass health. Overwatering grass can wash away nutrients, and cause pollution to groundwater thanks to fertilizer, pet waste, and other chemicals getting washed into drains. Turning off the sprinklers when it rains prevents this from happening. 

To keep your grass healthy and green, invest in a lawn sprinkler system from Allgreen Irrigation Systems in Cumming, GA. For 25 years, this team has helped clients in Forsyth County maintain beautiful lawns with irrigation system installation and maintenance. Learn more about their services  online and call (770) 888-9399 for a free estimate.