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New irrigation controller for the vineyard - OpenSprinkler
23 kwiecień 2025, 10:23

New irrigation controller for the vineyard - OpenSprinkler

The unpredictable weather this spring and approaching frosts prompted us to modernize our irrigation system. The existing Hunter X2 controller worked well, but its limited remote control capabilities and API issues (despite a paid plan) led us to switch to OpenSprinkler.

Purchase and Equipment

We ordered:

  • OpenSprinkler 3.3 AC with WiFi and Ethernet
  • Zone Expansion Board AC, version 3.0
  • 24V AC power supply (1.5A)
OpenSprinkler close-up Close-up of terminals Installed set

Hunter Removal

The removal was relatively straightforward, but not without challenges. We had to unscrew all the wires, label each one to avoid mix-ups during reconnection, and then transfer the entire set to a new, waterproof junction box.

Disconnected wires from walls Labeled wires

OpenSprinkler Installation

We installed the new equipment in a waterproof Scabox enclosure (IP55). It took several hours and we finished testing after dark. Everything works as expected - each zone responds correctly, WiFi connectivity is stable, and logging into the interface is done through a browser or mobile app.

Testing from the mobile app WiFi configuration

Conclusions

We are very pleased with OpenSprinkler. The control is precise, you can set up irrigation loops depending on conditions (e.g., frost), and the integration with the local network and apps provides full control.

PS. If you want remote access from outside your home network - you need to equip your router with an external IP address and configure port forwarding accordingly.