Watering computer Archive - Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer https://www.irrigation-guide.com/category/watering-computer Garden irrigation blog with A to Z instructions for installing your own irrigation system Tue, 17 Mar 2026 15:37:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 New OpenSprinkler 3.4 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/new-opensprinkler-3-4.html Sun, 08 Mar 2026 15:34:31 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=3733 OpenSprinkler has upgraded its hardware, the irrigation controller is now available in version 3.4. In this article, I describe the new features compared to the previous hardware version 3.3. OpenSprinkler not only receives regular software updates, but the hardware—the physical device itself—is also continuously improved. The last update was to version 3.3 in 2023, and [...]

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]]> OpenSprinkler has upgraded its hardware, the irrigation controller is now available in version 3.4. In this article, I describe the new features compared to the previous hardware version 3.3.

OpenSprinkler not only receives regular software updates, but the hardware—the physical device itself—is also continuously improved. The last update was to version 3.3 in 2023, and now there’s another leap to version 3.4. The new OpenSprinkler 3.4 is immediately recognizable by its slightly altered appearance. It looks a bit more square, is slightly narrower, but taller and flatter than the old model. Dimensions in detail:

  • OpenSprinkler 3.4: Length 125 mm, Width 79 mm, Height 25 mm
  • OpenSprinkler 3.3: Length 140 mm, Width 56 mm, Height 33 mm

The new model is on the left, the old model on the right.

Technical changes in detail:

2 new sensor inputs

The OpenSprinkler 3.4 now has 4 sensor inputs instead of the previous 2. This allows for the connection of more sensors. However, a software update is still required so that the software offers the two additional ports for selection; this should be released soon.

Now 4 instead of 2 sensor inputs (SN1 to SN4)

Connection option for Ethernet module

For OpenSprinkler version 3.0 and later, a wired LAN connection was not originally planned, based on the assumption that a web connection could be made using the integrated Wi-Fi functionality. However, it was underestimated that many users still prefer a reliable wired connection.

Therefore, an improvised Ethernet port was added inside the device with OpenSprinkler 3.3, which could be used with a little tinkering. OpenSprinkler 3.4 now makes this significantly easier by providing a user-friendly Ethernet connection via a ribbon cable port on the right side of the device.

It would be even better, of course, to install an Ethernet port there instead of the ribbon cable port. As it stands, the additional Ethernet module shown below is still required, costing approximately $25.

 

Switching from a two-layer to a single-layer circuit design

Not something that directly benefits the user, but interesting background information: OpenSprinkler previously used a two-layer circuit design, consisting of an upper logic board and a lower driver board.

This was originally intended to allow for interchangeable driver boards (AC, DC, and Latch) to connect different solenoid valve types via the same logic board. Using only one board now significantly simplifies assembly, enabling more efficient and time-saving manufacturing.

Power Supply Connection

The power supply is no longer connected directly via the cable wires, but rather via a more user-friendly barrel connector. This eliminates the need to strip the wires; instead, a standard, readily available connector can be used.

New Barrel Connector

USB 3.0 Power Connection on the DC Model

The OpenSprinkler 3.4 continues to be available as an AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) model. The Latch model, previously offered as a third option, is no longer available for version 3.4. This latch model is required for use with the typical 9V solenoid valves for battery-operated irrigation controllers, which are often marked with the word “Latch.” The latch model from its predecessor, OpenSprinkler 3.3, is still available for this purpose.

At first glance, the DC model appears almost identical to the AC model, with the key difference being that it now features a modern USB 3.0 input instead of a barrel connector for power.

On the left, the DC model with the USB 3.0 connection; on the right, the AC model with the barrel connector.

OpenSprinkler 3.4 DC with power plug attached.

This connection eliminates the need for specific power supplies; the controller can simply be plugged into a wall outlet using the standard USB 3.0 connector. Therefore, the OpenSprinkler DC model is generally preferable to the AC model. The DC model can switch both standard 24V AC solenoid valves and non-holding DC solenoid valves, and it also operates more energy-efficiently than its AC counterpart.

The AC model, on the other hand, can only switch 24V AC solenoid valves. This model should only be used if you intend to use the computer to control a pump start relay, as the DC version is not compatible with all pump start relays available on the market.

Conclusion

OpenSprinkler 3.4 brings some excellent improvements! Particularly noteworthy are the two additional sensor inputs, the improved Ethernet connectivity, and especially the simpler power supply with a barrel connector on the AC model and, even more importantly, the new USB 3.0 port on the DC model.

If two sensor inputs are sufficient for your needs and you don’t plan to connect your computer directly to the LAN, then the predecessor model 3.3, which is still available in some places, represents a worthwhile and affordable alternative due to the significant price reduction now offered.

Note: Readers of this blog are offered a 10% discount by the OpenSprinkler Shop when purchasing an OpenSprinkler or OpenSprinkler Pi. Use the coupon code OSPOWER15YR when ordering!

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]]> What are OpenSprinkler and OpenSprinkler Pi, and who do they make sense for? https://www.irrigation-guide.com/what-are-opensprinkler-and-opensprinkler-pi-and-who-do-they-make-sense-for.html Fri, 06 Mar 2026 14:30:58 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=3709 OpenSprinkler is a web-based, open-source irrigation controller. Both the software code and the hardware schematics are freely available to everyone and can be used for personal projects and further development. This article explains the advantages of this open-source nature, the different versions of the controller currently available, and which version is best suited for [...]

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OpenSprinkler is a web-based, open-source irrigation controller. Both the software code and the hardware schematics are freely available to everyone and can be used for personal projects and further development. This article explains the advantages of this open-source nature, the different versions of the controller currently available, and which version is best suited for different users.

To understand exactly what OpenSprinkler is, it’s helpful to take a brief look at the product’s history:

OpenSprinkler History

Unlike other irrigation controllers on the market, OpenSprinkler wasn’t developed by a professional irrigation or electronics company. Instead, it resulted from a private initiative by Ray Wang, an IT professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

In 2010, he installed an irrigation system in his own garden and began searching for a suitable controller. The products available on the market reminded him of the long-gone 1980s in terms of functionality and design, offering very limited features and no web connectivity. So Wang took matters into his own hands and, within a few weeks, built his own irrigation controller with web connectivity and more functionality, presenting this prototype on his personal blog. The prototype and the idea behind it were very well received and marked the beginning of OpenSprinkler.

Ray founded a company with commercial intentions to handle the production, marketing, and distribution of the product. At the same time, he committed himself to the open-source philosophy, making the source code of the software and the computer’s blueprints publicly available. This allows third parties to fully understand how the product works and, consequently, to improve it independently. Anyone with ambitions in this direction can therefore build directly upon the current state of development and doesn’t have to start from scratch.

The first OpenSprinkler 1.0 was released in 2011. Initially, it was a do-it-yourself kit that allowed users to assemble the finished sprinkler themselves within a few hours. The irrigation controller was structurally limited to the essentials. It consisted of the actual computer, a simple ATmega328 microcontroller, an Ethernet controller for connecting to a LAN network, an 8-channel relay for switching up to eight 24V solenoid valves, and a simple cover to protect the components.

Do-it-yourself kit for OpenSprinkler 1.1

And this is what the fully assembled irrigation computer looked like.

Visually, it didn’t have much in common with irrigation controllers from other manufacturers, but it offered significant advantages: First, programming and operation were possible via a web interface, making it convenient to use a PC or laptop’s web browser, unlike other manufacturers’ controllers, which only allowed direct access. Second, with some effort and existing programming knowledge, the irrigation programming could be tailored to individual needs (the software is maintained on the Arduino platform, using the C/C++ programming language), and the web connection allowed for the integration of external data, such as weather information, for irrigation.

The observation that some users were using OpenSprinkler in combination with a Raspberry Pi computer led to the additional development of OpenSprinkler Pi in 2013. This is not a complete irrigation controller, but rather a sprinkler expansion board for Raspberry Pi users. It can be connected to the computer, thus adding sprinkler functionality.

In 2013, a dedicated OpenSprinkler app was developed, allowing for convenient operation of the software via mobile phone.

In 2016, the product range was expanded to include OpenSprinkler Bee, a small irrigation controller for battery-operated 9V solenoid valves that can control up to three valves.

Over the years, the software has been continuously developed, and new hardware versions have been released. A description of the currently available products, including an assessment of who I believe they are suitable for, can be found below:

OpenSprinkler Irrigation Controller

The OpenSprinkler irrigation controller is currently available in version 3.4. It is now a fully assembled irrigation controller; no further assembly is required. The controller is ready to use immediately and is no different from irrigation controllers from other manufacturers in this respect.

The controller can be ordered in three different power supply options:

  • Powered by a 24V AC adapter
  • Powered by a 7.5V DC adapter
  • Powered by a 7.5V DC adapter for self-holding “latch” valves (7.5V DC Latch), only available in version 3.3

If you are using self-holding DC latch solenoid valves (these are the typical 9V solenoid valves for battery-operated irrigation controllers and are usually marked with “Latch”), then the third option is mandatory, as only this option can control such latch valves. If not, then the second option, 7.5V DC, is usually preferable, as it can switch both standard 24V AC solenoid valves and non-holding DC solenoid valves. The first option should be used if you intend to use the computer to control a pump start relay, as the second option is not compatible with all pump start relays available on the market.

In addition, an optional module for an Ethernet LAN output can be ordered alongside the Wi-Fi connection.

Below is an overview of the OpenSprinkler performance data.

OpenSprinkler 3.4
Model variants 2 variants: 24V AC (for 24V AC valves), 7.5V DC (for 24V AC valves and 7.5V to 12V DC valves), only available for OpenSprinkler 3.3: 7.5V DC Latch (for 7.5V to 12V DC Latch valves)
Number of controllable solenoid valves 8 (expandable by 16 additional zones with an additional module, a maximum of 4 additional modules can be connected, the maximum possible number of zones is therefore 72)
Can it be used with 24-volt or 9-volt solenoid valves? Depending on the model variant
Programming options Up to 40 programs can be configured to control the defined zones; each program can have up to 4 start times per day. A special feature of OpenSprinkler is the ability to start multiple zones simultaneously.
Irrigation duration 1 second to 1,080 minutes
Global increase/reduction of irrigation duration 1 to 250%
Connectable sensors Four sensor ports are available, allowing the connection of a rain sensor, soil moisture sensor, flow sensor, programmable switch, or any other sensor operating on a normally open or normally closed principle. The specific sensor and its operating characteristics are defined in the software.
Connection for master valve/pump start circuit? There is no dedicated connection, but one of the eight existing zone connections in the software can be defined as the connection for the master valve. Similarly, a second connection can also be defined as master valve 2.
Is direct control via computer possible? Only to a very limited extent (the small display and the 3 selection buttons only show some basic information such as the time, zone status and rain status, and you can start programs manually)
Power/Battery Power connection via externally mounted 24 Volt AC or 7.5 Volt DC transformer (depending on model)
Indoor/Outdoor Indoor use (for weatherproof outdoor use, a separate IP-65 enclosure can be purchased)
WiFi? Yes (optional additional LAN connection via add-on module also possible)
The app runs on Apple iOS devices, Google Android devices
Access via web browser possible? Yes
Use of local weather data? Yes
Price $140 or $183 with an additional LAN port

Who would benefit from an OpenSprinkler irrigation controller?

Unlike in 2011, when the first OpenSprinkler was launched, there are now numerous smart irrigation controllers on the market that can be controlled via the web.

In my opinion, the most sophisticated systems currently available are Hunter Hydrawise and LinkTap. Orbit’s B-hyve also offers a quite powerful solution with a very good price-performance ratio. All three systems are characterized by their ability to provide highly customized, weather-data-based automated irrigation. If you are primarily looking for an irrigation controller that can be remotely controlled from anywhere in the world via an app, but without sophisticated weather-dependent control options, then the RainPoint computers, the Rain Bird Smart Watering System, or the Smart System from the German manufacturer Gardena are further alternatives.

Therefore, OpenSprinkler can no longer rely on web control as a key selling point. However, it does differ from other providers in several aspects that may make it interesting for some users:

  • It is independent of external cloud solutions or external servers. The OpenSprinkler is a fully functional computer with a built-in web interface that can be accessed with any external browser. Data is not transferred to any external location, and no online registration is required, unlike with other providers. Therefore, you are completely in control of your own data and independent of external services. This also eliminates any risk should the product be discontinued at some point.

  • The software includes a few features that are not available from other providers, such as simultaneous watering of 2 or more zones, support for 2 master valves, or switching of zones from other OpenSprinkler computers.

  • The software is significantly less restrictive than other providers. For example, instead of just 3 or 4 programs as with other providers, up to 40 programs can be defined, and irrigation cycles can have a very long duration of up to 1,080 minutes. Furthermore, the duration of these cycles can be defined down to the second.

  • Both the software and hardware are Open Source, meaning all knowledge is publicly available. With the appropriate expertise, users can tailor the software to their own needs or make modifications and additions on their computers. The well-documented HTTP API allows for seamless integration of the OpenSprinkler into existing home automation systems. Users also benefit from the know-how of the very active community, as specialized solutions are often shared with everyone.

  • The OpenSprinkler has two freely programmable sensor inputs. I’ve only seen this feature before from Hydrawise. The ability to connect a separate weather station to the OpenSprinkler is also currently only offered by Hydrawise and B-hyve, and sometimes only at an additional cost.

  • In addition to standard zones, virtual RF (radio frequency) and HTTP zones can also be defined. An RF zone can be used, for example, to activate and deactivate an RF socket, while an HTTP zone can trigger a GET request to execute specific actions, such as interacting with other smart home devices.

  • The computer can optionally be connected via Ethernet connection using an inexpensive additional component, in addition to Wi-Fi.

  • Zone expansions (16 additional zones per expansion module) are offered at a comparatively fair price; other providers sometimes charge many times more.

A significant potential drawback is that OpenSprinkler is not accessible from anywhere in the world via the web by default! Access is normally only possible via your home Wi-Fi network, or alternatively, you can access the computer directly without Wi-Fi. However, you must be within range of the OpenSprinkler to do this. To access OpenSprinkler from elsewhere via the app or browser, you need to set up a VPN (virtual private network) beforehand. This can be a bit of a hurdle for those unfamiliar with IT.

Update: OpenSprinkler recently introduced a free cloud solution that allows you to access your computer anytime, anywhere.

A second minor drawback is the weather-based irrigation: While three different modes can currently be selected (evapotranspiration, Zimmermann, and automatic rain delay), a configuration as detailed as that offered by the Hunter Hydrawise system is not yet possible. However, the Opensprinkler performs very well in this regard, even surpassing the Rain Bird Smart Watering System and the Gardena Smart System.

Conclusion:

The Opensprinkler is a very ambitious product with an appealing philosophy behind it and offers an alternative if you can’t find a suitable smart irrigation controller from other providers, for example, because you have more specific requirements or because it’s important to you to be able to tailor the product very precisely to your needs. A third target group consists of people who are very sensitive about the handling of their data and reject registration and data transmission via a third-party server. And last but not least, there’s the group of passionate tinkerers who enjoy working together on a product in an active community. If you don’t fall into any of these groups and simply want to buy a ready-made, functional product, then you’re better off with conventional irrigation controller providers.

Further Information

The OpenSprinkler website offers the option to log into the web interface of a demo OpenSprinkler and thus try out in detail the software’s capabilities:

Link: demo.opensprinkler.com (Password: opendoor)

OpenSprinkler Pi

The second popular OpenSprinkler product is the OpenSprinkler Pi. Unlike the previously introduced OpenSprinkler, this is not a complete, ready-to-use irrigation controller, but rather an irrigation expansion board for a Raspberry Pi computer. The board is connected to the Raspberry Pi via its GPIO pins (40 metal pins serving as universal interfaces). This adds zone inputs to the computer for controlling solenoid valves. These valves can then be controlled directly via the Raspberry Pi. Therefore, an OpenSprinkler Pi board only functions as an irrigation controller when used with a Raspberry Pi computer.

A Raspberry Pi computer is a small, credit card-sized, basic, yet relatively powerful computer that is very affordable, costing around $40 to $50. It contains all the essential components of a computer and a few interfaces for connecting peripherals, but it lacks a case, hard drive, and screen. The necessary software is instead installed via an SD/MMC card slot. Raspberry Pi computers have a large following and have sold over 45 million units worldwide. The target audience is primarily hobbyists and tinkerers.

The software for the OpenSprinkler Pi is the same as for OpenSprinkler.

Who would benefit from an OpenSprinkler Pi expansion card?

Primarily, it’s ideal for Raspberry Pi owners and those planning to become one. This is especially true if other home automation components are already running on the Raspberry Pi. This allows for centralized control of everything from a single computer. If you’re starting from scratch and have no prior experience with Raspberry Pi computers, then a pre-built OpenSprinkler is definitely the better choice. Unless, of course, you want to take the opportunity to enter the Raspberry Pi world with OpenSprinkler Pi.

The big difference to OpenSprinkler: With OpenSprinkler, you can, if you wish, do some tinkering or programming yourself, or simply use the ready-made irrigation computer; with OpenSprinkler Pi, a certain amount of tinkering and IT-related input is definitely necessary to arrive at a usable solution.

OpenSprinkler Bee

The third product offered is the OpenSprinkler Bee, a small irrigation controller with three zone outputs for 9V DC latch solenoid valves. This is the typical 9-volt solenoid valve that is usually controlled by battery-powered irrigation controllers without a power connection. The first generation of the Bee was battery-operated (two AA batteries), but the current version has a USB input for power.

The rationale behind this change is difficult for me to understand, as it defeats the original purpose of the Bee: to control solenoid valves when there is no mains power available at the irrigation controller’s location. A USB cable also requires a device with a power connection, and I’m currently unaware of any way to connect a USB cable directly to a battery. Powering it with a power bank is also technically impossible, as power banks are designed for charging batteries and cannot be used directly as a power source. The OpenSprinkler Bee is now simply a cheaper, stripped-down version of the OpenSprinkler for latch solenoid valves, but no longer an alternative for use in locations without a power outlet.

Addendum: A third party suggested that combining it with a mini solar power system might be a solution.

Where to buy

OpenSprinkler irrigation controllers are not available at hardware stores and currently not on Amazon or eBay. They can be purchased directly from the manufacturer’s shop opensprinkler.com in the USA or from national OpenSprinkler retailers.

The OpenSprinkler computer currently costs between $140 and $183, depending on the model, the OpenSprinkler Pi card costs $70 without and $88 with power adapter, and the smaller OpenSprinkler Bee computer costs $62 without and $72 with USB wall adapter.

For detailed information, or if you’re looking for a solution to a specific problem or want to benefit from software extensions already implemented by other users, it’s worth taking a look at the extensive English-language OpenSprinkler forum.

Available from: OpenSprinkler Shop

Note: Readers of this blog are offered a 10% discount by the OpenSprinkler Shop when purchasing an OpenSprinkler or OpenSprinkler Pi. Use the coupon code OSPOWER15YR when ordering!

© All Images used: OpenSprinkler.com, except OpenSprinkler 3.4 (own image)

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]]> LinkTap G2S review https://www.irrigation-guide.com/linktap-g2s-review.html Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:04:18 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=3649 Several years ago, I reviewed the predecessor to the LinkTap G2S, the LinkTap G2, on my blog, and it performed quite well in my test. Now it was high time to take a closer look at the current LinkTap model. In this post, I'll examine the LinkTap's functionalities, how it has improved compared to [...]

Der Beitrag LinkTap G2S review erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

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Several years ago, I reviewed the predecessor to the LinkTap G2S, the LinkTap G2, on my blog, and it performed quite well in my test. Now it was high time to take a closer look at the current LinkTap model. In this post, I’ll examine the LinkTap’s functionalities, how it has improved compared to its predecessor, and how it compares to competing irrigation controllers.

Like all LinkTap irrigation controllers, the LinkTap G2S requires an additional gateway to operate. And, unlike Wi-Fi, it uses the more reliable Zigbee protocol for wireless communication between the gateway and the irrigation controller.

The G2S’s Place in the LinkTap Product Range

The LinkTap G2S, along with the G1S, is the smallest LinkTap irrigation controller, both have one output. What distinguishes the G2S from the G1S? The G2S is essentially a G1S with the addition of a water flow sensor and a tilt sensor. These two sensors allow you to monitor the proper functioning of your irrigation system: The tilt sensor detects and automatically alerts you if the controller falls from its designated position during operation. The even more important water flow sensor triggers an alarm if water flow is detected when no irrigation is running or if other unusual behavior is observed.

With a current price difference of only about $25, I would definitely recommend the G2S due to the numerous functionalities of the water flow sensor (more on this later in the article)!

What other alternatives does LinkTap offer to the G2S, and how do they differ? The other LinkTap models essentially have the same functionality and all use the same app; the main difference lies in the number of outputs.

The LinkTap D1 and the LinkTap T1 both have two outputs. The T1 is designed for harsher weather conditions (wetlands, coastal areas, or flood-prone areas) compared to the D1. The control unit and valve unit are divided into two separate devices. The batteries and most of the electronics are housed in the Valve Linker, which has two outlets and can be mounted separately from the valve unit in a more moisture-protected location. Both controllers are priced similarly.

The LinkTap Q1 is the largest LinkTap model with four outlets.

The G1S, G2S, D1, T1, and Q1 are irrigation controllers through which the water flows directly. LinkTap also offers the ValveLinker, a second type of irrigation controller that does not come into direct contact with water but serves as a control center for external solenoid valves. It is available in three models for controlling one, two, or four solenoid valves.

Tabular comparison of LinkTap models:

LinkTap G1S Wireless Water Timer & Gateway - Smart Sprinkler Timer with App, Remote Irrigation for Garden, Weather Aware, Greater Range Than WiFi, Anti-Freeze Protection, 2 Year Battery Life, IP66 G1S timer+gateway
LinkTap G2S Smart Water Timer & Gateway, Greater Range Than WiFi Hose Timer, Real-Time Fault Detection & Alerts, Weather Awareness, Automatic Sprinkler Watering System for Lawns and Yard, Anti-Freeze G2S timer+gateway
LinkTap D1 Smart Sprinkler Timer | Requires Gateway | 2-Outlet Water Timer for Garden Hose, Wider Range Than WiFi Hose Timers, App & Voice Control, Weather Adaptive, Smart Irrigation System for Yard D1 timer only
LinkTap T1 Smart 2-Zone Water Timer & Gateway, Built-in Flow Meters, Real-Time Fault Detection & Alerts, Weather Adaptive, Anti-Freeze, Better Range Than WiFi Hose Timer, IP66, Alexa, 2-Year Warranty T1 timer+gateway
LinkTap Q1 4-Zone Wireless Water Timer & Gateway, Equals Four G2S Smart Hose Timers Q1 timer+gateway
LinkTap ValveLinker, Requires Gateway, Indoor/Outdoor Smart Sprinkler/Irrigation Controller, Battery Powered, Weather Smart, Better Range Than WiFi, Compatible with LinkTap 1" & 2“ Flow Meter (4-Zone) 4-Zone valve controller
Computer
LinkTap G1S
LinkTap G2S
LinkTap D1
LinkTap T1
LinkTap Q1
LinkTap V1 ("Valve Linker")
Zones
1
1
2
2
4
1, 2 or 4 (depending on the variant)
Integrated/ Connectable Water Flow Sensor?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 x AA batteries
4 x AA batteries
4 x AA batteries
2 x 9 V block batteries
2 x 9 V block batteries
2 x 9 V block batteries
Variants
Z1 (1 zone), Z2 (2 zones), Z4 (4 zones)
Price
$85.00
$119.00
$149.00
$189.00
$269.00
$159.00
LinkTap G1S Wireless Water Timer & Gateway - Smart Sprinkler Timer with App, Remote Irrigation for Garden, Weather Aware, Greater Range Than WiFi, Anti-Freeze Protection, 2 Year Battery Life, IP66 G1S timer+gateway
Computer
LinkTap G1S
Zones
1
Integrated/ Connectable Water Flow Sensor?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 x AA batteries
Variants
Price
$85.00
LinkTap G2S Smart Water Timer & Gateway, Greater Range Than WiFi Hose Timer, Real-Time Fault Detection & Alerts, Weather Awareness, Automatic Sprinkler Watering System for Lawns and Yard, Anti-Freeze G2S timer+gateway
Computer
LinkTap G2S
Zones
1
Integrated/ Connectable Water Flow Sensor?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 x AA batteries
Variants
Price
$119.00
LinkTap D1 Smart Sprinkler Timer | Requires Gateway | 2-Outlet Water Timer for Garden Hose, Wider Range Than WiFi Hose Timers, App & Voice Control, Weather Adaptive, Smart Irrigation System for Yard D1 timer only
Computer
LinkTap D1
Zones
2
Integrated/ Connectable Water Flow Sensor?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 x AA batteries
Variants
Price
$149.00
LinkTap T1 Smart 2-Zone Water Timer & Gateway, Built-in Flow Meters, Real-Time Fault Detection & Alerts, Weather Adaptive, Anti-Freeze, Better Range Than WiFi Hose Timer, IP66, Alexa, 2-Year Warranty T1 timer+gateway
Computer
LinkTap T1
Zones
2
Integrated/ Connectable Water Flow Sensor?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
2 x 9 V block batteries
Variants
Price
$189.00
LinkTap Q1 4-Zone Wireless Water Timer & Gateway, Equals Four G2S Smart Hose Timers Q1 timer+gateway
Computer
LinkTap Q1
Zones
4
Integrated/ Connectable Water Flow Sensor?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
2 x 9 V block batteries
Variants
Price
$269.00
LinkTap ValveLinker, Requires Gateway, Indoor/Outdoor Smart Sprinkler/Irrigation Controller, Battery Powered, Weather Smart, Better Range Than WiFi, Compatible with LinkTap 1" & 2“ Flow Meter (4-Zone) 4-Zone valve controller
Computer
LinkTap V1 ("Valve Linker")
Zones
1, 2 or 4 (depending on the variant)
Integrated/ Connectable Water Flow Sensor?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
2 x 9 V block batteries
Variants
Z1 (1 zone), Z2 (2 zones), Z4 (4 zones)
Price
$159.00

Product Scope

The LinkTap G2S comes in a compact box. Since I already own the gateway from previous tests, I ordered a set without it. If you don’t already have a LinkTap device, you’ll need to opt for a set with the gateway! This costs approximately $30 more.

The LinkTap G2S in its original packaging

The LinkTap G2S package includes the irrigation controller, the water flow sensor, a warranty card, a quick start guide, a 1/2-inch tap connector, a spare sealing ring, and a screwdriver for opening the battery compartment.

Also included is a threaded adapter that allows you to optionally reduce the irrigation controller’s inlet to 1/2 inch. A second adapter, which reduces the inlet from 1 inch to 3/4 inch, is already pre-installed. This allows you to screw the controller onto a 1-inch, 3/4-inch, or 1/2-inch threaded connection.

Batteries are not included. My package without the gateway includes a quick start guide; LinkTap assumes that existing users don’t need another full manual, which certainly makes sense from an environmental perspective. The complete G2S kit, including the gateway, in contrast includes a full user manual. All necessary installation steps and information about functionalities can also be found after downloading the LinkTap app, on the LinkTap website, or here on the blog.

Included in the package

Setup

As with virtually all smart irrigation controllers these days, initial setup is straightforward and takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes. To begin, download the LinkTap app for Android phones via Google Play and for Apple phones via the App Store.

The app provides step-by-step instructions for setup. First, install the gateway, followed by the irrigation controller. For installation and ongoing operation, the gateway must be connected to your internet router via an Ethernet cable. If your router doesn’t have a LAN port or if it’s already in use by another device, you can use a Wi-Fi repeater with a built-in Ethernet port (Amazon link), as shown in the following image. These can be purchased for around $15.

Update: LinkTap has announced that future models will offer both connectivity options: Ethernet and Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz). This is expected to be available for models from around 2026 onwards.

To add the gateway to the app, simply connect it to power and your LAN. Then, scan the number printed on the back of the gateway with your phone’s camera or enter it manually. The gateway will then be detected and ready to use.

The same process is then repeated for the irrigation controller: Enter the number on the back of the controller into the app. Next, insert four batteries into the irrigation controller and remember to switch it on using the small switch on the bottom. The irrigation controller will now also be detected and ready for use.

Hardware

Before I discuss the computer’s software, a few words about the hardware, i.e., the device itself. There are basically two types of irrigation controllers: In the first type, the solenoid valve, which opens and closes with each watering cycle, is integrated directly into the controller. This means the controller comes into direct contact with water. In the second type, the irrigation controller is purely a control unit that operates externally located solenoid valves; there is no direct contact with water.

The LinkTap G2S is a controller of the first type, through which the water flows directly. This type of irrigation controller has significantly higher manufacturing requirements than the second type. Due to constant contact with water and the typically exposed, not particularly weatherproof installation, many such controllers tend to leak after one or two seasons or to malfunction, with the integrated solenoid valve no longer opening and closing properly.

The market of such WiFi faucet controllers is relatively limited, as some major manufacturers like Rain Bird and Hunter don’t offer them, focusing entirely on the second type of irrigation timer. The LinkTap G2S competes in this segment of single-outlet devices with the Gardena Smart Water Control, the Orbit B-hyve Smart Faucet Timer, the RainPoint HTV145FRF, the Eve Aqua, and a handful of no-name irrigation timers.

Of all these alternatives, LinkTap offers the highest-quality hardware in my opinion!

Housing

The housing of the G2S

The housing of the G2S, like all LinkTap models, is made of very sturdy, hard plastic. At first touch, it almost feels like metal because it’s so solid. The irrigation controller feels very high-quality overall; nothing wobbles, the connections were watertight in my tests right away, even without additional sealant, and based on my experience, the controller still works perfectly after two or three seasons.

Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. I’ve had many unpleasant surprises in this regard during my testing with other brands. On the one hand, I’ve encountered devices that are cheaply made from the outset and feel so flimsy and cheap that you’d rather not even touch them for fear of breaking something or not being able to properly close a battery compartment once opened.

On the other hand, I’ve encountered devices that initially look and function quite well, but then, in the second or third season, leak due to brittle material or the solenoid valve no longer opens and closes properly. This is tantamount to total failure and is particularly frustrating with a relatively expensive Wi-Fi device.

Finally, some manufacturers have very lax quality control, so I’ve already encountered several devices I bought for testing that were already malfunctioning upon delivery and had to be replaced.

Therefore, my urgent advice is: When it comes to this type of irrigation controller that screws directly onto the tap, pay particular attention to proper manufacturing quality! You ultimately save nothing if you have to replace a supposedly “cheap purchase” after only two or three seasons!

LinkTap stands out positively in this regard: The products are robust and durable and appear to undergo thorough final inspection. So far, I haven’t encountered a single LinkTap product with obvious defects in my tests. This is also confirmed by the very good reviews on Amazon (4.7 out of 5 stars). I also find it worth mentioning that LinkTap actively focuses on sustainability and provides instructions on its website for repairing minor defects yourself. LinkTap also offers many repair parts free of charge, requiring only the customer to cover shipping costs.

Water Flow Sensor

A special feature is the water flow sensor, which LinkTap includes in all its computer models except the G1S, or at least offers the option to add one. This provides a significant advantage in monitoring and ensuring irrigation, a point that is often overlooked when purchasing an irrigation controller.

The water flow sensor is simply screwed onto the bottom of the outlet and the cable is plugged into the sensor input

In the event of a valve not closing properly, water can leak uncontrollably over a long period and cause damage. Less dramatic, but still annoying, is the case if a valve doesn’t open properly and the plants in your garden dry out. Both risks can be significantly reduced with a water flow sensor. This sensor detects unwanted or unusual behavior and automatically sends a notification when it occurs, allowing you to react promptly.

Note: Even though the more affordable model, the LinkTap G1S, looks almost identical to the LinkTap G2S, it cannot be retrofitted with a water flow sensor because the necessary input is missing. Therefore, if you plan to use such a sensor, you must choose the G2S from the start!

At present, the G2S does not support the Advanced Flow Monitoring feature, a very clever monitoring option for the irrigation controller in conjunction with a flow switch, water level switch, or float valve. This feature is currently only available with the LinkTap models T1, Q1, and ValveLinker.

It’s important to be aware that using a water flow sensor always reduces water pressure slightly. You can think of it like a small turbine that’s turned by the water, thus measuring the flow rate. This isn’t a problem if the water source is adequately sized, but it can become an issue if the irrigation system is already tightly calculated and the sprinklers then no longer reach their intended throw distance. If necessary, the G2S can also be operated without the water flow sensor. Simply unscrew it and connect it directly to the threaded outlet.

Micro Flow Meter FM20-S

LinkTap offers a second water flow sensor, the Micro Flow Meter, as an alternative to the water flow sensor included in the kit. This second sensor is suitable for very low flow rates, such as those found in micro-irrigation solutions. Standard water flow sensors are incapable of handling such small volumes. The water flow sensor included in the kit is designed for flow rates of at least 30 gallons (120 liters) up to a maximum of 800 gallons (3.000 liters) per hour. The Micro Flow Meter, on the other hand, is suitable for very low flow rates, from 3 gallons (12 liters) per hour up to a maximum of 80 gallons (300 liters) per hour. It costs $20.

Alternative for micro-irrigation systems with very low water flow rates: LinkTap FM20-S Micro Flow Meter

Manually Starting an Irrigation Cycle

From my own experience, this is quite important: The G2S has a blue button on the front for starting an irrigation cycle directly on the computer. Nothing is more annoying than standing in front of the irrigation controller wanting to start a quick watering cycle, only to find you can’t because you don’t have your mobile phone handy.

This button is a new addition compared to the previous G2 model. Pressing the button starts the irrigation cycle. By default, it runs for 30 minutes, but can be ended prematurely at any time by pressing the button again. The 30-minute duration is also adjustable in the app; it can be set to any value between 1 and 1439 minutes.

On/Off Switch

A small detail, but still worth mentioning: The LinkTap controllers are currently the only irrigation controllers I know of that have their own on/off switch. This can be quite practical for switching off the irrigation controller if you won’t be using it for an extended period. This saves you the trouble of removing the batteries.

Inlet and Outlet

Two adapters are included for the inlet, allowing the irrigation controller to be used with 1-inch, 3/4-inch, and 1/2-inch faucets. A 1/2-inch tap connector is included for the outlet. If using the controller for an irrigation system, this connector should definitely be replaced with a 3/4-inch tap connector to avoid unnecessary pressure loss.

Wireless Connection

The high-quality wireless connection is a key feature. LinkTap deliberately uses the Zigbee protocol for communication between the gateway and the irrigation controller, as it offers a more stable and longer range compared to Wi-Fi. This can be a significant advantage if there are obstacles that are difficult for the wireless signal to overcome or if the two devices are far apart. In my tests, the wireless connection was sufficient for distances of up to 100 feet (30 meters) between the gateway and the irrigation controller; beyond 130 feet (40 meters), the connection failed.

For particularly large gardens or challenging locations, LinkTap offers the option of integrating a signal repeater. The LinkTap Extender costs $40, operates wirelessly, and is weatherproof. It can be positioned between the gateway and the irrigation controller, creating a mesh network between the components. For particularly long distances, multiple extenders can be connected in series. The extender can be powered by battery or cable. It can also be connected to a small solar panel.

Additional Sensors

Currently, neither a rain sensor nor a soil moisture sensor can be used with LinkTap devices. Due to the weather control enabled by the software, there is no real need for a rain sensor, but a soil moisture sensor can be quite useful in practice in addition to weather control. According to LinkTap, connecting such a sensor without a physical output will be possible via the software in the near future.

Pressure Loss

During a bucket test, I also specifically examined the pressure loss associated with using the G2S. It’s important to be aware that using an irrigation controller always results in a certain pressure loss compared to directly connecting the pipeline or hose to the water source.

First, I measured the water flow per hour at the outdoor tap where the test was conducted without the irrigation controller. Result: 550 gallons (2.100 liters) per hour.

Then I repeated the bucket test with the G2S irrigation controller. The water flow rate in the bucket test is reduced to approximately 400 gallons (1.500 liters) per hour when using the G2S. Out of curiosity, I also repeated the test without the water flow sensor attached, which resulted in a flow rate of about 420 gallons (1.600 liters) per hour – not a significant difference. With these figures, the G2S performs roughly on par with competitor products, although in my opinion, all of them still have room for improvement, namely by designing irrigation controllers with fewer bottlenecks. Only the Gardena Smart Water Control has a slightly better design in terms of pressure loss.

Software

This is the area where LinkTap has made the most progress since testing its predecessor. In my comparison of WiFi apps from the leading irrigation controller manufacturers, LinkTap is currently in second place and is hot on the heels of Hydrawise, the current top-performing software.

The weather control function is very user-friendly and includes all the essential features. While not quite as detailed as the Hydrawise system, it’s very practical in my opinion.Furthermore, the LinkTap app offers the best functionality when used with a water flow sensor and includes features like Smart Anti-Freeze Protection, which are not found in any other system.

And very importantly: LinkTap is currently the most innovative system on the market, with continuous software development. Most recently, enhanced flow monitoring and intelligent frost protection were added, and according to the Australian LinkTap developers, further software enhancements are planned. For example, it should be possible to use your own weather station in the future. You automatically benefit from these future expansions through the free updates available via the app.

In the following article, I have examined the LinkTap software in great detail and describe all its functionalities: Complete description of the LinkTap app’s features. The following table summarizes the key features of the software:

LinkTap G2S Smart Water Timer & Gateway, Greater Range Than WiFi Hose Timer, Real-Time Fault Detection & Alerts, Weather Awareness, Automatic Sprinkler Watering System for Lawns and Yard, Anti-Freeze G2S timer+gateway
Computer
LinkTap G2S
Software system
LinkTap
App runs on
Apple iOS devices, Google Android devices
Accessible via web browser?
Setup wizard for initial setup?start circuit?
Type of programming
On a zone basis
Start times
100
Watering duration
3 seconds to 24 hours
Types of irrigation
Interval mode, 7-day mode, odd-even mode, month mode or calendar mode
Definition of irrigation templates?
Local access without an internet connection?
No, however, Home Assistant integration is supported, allowing local access without a web connection.
Give access to other users?
Assigning different user authorizations?
Additional functions for contractors?
Yes, professionals have the option of creating an user account on behalf of the client and setting it up and testing it for them before handover to the client.
Warning notifications?
Irrigation calendar?
Reports on irrigation, water consumption, weather, ...?
Connection of a flow meter?
Water flow meter is permanently integrated into the computer!
LinkTap G2S Smart Water Timer & Gateway, Greater Range Than WiFi Hose Timer, Real-Time Fault Detection & Alerts, Weather Awareness, Automatic Sprinkler Watering System for Lawns and Yard, Anti-Freeze G2S timer+gateway
Computer
LinkTap G2S
Software system
LinkTap
App runs on
Apple iOS devices, Google Android devices
Accessible via web browser?
Setup wizard for initial setup?start circuit?
Type of programming
On a zone basis
Start times
100
Watering duration
3 seconds to 24 hours
Types of irrigation
Interval mode, 7-day mode, odd-even mode, month mode or calendar mode
Definition of irrigation templates?
Local access without an internet connection?
No, however, Home Assistant integration is supported, allowing local access without a web connection.
Give access to other users?
Assigning different user authorizations?
Additional functions for contractors?
Yes, professionals have the option of creating an user account on behalf of the client and setting it up and testing it for them before handover to the client.
Warning notifications?
Irrigation calendar?
Reports on irrigation, water consumption, weather, ...?
Connection of a flow meter?
Water flow meter is permanently integrated into the computer!

Continuation

LinkTap G2S Smart Water Timer & Gateway, Greater Range Than WiFi Hose Timer, Real-Time Fault Detection & Alerts, Weather Awareness, Automatic Sprinkler Watering System for Lawns and Yard, Anti-Freeze G2S timer+gateway
Computer
LinkTap G2S
Define irrigation triggers?
Rules can be defined regarding rainfall and temperature, which can suspend irrigation runs or adjust the duration of irrigation
Using local weather data?
Weather station selectable?
Updating weather data
Before starting an irrigation run, storage for 6 hours
Integration of your own weather station possible?
Currently no (but should be possible in the future)
Seasonal adjustment definable per month?
No - Only possible to a limited extent
Suspend watering x days?
Cycle and soak phases?
Lawn growth program?
Start watering run manually?
Define a sensor yourself?
Master valve usable?
Valve delays definable?
Voice control with
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant possible via IFTTT
Ongoing costs?
None
LinkTap G2S Smart Water Timer & Gateway, Greater Range Than WiFi Hose Timer, Real-Time Fault Detection & Alerts, Weather Awareness, Automatic Sprinkler Watering System for Lawns and Yard, Anti-Freeze G2S timer+gateway
Computer
LinkTap G2S
Define irrigation triggers?
Rules can be defined regarding rainfall and temperature, which can suspend irrigation runs or adjust the duration of irrigation
Using local weather data?
Weather station selectable?
Updating weather data
Before starting an irrigation run, storage for 6 hours
Integration of your own weather station possible?
Currently no (but should be possible in the future)
Seasonal adjustment definable per month?
No - Only possible to a limited extent
Suspend watering x days?
Cycle and soak phases?
Lawn growth program?
Start watering run manually?
Define a sensor yourself?
Master valve usable?
Valve delays definable?
Voice control with
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant possible via IFTTT
Ongoing costs?
None

Here is some additional information on a few selected points:

Irrigation Types

When creating an irrigation schedule, you can choose from 5 different types: Interval mode, 7-day mode, Odd/Even mode, Month mode, or Calendar mode. This should cover virtually all conceivable scenarios. The Calendar mode offers the greatest possible flexibility.

Creating Irrigation Templates

While you cannot explicitly create templates, any irrigation schedule you create can be used as a template for other schedules, which essentially amounts to the same thing.

Granting Access to Other Users

It is possible to grant access to the app to other people. To do this, you can send an email invitation from within the app. You will be notified if the invitee accepts the invitation. Guest access, once granted, can be managed and revoked via the app.

Alert Notifications

Comprehensive alert notifications can be activated for up to nine events, as well as for additional events related to water flow. Notifications are received via push notification on your mobile phone and via email. A special feature: You can register up to two additional email addresses to which the alert emails will be sent.

Use of Weather Data

Weather data is obtained from the Apple WeatherKit service for the user’s local location. A specific weather station cannot be selected. According to LinkTap, the option to use your own weather station will be available in the future. Currently, this is not possible, unlike with Orbit B-hyve, Opensprinkler, and Hunter Hydrawise (for an additional fee).

Suspend Irrigation

Irrigation can be suspended for any duration between 0.1 and 240 hours, or paused indefinitely (with common presets such as 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours).

Set pause time

Use a Master Valve

LiLinkTap is the only irrigation controller of this type that I know of that allows the use of a master valve. For this purpose, a second LinkTap controller can be defined as the master valve.

Price and Availability

The complete G2S set, including the gateway, costs approximately $120 to $140. Without the gateway, it’s about $30 less.

As far as I know, the computer is only available online. Amazon offers a wide selection, while the complete range is available directly from the LinkTap online shop.

Note: As a reader of this blog, you can use a 5% discount coupon when shopping in the LinkTap online shop. Coupon code: LINKTAP-BSB! Like Amazon, LinkTap offers free shipping on all orders.

Conclusion and Recommendation

The LinkTap G2S has improved significantly compared to the LinkTap G2, which I tested in 2020! The hardware was already very good back then and has been slightly enhanced with a practical button for manual watering. In terms of hardware, LinkTap is currently the leader in faucet control water timers, in my opinion. The quality and durability of the hardware are extremely important for this type of irrigation controller, as they are subjected to heavy use and therefore sometimes break down very quickly.

A very good feature is the integrated water flow sensor. On the one hand, this allows you to keep a close eye on water consumption. Even more importantly, the sensor provides immediate notification of problems such as a valve that isn’t opening or closing properly, or a leak. This allows you to react immediately before any damage occurs.

The LinkTap software has made a significant leap forward, now offering even more sophisticated weather control based on both rainfall and temperature. Regarding rainfall, it can take into account both past and expected precipitation. Regarding temperature, the amount of water applied can be adjusted if the temperature exceeds a certain level when irrigation starts. The time period to be considered, as well as the amount of rainfall, watering volume, and temperature, can be freely entered. This works very well; only Hydrawise offers even more detailed weather control.

Furthermore, the LinkTap software includes several sophisticated features, such as an automatic temperature warning that uses a built-in temperature sensor to alert you to the risk of frost. Above all, LinkTap is currently the most innovative company among all manufacturers, continuously developing its software and gradually incorporating additional features requested by users.

LinkTap’s devices are generally positioned in the higher price range, and the LinkTap G2S, at $120 to $140, is no exception. However, compared to the overpriced Gardena Smart Water Control, the G2S is still relatively inexpensive. The Eve Aqua, which only works with Apple Home, is priced similarly, while the Orbit B-hyve Smart Faucet Timer and the RainPoint HTV145FRF, at around $80, are significantly cheaper, as are some generic, unbranded devices.

Despite its robust and high-quality hardware, which promises a longer lifespan, and especially its now-best software among faucet control water timers, the LinkTap G2S is my top recommendation!

In direct comparison to its competitors: The Gardena Smart Water Control is expensive and has very weak software. I would only consider it if you already own other smart Gardena devices, and even then, probably not.

The Eve Aqua costs about the same, but is essentially just a smart plug with much lower build quality than the G2S. It lacks a water flow sensor, only works with Apple Home, and has significantly reduced software with far fewer features.

The Orbit B-hyve Smart Faucet Timer is considerably cheaper and also includes a water flow sensor. Its software isn’t bad, but in my opinion, it’s somewhat inferior to the LinkTap software. What I dislike about Orbit is my experience with the build quality and durability of their devices. The price difference makes it worth considering, but you could also end up disappointed and annoyed if you have to replace the computer after only a short time.

Of the Chinese RainPoint computers, I’ve only tested the RainPoint models with two outputs so far. The hardware looks decent at first glance, but I lack the long-term experience to comment on its durability. The RainPoint software is at least two classes below LinkTap’s. However, if the software isn’t a priority and you primarily want to control the computer wirelessly and the low price is your main concern, it’s a worthwhile alternative.

The cheapest no-name water timer with WiFi (Amazon link) currently start at around $30. These are very basic devices whose software is essentially limited to remotely switching the controller on and off. These manufacturers have little to no experience with garden irrigation, and you shouldn’t expect much in terms of hardware quality and durability.

Final conclusion: The LinkTap G2S is currently the top choice among tap water timers due to its superior hardware and software! While the G2S can’t compete with the cheapest alternatives on price, I believe the higher price is justified by what it offers.

Der Beitrag LinkTap G2S review erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> RainPoint Wi-Fi irrigation computer tested: How good are the cheapest irrigation computers on the market? https://www.irrigation-guide.com/rainpoint-wi-fi-irrigation-computer-tested-how-good-are-the-cheapest-irrigation-computers-on-the-market.html Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:19:23 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=3304 A few years ago, I tested no-name irrigation computers from China for the first time. The results were very disappointing due to the poor manufacturing quality: The products were often defective upon delivery or problems arose shortly thereafter. I've now tested the web irrigation timers of all major brands here on the blog, with [...]

Der Beitrag RainPoint Wi-Fi irrigation computer tested: How good are the cheapest irrigation computers on the market? erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

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A few years ago, I tested no-name irrigation computers from China for the first time. The results were very disappointing due to the poor manufacturing quality: The products were often defective upon delivery or problems arose shortly thereafter.

I’ve now tested the web irrigation timers of all major brands here on the blog, with only the two well-known Chinese budget providers, RainPoint and Diivoo, missing from my test series. Now it was time to give the providers from the Far East another chance. In the following post, I took a closer look at RainPoint and tested two different RainPoint Wi-Fi irrigation timers: the TTV203WRF and the HTV213FRF.

What immediately distinguishes the timers from the Chinese providers RainPoint and Diivoo and is their outstanding selling point is their low price. Both are price leaders in the irrigation timer market and undercut their established competitors Gardena, LinkTap, Orbit, Hunter, Rain Bird, and OpenSprinkler with their product prices.

Both offer exclusively, or almost exclusively, faucet-controlled irrigation timers. These are irrigation timers that can be screwed directly onto a faucet and through which the water flows directly. These computers have the valve for opening and closing built directly into the computer, unlike the second type of irrigation computer, which doesn’t come into contact with water itself but switches external solenoid valves.

Faucet-controlled irrigation computers have very high quality standards compared to the other type of irrigation computer! Due to constant contact with water and permanent exposure to sun, wind, and weather, poorly manufactured computers are likely to fail after just one or two seasons. They usually either leak due to material weaknesses or the built-in solenoid valve no longer switches properly. A low price alone is of little use here if the product quality isn’t also up to scratch.

Who is RainPoint and what does the company offer?

RainPoint itself is purely a trademark. The company behind this brand is not that easy to identify or research from the outside.

The answer can be found in the product information for the shipped product and in the app’s privacy policy: The company behind RainPoint is called Fujian Baldr Technology Co., Ltd. and is based in China. It is a Chinese/US joint venture founded in 2012 that manufactures numerous electronic devices for gardening and agriculture, including irrigation timers, weather stations sold under the Baldr brand, pump filters, pressure reducers, solenoid valves, drip irrigation products, and various gardening tools.

The RainPoint irrigation timer brand has been around since 2017. It offers both traditional irrigation timers and smart irrigation timers with web connectivity, both in a wide variety of models. Classic irrigation computers with one, two, three, or four outlets, and Wi-Fi irrigation computers with one or two outlets.

These are almost exclusively faucet-controlled irrigation computers, which have the solenoid valve built directly into the computer; a single model for controlling external solenoid valves is currently in the range.

What strikes me as quite negative is the sheer proliferation of models, which makes it really difficult for consumers to keep track. It’s common and understandable that models are offered with different numbers of outlets and with or without web connectivity. But when, in parallel, devices of different generations, devices with brass or plastic threads, devices with standard gateways and antenna gateways, pure Bluetooth devices that can only be controlled from close proximity, and devices that run on different smart software are offered, it seems like overkill to me and makes it very difficult for customers to keep track of everything.

This is further compounded by the fact that various accessories, such as sensors, only work with some of the devices. This means there’s plenty of potential for making a mistake when purchasing. I’ve therefore listed the key distinguishing features below and, further down, show which models offer which functionality in an overview table.

My opinion: Overall, RainPoint’s product range policy doesn’t inspire much confidence in me, as it doesn’t convey the impression that the company is dedicated to individual models and their improvement and further development, but rather simply churns out one model after another. It also doesn’t speak to sustainability (supply of spare parts) if models are discontinued and no longer available after a short period of time. It would make more sense to focus on a few models and one software and gradually improve them!

What distinguishes the different RainPoint WiFi irrigation timers?

Below is an overview of the key differences:

Number of Outputs

RainPoint currently offers models with 1 and 2 outputs. Recently, a model with 4 outputs, the HTV405FRF, appeared on Amazon, which is not yet listed on RainPoint’s website.

Different Software

As mentioned, RainPoint offers a wide range of software options! Three different apps are currently available for the RainPoint irrigation timers.

  • RainPoint Tuya
  • HomGar
  • RainPoint Home

Important: Not every computer model can be used with every app, and some apps have very different functionality! Control via weather data is possible in some cases, but not in others. Some apps allow more programs to be created, others less. Navigation within the apps also varies greatly, ranging from relatively straightforward to quite confusing and cumbersome.

Therefore, before deciding on a specific RainPoint model, you should take a close look at the apps and then choose the model that can be operated with the app that appeals to you most! I’ll list which models work with which apps in the comparison table below.

Basically, it works like this:

  • The orange TTV models only work with the RainPoint Tuya app.
  • The white HTV models work with both the HomGar app and the RainPoint Home app.
  • The green HTV models only work with the RainPoint Home app.

RainPoint Tuya

This is RainPoint’s original, self-developed software. It also allows the control of other Tuya devices, and the app is structured like a smart home software with, in theory, a wide range of options. However, this also makes it very confusing and unnecessarily complex to control for garden irrigation purposes. If you’re primarily looking for irrigation computer software, this isn’t really a good choice. However, it does offer (limited) control options based on weather events.

HomGar

This is an open-source irrigation computer software used by RainPoint, which has a much more logical structure and clearer menu navigation than RainPoint Tuya. In terms of usability, it’s the better app, but completely lacks weather control options. HomGar is also used in devices from the second Chinese competitor, Diivoo.

RainPoint Home

Is a combination of the first two. The app’s operating concept and menu navigation are based on HomGar, but have been expanded to include the weather control and automation features of RainPoint Tuya. Currently, it’s RainPoint’s best app. It can be used with the green and white RainPoint models.

The orange TTV203WRF tested here uses the RainPoint Tuya software and only works with that software. The white HTV213FRF can be operated with the HomGar or RainPoint Home software, but not with the RainPoint Tuya software.

I describe the differences between the three different apps in more detail in the “Software” section.

Different Gateways (Hubs)

The following variations apply:

  • Gateways with standard or enhanced wireless reception (identified by the additional antenna)
  • Gateways with or without an additional power outlet
  • Gateways with or without an Ethernet port

The latest neon green model generation is sometimes delivered with routers with enhanced wireless performance, which can be identified by the small antenna. The corresponding hubs are called HWG023 and HWG040. This can be particularly worthwhile if there is a large distance between the gateway and the water computer.

The additional power outlet is useful if you don’t want to use an entire power outlet by plugging in the gateway, but want to continue using the outlet for other purposes. You can also use the outlet as a smart outlet via the app.

With a hub with an Ethernet port (HWG040), you have the option of connecting the computer to the internal network with an Ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi.

Plastic or Brass Thread

The new neon green generation of computers is offered with a brass thread at the computer input. The white HTV models all have plastic threads. The orange TTV models are available with both plastic threads and, at a slightly higher price, brass threads. Models with brass threads are also available at both the input and output.

My opinion: I see the latest trend in the RainPoint product range, to offer irrigation computers (optionally) with brass threads instead of plastic threads, as more of a marketing gimmick than a truly significant benefit for the consumer. The weak points of these computers are generally not in the thread area, which can be resealed with sealant if necessary. The problem is more that the housing is made of cheap, thin plastic, and in particular, the connections between the plastic parts and the threads become brittle and leaky over time. And that the built-in solenoid valves no longer function properly after a while. Brass valves won’t change that. And as other manufacturers like LinkTap show, computers with plastic threads can also be manufactured to a very high quality and long-lasting standard.

Included Water Flow Sensor

Most RainPoint water timers are equipped with an integrated water flow meter, which records how many gallons of water have been used. Only the white TTV102B water meter doesn’t include one!

Soil Moisture Sensors

RainPoint also offers additional soil moisture sensors for its timers, but these are only available for certain timer models.

  • Soil Moisture Sensor TCS005FRF – Can only be used with the two orange models TTV103WRF (1 output) and TTV203WRF (2 outputs).
  • 3-in-1 Sensor HCS021FRF (measures soil moisture, temperature, and light intensity) – Can only be used with the new neon green and white models (all models that begin with HTV).

Interfaces/Voice Control

All three apps can be connected to Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, allowing simple voice commands to be used for control. For example, “Ok Google, turn on water timer!” to turn on the irrigation computer, and “Ok Google, turn off water timer!” to turn off the computer.

Wi-Fi or only Bluetooth

Some of the same computers are offered as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi computers. The difference: The former doesn’t include a gateway, so you can only control the irrigation computer via Bluetooth when you’re in close proximity to your phone. In return, you save about $20 to $30 for the gateway, but then you can’t operate the computer while on the go or on vacation. The gateway can, in principle, be purchased later, converting the Bluetooth computer into a fully-fledged Wi-Fi computer.

Comparison table of all RainPoint WiFi irrigation timers

Below, I’ve compiled an overview of the currently available RainPoint WiFi irrigation timers to bring some order and clarity to the product range. I won’t specifically cover Bluetooth-only versions without a gateway. I won’t even cover slightly different versions that differ only in the thread material or a slightly different gateway; I’ll list those under “Variants.”

Also included here is the very important information about which app (RainPoint Tuya, RainPoint Home, or HomGar) the timer works with.

RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer, Smart Hose Timer for Garden Hose, WiFi Irrigation Controller, Smart Sprinkler System Valve, APP & Voice Control, Weather-Based Automatic Rain Delay, Brass Inlet & Outlet Timer with WiFi Hub
RAINPOINT WiFi Hose Timer, Smart Water Timer for Garden, Drip Irrigation Controller System with Wi-Fi Hub Automatic Manual Watering, Alexa APP Voice Control
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer, Brass Inlet Smart Hose Faucet Timer, Automatic Irrigation System Controller for Yard Watering, APP Control via 2.4Ghz WiFi and Bluetooth (V2, 2025 Release)
RAINPOINT 1-Zone Wireless Smart Water Timer for Garden Hose with Hub Outdoor Sprinkler Irrigation Rain Delay, APP Remote Control WiFi Valve for Faucet Automatic Schedules Lawn,Backyard,Pool
RAINPOINT 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Timer for Garden Hose - Smart WiFi Water Timer with Irrigation Display Gateway Hub - Wireless Smart Watering System with Dual Zone Garden Watering
Computer
RainPoint with 1 output (TTV103WRF)
RainPoint with 2 outputs (TTV203WRF)
RainPoint with 1 output (TTV102B)
RainPoint with 1 output (HTV113FRF)
RainPoint with 2 outputs (HTV213FRF)
Zones
1
2
1
1
2
Which App
RainPoint Tuya
RainPoint Tuya
RainPoint Tuya
HomGar
HomGar
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available for an additional charge of approximately $15 to $25 with brass threads instead of plastic threads at the inlet or at the inlet and outlet.
Optionally available for an additional charge of approximately $15 to $25 with brass threads instead of plastic threads at the inlet or at the inlet and outlet.
Price
$71.99
$86.99
Price not available
$62.99
$84.95
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer, Smart Hose Timer for Garden Hose, WiFi Irrigation Controller, Smart Sprinkler System Valve, APP & Voice Control, Weather-Based Automatic Rain Delay, Brass Inlet & Outlet Timer with WiFi Hub
Computer
RainPoint with 1 output (TTV103WRF)
Zones
1
Which App
RainPoint Tuya
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available for an additional charge of approximately $15 to $25 with brass threads instead of plastic threads at the inlet or at the inlet and outlet.
Price
$71.99
RAINPOINT WiFi Hose Timer, Smart Water Timer for Garden, Drip Irrigation Controller System with Wi-Fi Hub Automatic Manual Watering, Alexa APP Voice Control
Computer
RainPoint with 2 outputs (TTV203WRF)
Zones
2
Which App
RainPoint Tuya
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available for an additional charge of approximately $15 to $25 with brass threads instead of plastic threads at the inlet or at the inlet and outlet.
Price
$86.99
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer, Brass Inlet Smart Hose Faucet Timer, Automatic Irrigation System Controller for Yard Watering, APP Control via 2.4Ghz WiFi and Bluetooth (V2, 2025 Release)
Computer
RainPoint with 1 output (TTV102B)
Zones
1
Which App
RainPoint Tuya
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Price
Price not available
RAINPOINT 1-Zone Wireless Smart Water Timer for Garden Hose with Hub Outdoor Sprinkler Irrigation Rain Delay, APP Remote Control WiFi Valve for Faucet Automatic Schedules Lawn,Backyard,Pool
Computer
RainPoint with 1 output (HTV113FRF)
Zones
1
Which App
HomGar
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Price
$62.99
RAINPOINT 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Timer for Garden Hose - Smart WiFi Water Timer with Irrigation Display Gateway Hub - Wireless Smart Watering System with Dual Zone Garden Watering
Computer
RainPoint with 2 outputs (HTV213FRF)
Zones
2
Which App
HomGar
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Price
$84.95
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose, WiFi Sprinkler Controller, Smart Hose Timer Valve, Automatic Drip Irrigation System/Rain Delay for Garden/Lawn/Yard (Brass Inlet, WiFi Gateway) Green Timer with WiFi Hub
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose, 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Controller, Smart Hose Timer Valve, Automatic Drip Irrigation System/Rain Delay for Garden/Lawn/Yard (Brass Inlet, WiFi Gateway)
RAINPOINT WiFi Hose Timer, Brass Inlet Smart Sprinkler Timer for Watering, WiFi Watering Timer for Garden Hose with Hub, APP & Voice Control, Automatic Irrigation System for Lawns and Yard Water Timer with WiFi Hub
RainPoint WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose with Brass Inlet, 2-Zone Smart Hose Timer, WiFi Irrigation Controller, Automatic Sprinkler Watering System for Lawns and Yard Green Metal
RAINPOINT WiFi Sprinkler Timer 4 Zone, Outdoor Smart Water Timer for Garden Hose with Brass Inlet
Computer
RainPoint with 1 output and improved gateway (HTV145FRF)
RainPoint with 2 outputs and improved gateway (HTV245FRF)
RainPoint with 1 output and normal gateway (HTV107B)
RainPoint with 2 outputs and standard gateway (HTV210B)
RainPoint with 4 outputs and improved gateway (HTV405FRF)
Zones
1
2
1
2
4
Which App
RainPoint Home
RainPoint Home
RainPoint Home
RainPoint Home
RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available with a gateway with additional Ethernet input for an additional $10 (HWG040)
Optionally available with a gateway with additional Ethernet input for an additional $10 (HWG040)
Optionally available with a gateway with additional Ethernet input for an additional $10 (HWG040)
Special feature
Improved radio reception, brass input thread
Improved radio reception, brass input thread
Brass input thread
Brass input thread
Improved radio reception, brass input thread
Price
$65.99
Price not available
$64.99
$89.99
Price not available
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose, WiFi Sprinkler Controller, Smart Hose Timer Valve, Automatic Drip Irrigation System/Rain Delay for Garden/Lawn/Yard (Brass Inlet, WiFi Gateway) Green Timer with WiFi Hub
Computer
RainPoint with 1 output and improved gateway (HTV145FRF)
Zones
1
Which App
RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available with a gateway with additional Ethernet input for an additional $10 (HWG040)
Special feature
Improved radio reception, brass input thread
Price
$65.99
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose, 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Controller, Smart Hose Timer Valve, Automatic Drip Irrigation System/Rain Delay for Garden/Lawn/Yard (Brass Inlet, WiFi Gateway)
Computer
RainPoint with 2 outputs and improved gateway (HTV245FRF)
Zones
2
Which App
RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available with a gateway with additional Ethernet input for an additional $10 (HWG040)
Special feature
Improved radio reception, brass input thread
Price
Price not available
RAINPOINT WiFi Hose Timer, Brass Inlet Smart Sprinkler Timer for Watering, WiFi Watering Timer for Garden Hose with Hub, APP & Voice Control, Automatic Irrigation System for Lawns and Yard Water Timer with WiFi Hub
Computer
RainPoint with 1 output and normal gateway (HTV107B)
Zones
1
Which App
RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Special feature
Brass input thread
Price
$64.99
RainPoint WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose with Brass Inlet, 2-Zone Smart Hose Timer, WiFi Irrigation Controller, Automatic Sprinkler Watering System for Lawns and Yard Green Metal
Computer
RainPoint with 2 outputs and standard gateway (HTV210B)
Zones
2
Which App
RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Special feature
Brass input thread
Price
$89.99
RAINPOINT WiFi Sprinkler Timer 4 Zone, Outdoor Smart Water Timer for Garden Hose with Brass Inlet
Computer
RainPoint with 4 outputs and improved gateway (HTV405FRF)
Zones
4
Which App
RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available with a gateway with additional Ethernet input for an additional $10 (HWG040)
Special feature
Improved radio reception, brass input thread
Price
Price not available

Tested RainPoint Computers

I tested two RainPoint irrigation computers with Wi-Fi connectivity and two outputs each. The orange TTV203WRF, which is controlled with the RainPoint Tuya software, and the white HTV213FRF, which can be controlled with both the HomGar software and the RainPoint Home software.

In terms of appearance, the more modern-looking white HTV213FRF probably wins, but in practice, this plays a very minor role and therefore shouldn’t be the deciding factor.

RainPoint TTV203WRF Product Scope

The orange RainPoint computer with two outputs included the following:

Package contents

These include:

  • Irrigation computer
  • Gateway (hub)
  • Operating instructions
  • Installation instructions
  • Teflon tape and replacement strainer
  • Information about the possible free warranty extension (to 5 years)
  • Reducer from 1 inch to 3/4 inch for connecting the inlet to 3/4 inch faucets (already pre-assembled)

RainPoint HTV213FRF Product Contents

The package contents of the white RainPoint computer look very similar:

Package contents

These are basically the same things as with the previous computer, except that the instruction manual is divided into several languages, and instead of a replacement strainer, a second mini roll of Teflon tape was included:

  • Irrigation Computer
  • Gateway (Hub)
  • Instruction Manuals
  • Installation Instructions
  • 2 rolls of Teflon tape
  • Note on the possible free warranty extension (to 5 years)
  • Reducer from 1 inch to 3/4 inch for connecting the inlet to 3/4 inch faucets (already pre-assembled)

Comment: The addition of the small rolls of Teflon tape is a nice touch. However, the more important tap connectors for connecting something to the irrigation computer outputs are missing. These were included with all other irrigation computers tested so far, except for RainPoint. Such tap connectors don’t cost much to purchase later ($2 to $3 each), but it can be annoying if you want to get started after the irrigation computer arrives and then realize that this essential connection part is missing. Tip: When purchasing later, do not buy 1/2 inch but 3/4 inch tap connectors to avoid unnecessary pressure loss at the computer outlet!

Warranty Extension

A special feature is the free warranty extension from 2 to 5 years offered by RainPoint. All you need to do is send an email with the order number to the address on the enclosed card, and you will receive confirmation of the warranty extension by email from RainPoint. However, I can’t say how valuable this warranty is in the event of a claim, as I have no experience with this.

One detail: After applying for the warranty extension, RainPoint contacted me with a standard email encouraging me to write a review of the product on Amazon. By submitting a screenshot of the review, I could choose from four gifts worth approximately $15 each (50 feet (15 meters) of garden hose, water pH meter, etc.). In my opinion, rewarding user reviews in this way, even if they don’t explicitly request a positive review, is dubious and dishonest, and should be sanctioned by Amazon! This makes it increasingly difficult to rely on Amazon reviews when a large proportion of the reviews were accompanied by rewards.

Installing the RainPoint Computers

The installation works essentially the same for both computers, with one key difference:

  • For the orange TTV203WRF, you need the RainPoint Tuya app.
  • For the white HTV213FRF, however, you need the HomGar or RainPoint Home app.

The individual installation steps are as follows:

Download the RainPoint Tuya, HomGar, or RainPoint Home app.

For Android phones, go to Google Play; for Apple phones, go to the App Store.

After downloading the app, you’ll need to register an online account. You then log in using the email address and password you provided. The app will then ask for permission to access your phone’s location data. This is necessary to display local weather data.

The next step is to add the gateway to the app. To do so, select the gateway model in the app, plug in the gateway, and press the button on the gateway to start pairing. The button will then light up, and the app will recognize the gateway after a short time.

Plugged in gateway

Next, connect the water computer to the gateway. To do this, click “Add Device” again and select the purchased water computer model. To begin pairing, insert the batteries into the computer (not included). During pairing, the water computer should be located in the immediate vicinity of the connected gateway.

4 AA batteries must be used

Installation comment: Pairing the devices with the app works smoothly and efficiently, as with most systems I’ve tested so far! I installed two devices this way. With the first one, everything went perfectly, but with the second one, the app refused to recognize the water computer even after several attempts. I then reset the computer to the default settings according to the manual, and it worked right away.

The water computer is now ready to go.

Hardware

At this point, I’ll take a closer look at the hardware itself.

Brief summary: The RainPoint irrigation timers don’t reach the quality of the top-of-the-line LinkTap, but they seem to be quite acceptably manufactured. No comparison to my tests of Chinese products a few years ago. The plastic used seems sturdy and not too thin, nothing wobbles, and the battery compartment opens and closes smoothly. So, the first impression is fine, but the true quality only becomes apparent after several seasons in which the timer has to withstand wind and weather.

Here are some pictures of the hardware:

There are two buttons on the front that can be used to manually turn the two outputs on and off.

The various RainPoint models with 2 outputs are structurally largely identical

Rear view. There are no additional connection options for sensors. The battery compartment is attached without screws. This still holds up well—at least for new devices.

View from above

The water inlets are a crucial part of an irrigation timer. Many manufacturers make them unnecessarily narrow. The water has to overcome this narrow passage, leading to unnecessary pressure loss. If you plan to use it in an irrigation system, this can have quite drastic consequences, causing the sprinklers to not reach their intended throw distances or, in extreme cases, not rise at all.

So I was curious to see how RainPoint handled this. You get a first impression by removing the thread reducer and the strainer underneath the inlet. This is rather negative; the inlet looks very narrow (it’s identical in the second model):

Through this narrow passage the water flows into the irrigation computer

I then took a closer look at this and conducted a bucket test to determine how this bottleneck affects the system in practice. I did this for the two RainPoint computers and, for comparison, for the LinktTap Q1. This also has a built-in water flow meter, so the computers are comparable. Note: A built-in water flow meter results in greater pressure loss than a computer without one.

Performance in the Bucket Test

I conducted the bucket test on an outdoor faucet. The bucket test determines the water output per hour with the faucet fully turned on. First, I tested it with the water flowing freely without the water timer installed. Result: 570 gallons (2,150 liters) per hour.

Then I tested it with the orange RainPoint TTV203WRF and the white RainPoint HTV213FRF. Result: The water output per hour drops equally sharply for both, from 570 to just 380 gallons (from 2,150 to 1,400 liters). This isn’t surprising, given that an irrigation timer is always a bottleneck that consumes pressure.

But how large is this pressure loss compared to other products? For comparison, I conducted the same test with the LinkTap Q1. Result: This one provides significantly less pressure loss, reaching 439 gallons (1,650 liters) per hour.

The water inlet in the RainPoint timers is therefore much narrower and results in a considerably greater pressure loss. This may be of secondary importance for some application scenarios, but when planning an irrigation system or replacing an old irrigation computer from another brand with a RainPoint computer, you should be aware of this to avoid any nasty surprises!

The different water pressures of the RainPoint and the LinkTap computer can be visually detected even without measuring.

Gateway

The quality of the gateway is primarily determined by the quality of the wireless connection between the gateway and the irrigation computer. RainPoint gateways use 2.4 GHz WiFi. Since the new green model series, RainPoint has offered two different types of gateways: those with and without an external antenna. The latter are said to have a slightly longer range and better wireless reception.

The two devices I tested came with a gateway without an external antenna. Instead, they each have an integrated power outlet. This is practical, as you don’t lose any power outlet space after plugging in the gateway, and you can also use this outlet as a smart outlet, meaning you can turn it on and off via the app and predefined rules. More on this in the app description!

Signal Quality Test

You can check the signal strength of the wireless signal in the app. I tested this for different distances between the gateway and the irrigation computer, with the gateway plugged into the socket inside the house and me walking away from the house with the irrigation computer outside. The signal strength is displayed in dBM (decibel milliwatts), with the closer the number is to zero, the higher the quality.

Distance Signal quality (dBm)
0 feet (immediately next to it) – 73 dBm (4 out of 4 indicator lines)
16 feet (5 meters) – 76 dBm (4 of 4)
32 feet (10 meters) – 82 dBm (1 of 4)
48 feet (15 meters) – 89 dBm (1 of 4)
96 feet (30 meters) – 99 dBm (1 of 4)
144 feet (45 meters) – 111 dBm (1 of 4)
160 feet (50 meters) No more radio reception!

Conclusion: At just under 160 feet (50 meters), the water timer was no longer reachable, but the signal quality deteriorated significantly at distances above 32 feet (10 meters). This should be more than sufficient for most residential applications, but it doesn’t come close to the wireless quality and range offered by, for example, LinkTap’s Zigbee devices.

Software/Programming

As described above, the orange RainPoint irrigation timers can only be operated with the RainPoint Tuya app, while the white ones can be operated with both the HomGar and RainPoint Home apps.

I will introduce these three apps in detail in the following posts:

Blog post: How the RainPoint Tuya app works
Blog post: How the HomGar app works
Blog post: How the RainPoint Home app works

Below is a table overview of the key software features:

RAINPOINT WiFi Hose Timer, Smart Water Timer for Garden, Drip Irrigation Controller System with Wi-Fi Hub Automatic Manual Watering, Alexa APP Voice Control
RAINPOINT 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Timer for Garden Hose - Smart WiFi Water Timer with Irrigation Display Gateway Hub - Wireless Smart Watering System with Dual Zone Garden Watering
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose, 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Controller, Smart Hose Timer Valve, Automatic Drip Irrigation System/Rain Delay for Garden/Lawn/Yard (Brass Inlet, WiFi Gateway)
Software system
RainPoint Tuya
HomGar
RainPoint Home
Which irrigation computers can it be used with?
All orange RainPoint models
All white RainPoint models
All green and white RainPoint models
App runs on
Apple iOS devices, Google Android devices
Apple iOS devices, Google Android devices
Apple iOS devices, Google Android devices
Accessible via web browser?
Setup wizard for initial setup?start circuit?
Type of programming
On a zone basis (max. 3 zone programs)
On a zone basis (max. 6 zone programs)
On a zone basis (max. 6 zone programs)
Start times
1
1
1
Watering duration
1 minute to 12 hours
1 minute to 12 hours
1 minute to 12 hours
Types of irrigation
Normal irrigation, mist irrigation, both adjustable by time or water quantity
Normal irrigation, mist irrigation, both adjustable by time or water quantity
Normal irrigation, mist irrigation, both adjustable by time or water quantity
Definition of irrigation templates?
Local access without an internet connection?
Give access to other users?
Assigning different user authorizations?
Additional functions for contractors?
Warning notifications?
Irrigation calendar?
Reports on irrigation, water consumption, weather, ...?
Connection of a flow meter?
A water flow meter is permanently integrated into the computer of all devices except RainPoint TTV102B!
A water flow meter is permanently integrated into the computer of all devices except RainPoint TTV102B!
A water flow meter is permanently integrated into the computer of all devices except RainPoint TTV102B!
RAINPOINT WiFi Hose Timer, Smart Water Timer for Garden, Drip Irrigation Controller System with Wi-Fi Hub Automatic Manual Watering, Alexa APP Voice Control
Software system
RainPoint Tuya
Which irrigation computers can it be used with?
All orange RainPoint models
App runs on
Apple iOS devices, Google Android devices
Accessible via web browser?
Setup wizard for initial setup?start circuit?
Type of programming
On a zone basis (max. 3 zone programs)
Start times
1
Watering duration
1 minute to 12 hours
Types of irrigation
Normal irrigation, mist irrigation, both adjustable by time or water quantity
Definition of irrigation templates?
Local access without an internet connection?
Give access to other users?
Assigning different user authorizations?
Additional functions for contractors?
Warning notifications?
Irrigation calendar?
Reports on irrigation, water consumption, weather, ...?
Connection of a flow meter?
A water flow meter is permanently integrated into the computer of all devices except RainPoint TTV102B!
RAINPOINT 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Timer for Garden Hose - Smart WiFi Water Timer with Irrigation Display Gateway Hub - Wireless Smart Watering System with Dual Zone Garden Watering
Software system
HomGar
Which irrigation computers can it be used with?
All white RainPoint models
App runs on
Apple iOS devices, Google Android devices
Accessible via web browser?
Setup wizard for initial setup?start circuit?
Type of programming
On a zone basis (max. 6 zone programs)
Start times
1
Watering duration
1 minute to 12 hours
Types of irrigation
Normal irrigation, mist irrigation, both adjustable by time or water quantity
Definition of irrigation templates?
Local access without an internet connection?
Give access to other users?
Assigning different user authorizations?
Additional functions for contractors?
Warning notifications?
Irrigation calendar?
Reports on irrigation, water consumption, weather, ...?
Connection of a flow meter?
A water flow meter is permanently integrated into the computer of all devices except RainPoint TTV102B!
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose, 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Controller, Smart Hose Timer Valve, Automatic Drip Irrigation System/Rain Delay for Garden/Lawn/Yard (Brass Inlet, WiFi Gateway)
Software system
RainPoint Home
Which irrigation computers can it be used with?
All green and white RainPoint models
App runs on
Apple iOS devices, Google Android devices
Accessible via web browser?
Setup wizard for initial setup?start circuit?
Type of programming
On a zone basis (max. 6 zone programs)
Start times
1
Watering duration
1 minute to 12 hours
Types of irrigation
Normal irrigation, mist irrigation, both adjustable by time or water quantity
Definition of irrigation templates?
Local access without an internet connection?
Give access to other users?
Assigning different user authorizations?
Additional functions for contractors?
Warning notifications?
Irrigation calendar?
Reports on irrigation, water consumption, weather, ...?
Connection of a flow meter?
A water flow meter is permanently integrated into the computer of all devices except RainPoint TTV102B!

Continuation

RAINPOINT WiFi Hose Timer, Smart Water Timer for Garden, Drip Irrigation Controller System with Wi-Fi Hub Automatic Manual Watering, Alexa APP Voice Control
RAINPOINT 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Timer for Garden Hose - Smart WiFi Water Timer with Irrigation Display Gateway Hub - Wireless Smart Watering System with Dual Zone Garden Watering
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose, 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Controller, Smart Hose Timer Valve, Automatic Drip Irrigation System/Rain Delay for Garden/Lawn/Yard (Brass Inlet, WiFi Gateway)
Which irrigation computers can it be used with?
All orange RainPoint models
All white RainPoint models
All green and white RainPoint models
Define irrigation triggers?
Rules can be defined regarding temperature, humidity, weather conditions, sunrise/sunset and wind speed that suspend irrigation runs
Rules can be defined regarding temperature, humidity, weather conditions, probability of precipitation and wind speed that suspend irrigation runs
Using local weather data?
Weather station selectable?
Updating weather data
No information on how often and when these are updated.
Weather data is only displayed
No information on how often and when these are updated.
Integration of your own weather station possible?
Seasonal adjustment definable per month?
Suspend watering x days?
Cycle and soak phases?
Lawn growth program?
Start watering run manually?
Define a sensor yourself?
Master valve usable?
Valve delays definable?
Voice control with
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
Ongoing costs?
None (Optional SMS notifications available for an additional charge)
RAINPOINT WiFi Hose Timer, Smart Water Timer for Garden, Drip Irrigation Controller System with Wi-Fi Hub Automatic Manual Watering, Alexa APP Voice Control
Which irrigation computers can it be used with?
All orange RainPoint models
Define irrigation triggers?
Rules can be defined regarding temperature, humidity, weather conditions, sunrise/sunset and wind speed that suspend irrigation runs
Using local weather data?
Weather station selectable?
Updating weather data
No information on how often and when these are updated.
Integration of your own weather station possible?
Seasonal adjustment definable per month?
Suspend watering x days?
Cycle and soak phases?
Lawn growth program?
Start watering run manually?
Define a sensor yourself?
Master valve usable?
Valve delays definable?
Voice control with
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
Ongoing costs?
None (Optional SMS notifications available for an additional charge)
RAINPOINT 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Timer for Garden Hose - Smart WiFi Water Timer with Irrigation Display Gateway Hub - Wireless Smart Watering System with Dual Zone Garden Watering
Which irrigation computers can it be used with?
All white RainPoint models
Define irrigation triggers?
Using local weather data?
Weather station selectable?
Updating weather data
Weather data is only displayed
Integration of your own weather station possible?
Seasonal adjustment definable per month?
Suspend watering x days?
Cycle and soak phases?
Lawn growth program?
Start watering run manually?
Define a sensor yourself?
Master valve usable?
Valve delays definable?
Voice control with
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
Ongoing costs?
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose, 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Controller, Smart Hose Timer Valve, Automatic Drip Irrigation System/Rain Delay for Garden/Lawn/Yard (Brass Inlet, WiFi Gateway)
Which irrigation computers can it be used with?
All green and white RainPoint models
Define irrigation triggers?
Rules can be defined regarding temperature, humidity, weather conditions, probability of precipitation and wind speed that suspend irrigation runs
Using local weather data?
Weather station selectable?
Updating weather data
No information on how often and when these are updated.
Integration of your own weather station possible?
Seasonal adjustment definable per month?
Suspend watering x days?
Cycle and soak phases?
Lawn growth program?
Start watering run manually?
Define a sensor yourself?
Master valve usable?
Valve delays definable?
Voice control with
Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
Ongoing costs?

Price and Purchase Source

The two models presented cost between $80 and $100, including the gateway, although the white computer was on sale for even less at the time of writing. The largest selection of RainPoint irrigation computers can be found on Amazon. Although the manufacturer also has its own website and shop, the products themselves are not offered for sale there, but rather links to Amazon offers.

The RainPoint computers are also available on eBay and in several other online shops. The white models are also offered directly from China via Temu and cost about $10 less there. However, you have to be careful to get the right ones, as the correct thread types of the models vary depending on your region of residence. In the USA, you need one for the USA, in the EU, one for the EU, and so on. These are not compatible with each other! Furthermore, you have to accept a shipping time of several weeks.

Conclusion and Recommendation

The currently available RainPoint irrigation controllers no longer have much in common with the Chinese products that failed my tests a few years ago. Both RainPoint products I tested are decent irrigation controllers at a very attractive price.

The hardware appears solid at first glance, but its durability and susceptibility to defects can only be assessed after extended use. The reviews on Amazon seem to me to be of limited reliability in this regard, as RainPoint, as described above, deliberately encourages (good) reviews.

The wireless connection is also fine and probably sufficient for most applications. If you have a very large distance between the gateway and the irrigation controller, you could alternatively consider the newer green RainPoint series with an additional antenna. Or, if you require very high wireless quality, you could simply switch to a LinkTap computer.

A major drawback is the suboptimal design of the RainPoint computers in terms of pressure loss. Due to the narrow inlet, RainPoint computers lose significantly more pressure than competing products. This can be a problem if, for example, you need a specific pressure in an irrigation system and the upstream irrigation computer prevents this pressure from reaching the sprinklers.

With regard to software, you have to be extremely careful to choose the right product, as not all models work with every software. This could potentially prevent you from using weather-controlled irrigation. RainPoint’s model policy is generally difficult for outsiders to understand and complicated to grasp. In my opinion, it would be desirable if RainPoint would focus on a few products and develop them further.

The RainPoint Tuya software for the orange model series is, in my opinion, a complete failure. No other irrigation computer I know of has such a complicated user interface and illogical navigation. Therefore, I would not recommend purchasing an orange RainPoint computer!

The HomGar software of the white models is significantly better in comparison, but unfortunately, the weather control option is completely missing. Alternatively, you can also use the white model series with the third RainPoint app, RainPoint Home. This is essentially the same as the HomGar software, but with additional weather control.

The white model series is therefore my test winner among the two products tested. This is currently the most affordable smart irrigation computer on the market. If the low price is your priority and the main focus of the purchase is the ability to control the computer while on the go, for example, while on vacation, then you can’t go wrong with the white model series! The new green RainPoint model series is virtually identical to the orange and white models, only with brass threads instead of plastic. The approximately $30 to $40 surcharge is really only worthwhile if you need the improved wireless connection.

RainPoint currently can’t compete with the best irrigation computers on the market. Especially when it comes to software, the gap to leading systems such as LinkTap, OpenSprinkler, or Hunter Hydrawise is large. But even with the slightly more expensive Orbit B-hyve computers, the RainPoint software can’t keep up.

RainPoint lacks numerous important features, such as seasonal adjustment or secure options should a valve fail to close properly, and its programming is very limited compared to competitors. And a very important point: The weather control is very limited compared to competitor products because the parameters you can refer to aren’t the most useful, and there’s no information about how these parameters were determined or to which time period they refer. This makes a sensible, well-functioning weather control system almost impossible to implement.

Der Beitrag RainPoint Wi-Fi irrigation computer tested: How good are the cheapest irrigation computers on the market? erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> Description of the functionality of the RainPoint Tuya app for RainPoint irrigation computers https://www.irrigation-guide.com/description-of-the-functionality-of-the-rainpoint-tuya-app-for-rainpoint-irrigation-computers.html Fri, 25 Jul 2025 13:49:16 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=3336 In this post, I describe the functionality of the RainPoint Tuya app for RainPoint water timers with web connectivity. RainPoint currently offers three different apps for its water timers, although not all RainPoint timers work with every app. I describe the two other RainPoint apps, HomGar and RainPoint Home, in the following two blog [...]

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]]>

In this post, I describe the functionality of the RainPoint Tuya app for RainPoint water timers with web connectivity. RainPoint currently offers three different apps for its water timers, although not all RainPoint timers work with every app. I describe the two other RainPoint apps, HomGar and RainPoint Home, in the following two blog posts:

Blog post: How the HomGar app works
Blog post: How the RainPoint Home app works

All RainPoint TTV water timer models can be controlled with the RainPoint Tuya app. These are the orange models and the white TTV102B water timer. The app works the same for all of these models, although the TTV102B water timer does not include a water flow sensor and therefore does not have the associated functionality.

In this post, I describe the individual features in detail and conclude by discussing how the RainPoint app compares to the two other RainPoint apps and to competitor water timer apps.

Product overview of RainPoint models with the RainPoint Tuya app

Before, an overview of all RainPoint models that use the RainPoint Tuya software presented here. The screenshots shown were taken using a TTV203WRF with two outputs; however, the models with one output essentially have the same functionality, except that, logically, only one output can be programmed.

RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer, Smart Hose Timer WiFi Irrigation Controller, Wireless Watering System Valve, APP & Voice Control, Weather-Based Automatic Rain Delay, Brass Inlet Brass Single Zone Timer
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer with Brass Inlet & Outlet，2 Zone WiFi Hose Timer for Lawn,WiFi Sprinkler Controller via APP/Voice Control,Automatic Watering System by Time/Weather/Quantity/Soil Moisture 2 Zone Timer Brass Outlet
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer, Brass Inlet Smart Hose Faucet Timer, Automatic Irrigation System Controller for Yard Watering, APP Control via 2.4Ghz WiFi and Bluetooth (V2, 2025 Release)
Computer
RainPoint TTV103WRF with 1 output
RainPoint TTV203WRF with 2 outputs
RainPoint TTV102B water meter with 1 output
Zones
1
2
1
Which App
RainPoint Tuya
RainPoint Tuya
RainPoint Tuya
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
3 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available for an additional charge of approximately $15 to $25 with brass threads instead of plastic threads at the inlet or at the inlet and outlet.
Optionally available for an additional charge of approximately $15 to $25 with brass threads instead of plastic threads at the inlet or at the inlet and outlet.
Price
$63.49
$96.99
Price not available
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer, Smart Hose Timer WiFi Irrigation Controller, Wireless Watering System Valve, APP & Voice Control, Weather-Based Automatic Rain Delay, Brass Inlet Brass Single Zone Timer
Computer
RainPoint TTV103WRF with 1 output
Zones
1
Which App
RainPoint Tuya
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available for an additional charge of approximately $15 to $25 with brass threads instead of plastic threads at the inlet or at the inlet and outlet.
Price
$63.49
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer with Brass Inlet & Outlet，2 Zone WiFi Hose Timer for Lawn,WiFi Sprinkler Controller via APP/Voice Control,Automatic Watering System by Time/Weather/Quantity/Soil Moisture 2 Zone Timer Brass Outlet
Computer
RainPoint TTV203WRF with 2 outputs
Zones
2
Which App
RainPoint Tuya
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available for an additional charge of approximately $15 to $25 with brass threads instead of plastic threads at the inlet or at the inlet and outlet.
Price
$96.99
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer, Brass Inlet Smart Hose Faucet Timer, Automatic Irrigation System Controller for Yard Watering, APP Control via 2.4Ghz WiFi and Bluetooth (V2, 2025 Release)
Computer
RainPoint TTV102B water meter with 1 output
Zones
1
Which App
RainPoint Tuya
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
3 AA batteries
Variants
Price
Price not available

Main Menu/Navigation

When you start the app, the following overview is displayed, from which you can navigate to the individual functions:

This view appears quite clear at first glance. It contains the following key areas:

  • Current Weather
  • Overview of the connected devices
  • Main Menu

In the following screenshot, I have visually highlighted the three areas:

The first area displays the weather for the selected location. The data displayed here is also used for control via weather data, and you can, of course, also use it manually as a basis for a manual irrigation pause. In addition to the displayed values, you can also display the wind speed by clicking on this area. However, only the current weather is displayed, not forecasts or historical values.

The second area shows which smart devices are currently stored in the software. In my case, this is the irrigation computer and the associated hub (gateway). The socket included in the hub is also displayed separately. If you were using the additional soil moisture sensor, it would also be displayed here.

The third section is the actual main menu with three menu items, which always automatically starts with “Home.”

Setting options for the irrigation computer

In the first part, I’ll show you the setting options available after clicking on the irrigation computer. You’ll be taken to a dedicated irrigation computer homepage, which in turn contains its own menu:

Here you can see an overview of the most recent and next scheduled watering cycles, as well as a separate menu with the following items:

  • Parameter (this is the irrigation computer start screen just shown)
  • Manual
  • Plan
  • Sensor
  • My

I’ll describe these items below.

The option to switch directly from degrees Celsius to Fahrenheit in the menu is rather unnecessary. However, this system runs through the entire app. Settings like these, which you either never or very rarely need, belong in the basic settings and not directly in the functions. This only makes the display confusing.

Manually start an irrigation run

This function is very simple: You set the duration in a circle (up to 60 minutes is possible), and clicking the play icon starts manual watering. Clicking it again allows you to stop it early. In my case, the water computer has two outputs, so the cycle can be started separately for Zone 1 and Zone 2.

Setting up an irrigation program

This is done in the Plan menu and at this point you will first see a program overview:

In this screenshot, no irrigation program has been created yet. To add one, click on Plan A, B, or C. The following options will open:

There are essentially four options here:

  • A regular irrigation schedule that waters at a specific start time on specific days for a specific duration.
  • The same, but without a specified duration. Instead, a specific number of gallons is defined to be watered.
  • A cooling misting schedule for a specific duration on specific days (cooling misting = short spray irrigation intervals interspersed with breaks).
  • The same, but with a specific, specified amount of water.

The mist mode can be used for the typical cooling mist found in some coffee house gardens.

In addition to the start time, the three values of misting time, mist time, and interval must be defined. The misting time determines the length of time the cooling mist program should run; up to 12 hours is possible. The mist time determines how long the cooling mist should be generated continuously; up to 59 seconds is possible. And the interval defines how long to wait after a cooling mist is generated until the next cooling mist is generated. A maximum of 16 minutes is possible here.

A cycle and soak function, as known from other irrigation timers, which allows you to divide irrigation runs into multiple intervals to give the precipitation time to seep in, cannot be implemented with this option. The definable values are too narrow for this; an irrigation phase of a maximum of 59 seconds makes no sense for a typical application.

A plan overview with three created programs would then look like this, for example. The days on which the programs run are marked here with dots in the program color, the key data for the programs is listed and the green activated control indicates that the program is active.

Note: A limit of three programs is already very limited! Especially since these programs are relatively inflexible! Within a program, it’s not possible, for example, to set different start times or run times for different days of the week. Instead, you can only run the same program in the same way every day. And with only one start time per program! This is very limited compared to the competition and significantly limits your program design!

Rain Delay

In the schedule settings, you can also set a 24, 48, or 72-hour irrigation pause. This applies to all programs; it is not possible to set a separate time for each program.

Sensor

Under the “Sensor” menu item, you can activate an optionally available soil moisture sensor and view the soil moisture sensor’s measured values. Optionally, you can switch to water flow to see the amount of water applied.

With the sensor activated, you also have additional options in the automation area (“Scene”) described below.

My

The last menu item in the irrigation computer menu doesn’t offer much insight at first glance: “Instruction” redirects you to product information on the RainPoint website, and “Contact us” redirects you to contact information on the RainPoint website. Both, however, are sloppily redirected to the Chinese language version, so you first have to find the correct language switch to get anything done.

You can access the essential settings by clicking on the pencil symbol in the top right corner:

And in this way calls up the following irrigation computer settings:

The following functions can be found here:

Connect with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant

It’s also possible to control the watering computer via voice control using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. However, don’t expect miracles, as this is limited to the most essential functions. The connection itself is established via the Alexa or Google Assistant app. Detailed instructions on how to do this can be found under “Device Info.”

Device Information

Here you will only find a virtual ID of the device, which may be helpful in case of complaints or troubleshooting.

Automation

This button leads to the same automation options available in the Scene menu. Since I’ll describe these in detail below, and the Scene menu will usually be the place from which you access them, I won’t go into them further here.

Group devices

This can be useful if you have multiple devices stored in the app so that you can operate them all in a single step. However, in my example, with only one watering computer, this isn’t possible.

Give other people access

To grant another person access to the irrigation computer, they must first be added as a home member. This is done via an invitation in the global settings, see below.

Only after the person has accepted this invitation, also registered with RainPoint Tuya, and is added as a member of the home can they be granted access to the irrigation computer. To do this, simply enter the person’s account name and the name as it should appear in the app:

Automatic notifications

Automatic notifications can be activated for four events:

  • Low battery level
  • Irrigation has stopped
  • Irrigation has started
  • Leakage alarm

Unfortunately, there is no further information on how it works, which would be particularly relevant for the leakage alarm, which is supposed to notify you if the water computer doesn’t close properly.

Oddly, the software displays six different notification events instead of just four. Some of them are again poorly translated. This unfortunately confirms the very sloppy overall impression of the app.

This activation/deactivation of notifications can be done independently for the app’s internal notification center, for push notifications on your mobile phone, and for SMS notifications. Unfortunately, SMS notifications are only available for an additional fee. Notification packages are offered within the app; for example, 200 SMS messages cost $12.99.

The real drawback: There is no notification option via email, which is usually standard in competitors’ apps!

Further automation of irrigation

“Further” because irrigation is already essentially automated with the system as an irrigation program. However, the “Scene” menu item also offers the option of making this automation dependent on additional conditions.

The automation menu appears to have been taken from the Tuya software, which is a very powerful, comprehensive automation software. This theoretically offers a multitude of possibilities, including in conjunction with other Thuya devices. However, this only works if these other devices are also stored in the app. Unfortunately, this multitude of theoretical possibilities makes the menu very confusing and unnecessarily complex for pure irrigation computer users who are not interested in comprehensive automation solutions.

In terms of irrigation computer control, the weather control option is almost exclusively of interest. To use this, click on the plus symbol in the menu and then select the sub-item “When the weather changes.” You will then be asked which type of weather change should be taken into account:

By selecting “Temperature,” you can define events based on the measured temperature (exceeding or falling below a certain temperature value). By selecting “Humidity,” you can define events based on the measured humidity (“Dry,” “Comfortable,” or “Humid”). By selecting “Weather,” you can define events based on the general weather situation (“Sunny,” “Cloudy,” “Rainy,” “Snowy,” or “Hazy”). By selecting “Wind Speed,” you can define events based on the measured wind speed (exceeding or falling below a certain value). By selecting “Sunset/Sunrise,” you can define events based on sunrise or sunset.

Once you have defined the condition—in this example, that the weather is rainy—you specify what should happen when the condition is met. To do this, click the plus symbol next to “Then”:

Now you can select the type of task you want to perform. For the average user, the “Control single device” option is particularly relevant, along with the “Send notification” option. The first option allows you to control the watering computer depending on the “If” condition; the second option allows you to receive a notification when the condition is met (either only in the app or via SMS, though SMS is only available for an additional fee). Below, I’ll show you the “Control single device” option:

Selecting the device is trivial here, as there are hardly any options available. Actually, only the water computer itself is available, and theoretically, after selecting “Wifi Socket,” you could also turn the socket on the hub on or off in this way.

In this example, I select the water computer and am then given the option to choose from four control options:

  • Left Valve – Turns the left output of the computer on or off.
  • Left Valve: Watering Delay – Activates a 24, 48, or 72-hour watering pause for the left output of the computer.
  • Right Valve – Turns the right output of the computer on or off.
  • Right Valve: Watering Delay – Activates a 24, 48, or 72-hour watering pause for the right output.

Under the “Precondition” heading, you could now define additional conditions that must be met for the task to be executed. For example, you could specify that a certain weather situation must coincide with a certain temperature for watering to be stopped or postponed.

You can also specify that the condition is only checked at specific times; by default, it is checked throughout the day.

A created scene would then look like this. In my example, one scene was defined for temperature (watering should not occur if the temperature is below 41 degrees Fahrenheit) and one for rain (watering should be paused for 24 hours during rainy weather).

Global Settings

The global settings can be found in the “Me” menu item on the home page:

Unfortunately, this is unnecessarily confusing, so it takes a while to get an overview of the possible settings. You can do the following essential things here:

Give another person access to your home control system

This is a prerequisite for this person to also have access to the irrigation computer (as described above). To do this, select “Home Management” and then “My Home.” Under the “Add Member” link, you can invite the desired person via email, WhatsApp, SMS, etc. They will then receive a message with a code that must be entered into the app.

Notification History

Under “Message Center” you can track the notifications you have already received.

The actual global settings are well hidden behind the gear icon in the top right:

After clicking on it, you will come to the following menu, which contains the actual setting options:

The most important functions are described below.

Personal Information, Account and Security

Here you can enter a profile picture and name, as well as change your email address and login password.

Changing the Language and Temperature Unit

RainPoint is inconsistent here. Some of the units used in the app can be changed directly on the display, as described above. However, this does not apply to the temperature unit and the language; these can be changed here in the basic settings if necessary.

Notification Settings

Here you’ll find the important setting for receiving alerts not only as push notifications on your phone, but also via SMS to a specified phone number. As already mentioned, this unfortunately requires the purchase of paid SMS packages; email notifications are not available.

Privacy Settings

Here, you can specify which phone functions the app should have access to (e.g., location, camera, microphone), and the extent to which the app can collect data and suggest personalized products.

Interfaces

As mentioned above, integration with the Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa voice control systems is possible. Interaction with other products that use the Tuya standard is also possible, which could be particularly interesting if you want to integrate the irrigation computer into a more comprehensive smart home solution.

Conclusion and Recommendation

My impression of the RainPoint Tuya app is very mixed. The whole thing is theoretically quite powerful and might appeal to some smart home enthusiasts with a Tuya preference. However, if you’re simply looking for a standalone solution for a smart irrigation computer, you’ll have to unnecessarily struggle through the complexity of the software, which is also very illogical in places. Probably the most cluttered irrigation computer app I’ve tested so far; it takes some time to get used to it.

On the positive side, there’s the option for (limited) weather control. This distinguishes RainPoint Tuya from the second RainPoint app, HomGar, which doesn’t offer any weather control. Depending on the general weather conditions, temperature, humidity, and wind speed, you can pause or postpone irrigation. You can also receive notifications when a specific weather event occurs.

Unfortunately, the events are only so broadly defined that the weather control can only be influenced to a very limited extent. Instead of being able to adjust the irrigation program specifically based on a certain amount of rainfall in the past x hours or the next x hours, as with competing products, RainPoint Tuya can only refer to a general “rainy weather situation.” This is very poor and of limited use.

The lack of email alert notifications is also a major drawback. The same goes for the very limited options for setting up irrigation programs.

The RainPoint Tuya app is an alternative to RainPoint’s HomGar app if the (very limited) weather control or integration into the Tuya universe is very important to you. If you’re primarily looking for a simple remote control option for your irrigation computer so you can operate it while on vacation or on the go, then you’re better off choosing HomGar, which is a much more logical, clearer, and better-designed app. The third alternative from the RainPoint range also includes weather control (even slightly expanded), but is based on HomGar in terms of navigation, so RainPoint Home is currently the best of the RainPoint apps for me.

Compared to the apps of its best competitors, Hunter Hydrawise, LinkTap, and OpenSprinkler, all three RainPoint apps fall significantly short. These are simply much more sophisticated and offer much more functionality. So, if you value a truly sensible and well-functioning weather-dependent controller or things like automatic seasonal adjustment, proper monitoring of the computer for leaks, etc., then it’s better to research competitor products further! They cost more, but also offer significantly more!

Orbit B-hyve is also an alternative in the very affordable range. It’s only slightly more expensive than RainPoint, but has significantly more comprehensive and better software.

I don’t recommend the smart Gardena or Rain Bird computers as alternatives. These are significantly more expensive, but have very limited software that can’t keep up with the best products mentioned above. In that case, it’s better to go for the affordable RainPoint!

Der Beitrag Description of the functionality of the RainPoint Tuya app for RainPoint irrigation computers erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> Description of the functionality of the RainPoint Home App https://www.irrigation-guide.com/description-of-the-functionality-of-the-rainpoint-home-app.html Fri, 25 Jul 2025 13:48:15 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=3294 In this post, I describe the features of the RainPoint Home app for Wi-Fi RainPoint irrigation timers. This is the newest of the three RainPoint apps. In addition to RainPoint Home, there are also RainPoint Tuya and HomGar, although each of these apps only works with certain RainPoint models! RainPoint Home is essentially a [...]

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In this post, I describe the features of the RainPoint Home app for Wi-Fi RainPoint irrigation timers. This is the newest of the three RainPoint apps. In addition to RainPoint Home, there are also RainPoint Tuya and HomGar, although each of these apps only works with certain RainPoint models!

RainPoint Home is essentially a mix of the other two RainPoint apps with a few additional features. It is based on the basic framework of the comparatively clear and user-friendly HomGar app. When you first open the program, you might think you’ve accidentally opened the HomGar app, as the appearance and navigation of the two apps are so similar. Additionally, however, the automation functionality from the RainPoint Tuya app has been integrated, allowing you to control irrigation based on weather events.

In this post, I describe in detail the functionality of the RainPaint Home app. You can read about the functionality of the two other RainPoint apps in the following two articles:

Blog post: How the RainPoint Tuya App works
Blog post: How the HomGar App works

In the following post, I will describe all the app’s features in detail and then compare them with the other two RainPoint apps and, above all, with the smart apps of competitors, and explain how RainPoint Home compares.

RainPoint Product Overview

To begin with, an overview of the RainPoint models that can be controlled with the RainPoint Home app. These include all the new bright green models and the two white models.

RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose, WiFi Sprinkler Controller, Smart Hose Timer Valve, Automatic Drip Irrigation System/Rain Delay for Garden/Lawn/Yard (Brass Inlet, WiFi Gateway) Green Timer with WiFi Hub
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose, 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Controller, Smart Hose Timer Valve, Automatic Drip Irrigation System/Rain Delay for Garden/Lawn/Yard (Brass Inlet, WiFi Gateway)
RAINPOINT WiFi Hose Timer, Brass Inlet Smart Sprinkler Timer for Watering, WiFi Watering Timer for Garden Hose with Hub, APP & Voice Control, Automatic Irrigation System for Lawns and Yard Water Timer with WiFi Hub
Computer
RainPoint with 1 output and improved gateway (HTV145FRF)
RainPoint with 2 outputs and improved gateway (HTV245FRF)
RainPoint with 1 output and normal gateway (HTV107B)
Zones
1
2
1
Which App
RainPoint Home
RainPoint Home
RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available with a gateway with additional Ethernet input for an additional $10 (HWG040)
Optionally available with a gateway with additional Ethernet input for an additional $10 (HWG040)
Special feature
Improved radio reception, brass input thread
Improved radio reception, brass input thread
Brass input thread
Price
$65.99
Price not available
$64.99
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose, WiFi Sprinkler Controller, Smart Hose Timer Valve, Automatic Drip Irrigation System/Rain Delay for Garden/Lawn/Yard (Brass Inlet, WiFi Gateway) Green Timer with WiFi Hub
Computer
RainPoint with 1 output and improved gateway (HTV145FRF)
Zones
1
Which App
RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available with a gateway with additional Ethernet input for an additional $10 (HWG040)
Special feature
Improved radio reception, brass input thread
Price
$65.99
RAINPOINT WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose, 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Controller, Smart Hose Timer Valve, Automatic Drip Irrigation System/Rain Delay for Garden/Lawn/Yard (Brass Inlet, WiFi Gateway)
Computer
RainPoint with 2 outputs and improved gateway (HTV245FRF)
Zones
2
Which App
RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available with a gateway with additional Ethernet input for an additional $10 (HWG040)
Special feature
Improved radio reception, brass input thread
Price
Price not available
RAINPOINT WiFi Hose Timer, Brass Inlet Smart Sprinkler Timer for Watering, WiFi Watering Timer for Garden Hose with Hub, APP & Voice Control, Automatic Irrigation System for Lawns and Yard Water Timer with WiFi Hub
Computer
RainPoint with 1 output and normal gateway (HTV107B)
Zones
1
Which App
RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Special feature
Brass input thread
Price
$64.99
RainPoint WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose with Brass Inlet, 2-Zone Smart Hose Timer, WiFi Irrigation Controller, Automatic Sprinkler Watering System for Lawns and Yard Green Metal
RAINPOINT 1-Zone Wireless Smart Water Timer for Garden Hose with Hub Outdoor Sprinkler Irrigation Rain Delay, APP Remote Control WiFi Valve for Faucet Automatic Schedules Lawn,Backyard,Pool
RAINPOINT 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Timer for Garden Hose - Smart WiFi Water Timer with Irrigation Display Gateway Hub - Wireless Smart Watering System with Dual Zone Garden Watering
RAINPOINT WiFi Sprinkler Timer 4 Zone, Outdoor Smart Water Timer for Garden Hose with Brass Inlet
Computer
RainPoint with 2 outputs and standard gateway (HTV210B)
RainPoint with 1 output (HTV113FRF)
RainPoint with 2 outputs (HTV213FRF)
RainPoint with 4 outputs and improved gateway (HTV405FRF)
Zones
2
1
2
4
Which App
RainPoint Home
HomGar, RainPoint Home
HomGar, RainPoint Home
RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available with a gateway with additional Ethernet input for an additional $10 (HWG040)
Special feature
Brass input thread
-
-
Improved radio reception, brass input thread
Price
$89.99
$62.99
$84.95
Price not available
RainPoint WiFi Water Timer for Garden Hose with Brass Inlet, 2-Zone Smart Hose Timer, WiFi Irrigation Controller, Automatic Sprinkler Watering System for Lawns and Yard Green Metal
Computer
RainPoint with 2 outputs and standard gateway (HTV210B)
Zones
2
Which App
RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Special feature
Brass input thread
Price
$89.99
RAINPOINT 1-Zone Wireless Smart Water Timer for Garden Hose with Hub Outdoor Sprinkler Irrigation Rain Delay, APP Remote Control WiFi Valve for Faucet Automatic Schedules Lawn,Backyard,Pool
Computer
RainPoint with 1 output (HTV113FRF)
Zones
1
Which App
HomGar, RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Special feature
-
Price
$62.99
RAINPOINT 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Timer for Garden Hose - Smart WiFi Water Timer with Irrigation Display Gateway Hub - Wireless Smart Watering System with Dual Zone Garden Watering
Computer
RainPoint with 2 outputs (HTV213FRF)
Zones
2
Which App
HomGar, RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Special feature
-
Price
$84.95
RAINPOINT WiFi Sprinkler Timer 4 Zone, Outdoor Smart Water Timer for Garden Hose with Brass Inlet
Computer
RainPoint with 4 outputs and improved gateway (HTV405FRF)
Zones
4
Which App
RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Optionally available with a gateway with additional Ethernet input for an additional $10 (HWG040)
Special feature
Improved radio reception, brass input thread
Price
Price not available

Main Menu/Navigation

When you start the app, you’re always taken to the home page. This doesn’t really contain much information, just the devices stored in the app (marked with 1 below) and the main menu (marked with 2). For a home page, this is quite sparse in terms of information, presumably reflecting RainPoint’s intention to use the app for a variety of devices, not just the irrigation computer. Then a few more devices might be listed here, whose submenus you can access by clicking on them.

The second device displayed next to the irrigation computer is the gateway, including the additional power outlet it contains.

From the start menu, you now have two options:

  • Click on one of the devices to open the irrigation computer menu or the gateway menu.
  • Continue navigating in the menu below.

In this post, I will first show the functionality of the irrigation computer menu and gateway menu, followed by the menu bar.

Irrigation computer settings

You can access these, as previously described, by clicking on the irrigation computer on the home page.

This displays the water consumption of the last irrigation run. This display alternates with the date and time of the next irrigation run. If you have a computer with multiple outlets, you can switch between the different outlets (zones).

From the home page, you have two navigation options:

  1. Access the irrigation computer settings by clicking on the gear icon in the top right corner.
  2. Access one of the four items in the irrigation computer menu.

Create an irrigation program

After clicking on this menu item, you will first see a blank page:

By clicking on the plus symbol in the top right, you can create your first watering program. You can choose between two types of programs:

  • Normal Irrigation
  • Interval Irrigation

Creating a Regular Watering Program

To do this, enter the following four parameters:

  • Start time for the watering program to begin
  • Duration of the watering program or alternatively
  • Number of gallons to be watered
    Repeat frequency of the watering program (possible daily, on odd days, on even days, or on selected days of the week)

When you start the screen, you may already be presented with suggested values. These values, marked with an atomic nucleus symbol, are so-called Smart Plan recommendations from the system, which the system suggests using its built-in intelligence. I’ll explain exactly how this works and how useful it is below. You can keep these values or simply enter your own.

Create an interval irrigation program (cycle and soak function)

In this mode, in addition to the start time and duration of the irrigation, intervals are defined in which irrigation should run or pause. This is done with the two additional specifications “Runtime” and “Interval.”

  • The runtime determines how long irrigation should run before an interruption occurs.
  • The interval determines how long this interruption should last.

For example, if you have set a duration of 1 hour and 20 minutes with a runtime of 20 minutes and an interval of 10 minutes, the result would be:

  • 20 minutes of irrigation
  • 10 minutes pause
  • 20 minutes of irrigation
  • 10 minutes pause
  • 20 minutes of irrigation

This function is also known as cycle and soak. It is used for staggered irrigation with pauses on soils that are difficult to absorb water or are very sloping, so that less water runs off unused.

However, they can also be used – as RainPoint suggests – to implement mist cooling. In this case, both the runtime and interval would need to be set relatively short. Runtimes and intervals from 1 second to 60 minutes are possible.

Compared to competitor systems, one disadvantage is that you have to do some calculations yourself to determine the desired total watering time. For example, if you want to water the lawn for 60 minutes, but no more than 20 minutes at a time, with 10-minute breaks in between, you have to calculate the time to water for 20 minutes, then a 10-minute break, then water for 20 minutes, another 10-minute break, and finally water for 20 minutes again. By adding up the totals, you arrive at 80 minutes, which you have to enter as the duration. In other systems, you simply enter how long you want to water, the runtime, and the interval, and the system automatically calculates the total duration.

Created Programs

The programs you’ve already created, along with their key data, are displayed as follows when you start the Plan menu:

Calendar View

By clicking on the calendar icon in the top right corner, you can open a calendar view that shows when irrigation runs are scheduled for the selected month:

Irrigation Pause (Bypass)

This allows you to manually set an irrigation pause of 24, 48, or 72 hours. This can be useful, for example, if it has just rained heavily and therefore no irrigation is necessary for the next few days, or if heavy rainfall is forecast for the coming days. It also gives you the flexibility to skip a scheduled irrigation session, for example, if a party is planned in the garden at the scheduled irrigation time, without having to adjust the irrigation program.

The irrigation pause can only be set and canceled globally for all programs of an output, and not for each program individually.

Compared to competitor products, I also lack the option to set an indefinite pause. This can be useful, for example, at the end of the season.

Somewhat limited flexibility

Compared to competitor apps, RainPoint Home’s program creation is somewhat limited, as it allows a maximum of six programs. This alone might be sufficient under certain circumstances, but there are also additional limitations:

  • Only one start time per day can be defined for each program.
  • And only one duration can be defined for each program.
  • Furthermore, a program cannot differentiate between the start time and duration for different days of the week; all days are watered according to the same schedule.

In comparison, other systems allow multiple start times and different watering durations per day, which can be varied for each day of the week. Due to the very inflexible programming of RainPoint Home, the six programs are used up relatively quickly. For most users, this should be sufficient, but if you have more specific requirements, the six programs might be quite limited!

Using Manual Irrigation

In addition to executing scheduled irrigation cycles, you can also start a manual irrigation cycle at any time by clicking on the “Manual” menu item. Controllers with multiple outputs have multiple zones available. Depending on which zone you selected when starting manual irrigation, the corresponding zone will be watered.

With manual irrigation, you can again choose between normal mode and interval mode:

Both modes work in principle like the irrigation program, except that both only allow for continuous irrigation; watering a specific liter flow rate is not possible in manual irrigation.

In normal mode, a minimum run time of 1 minute and a maximum run time of 12 hours are possible in minute increments. The run time in interval mode can be set in second increments from 1 second to 60 minutes.

Once the irrigation cycle has started, the remaining time is displayed. You can stop the cycle at any time by clicking on the “Manual” menu item again.

After the manual watering cycle is complete, the amount of water used will be displayed.

Retrieve consumption statistics

Under this menu item, water consumption is displayed as a chart. You can switch between a daily view of the last 30 days and a monthly view of the last 12 months. The display is in landscape format, so you have to rotate your phone. A separate display of consumption broken down by computer outputs is not possible. Nor is there a distinction made between scheduled and manual watering runs. There’s also no optional display of water costs, as offered in other apps.

My opinion: There’s still a lot of room for improvement in terms of information content!

Water consumption statistics

Access Event History

Here you can view the completed irrigation cycles and other logged events (alerts) of the irrigation computer.

These include:

  • Completed irrigation cycles
  • Recorded water consumption
  • Various warnings about things like water leaks, low temperatures, etc.

Irrigation Computer Settings

You can access these settings by clicking the Settings icon in the top right corner of the Irrigation Computer menu.

Device Information

Under this menu item, you can view the water computer’s battery level and display the wireless signal strength:

Zone settings

Settings can be made here for each irrigation computer output (zone). The zone can also be described in more detail. If you have activated the RainPoint artificial intelligence “SmartPlan,” default values for the irrigation duration for regular irrigation and for the runtime and interval for interval irrigation are generated based on these values. These values are then automatically suggested by the system when you create a new irrigation program. If you don’t want such automatic suggestions, you can also deactivate SmartPlan. I would recommend doing this; more on this below!

If you also have a RainPoint soil moisture sensor available in the app, you can activate it here.

Under the “Water Usage Correction” menu item, you can enter a correction factor for the water flow sensor integrated into the computer. This is useful if, in practice, it turns out that the sensor always reports consumption slightly too low or too high. For example, by entering a calibration coefficient of 5%, you can adjust the measured results upwards by 5%.

Zone Information

Here, as mentioned above, you can describe the zone to be watered in more detail. The more precisely and realistically you do this, the more accurate the built-in Smart Plan logic can be, according to RainPoint. The descriptions are divided into five categories.

My opinion: Sorry, this feature is well-intentioned, but very poorly copied from Orbit B-hyve. Even the smartest AI in the world couldn’t generate meaningful suggestions from this little superficial information. In this form, it would have been wiser to omit it altogether, because it’s simply not useful. The recommendations I received during my test made absolutely no sense and sometimes contradicted all the usual rules. For example, for a normal lawn, short daily watering cycles were recommended, instead of watering the lawn less frequently but more intensively, as is correct according to conventional wisdom. You can safely deactivate this option!

Gateway Settings

If you use a gateway with an additional outlet, you can also control this outlet smartly.

The outlet can be turned on and off via the app, or it can also be used as a timer by specifying when the outlet should turn on and off:

Additional Settings

The gateway also has a settings menu in the top right corner. Of particular interest here is the option to check the signal strength or change the communication channel if you’re experiencing problems with the wireless connection.

Quick Info Overview

The description now continues with the overlaid navigation menu.

The Info menu displays a quick weather overview and a quick overview of added devices:

Clicking on the weather information takes you to a detailed weather view:

Automation

Like RainPoint Tuya, RainPoint Home also offers options for further automating irrigation and making it dependent on certain conditions. In principle, this is similar to the capabilities of the RainPoint Tuya app, with minor enhancements.

As already noted with the RainPoint Tuya app, this feature is relatively large and far-reaching, as it could theoretically connect other devices besides the irrigation computer. Unfortunately, this also makes it more complex than necessary for users who only want to use it to control their irrigation computer and aren’t interested in a comprehensive smart home solution. If you’ve had little experience with smart home and automation before, you’ll need to get used to the functionality and understand the system.

When it comes to controlling the irrigation computer, the weather control option is almost exclusively of interest. To set up such weather-dependent control, click on the “Create Smart Scene” button or the plus symbol in the top right.

Define a Condition

The first step is to add the if condition that should be the prerequisite for executing the desired action and select “Weather Condition.”

You now have five types of weather conditions to choose from:

These are almost identical to those in the RainPoint Tuya app, with the difference that the sunrise/sunset event is not available, and the much more important precipitation probability option is available instead.

Screenshots below show the setting options for these five options. As already noted with RainPoint Tuya, the disadvantage here is that only limited reference to specific measured values is possible, and it is sometimes unclear how they are determined. For example, you can select “rainy” for the type of weather, but you have no information about what the app considers to be rainy. With the precipitation probability, you also don’t know which period of time it refers to.

Five Weather Setting Options

By selecting Temperature, you can specify a maximum or minimum temperature above or below which an action should be performed. As a third option, you can also initiate the action when a specific temperature is measured.

The same applies to Humidity and Wind Speed, except that the humidity and wind speed, respectively, are used as the comparison values.

The Rain Probability works similarly, except that instead of an absolute value, the comparison is based on the probability of rain.

For Type of Weather, the execution of the action depends on the occurrence of a specific weather situation.

Use Device Status as a Trigger Condition

In addition to weather conditions, the second possible trigger type is device status. The following conditions can be used as triggers for the water computer:

  • Battery Level (Normal, Low Power, or No Power can be selected)
  • Work State (Off, Normal irrigation, Intervall irrigation)
  • Valve Failure (Yes, No)
  • Water Shortage (Yes, No)

Regarding the gateway socket, the property Switched On (Yes, No) can be selected as a trigger.

Using time as a trigger condition

This allows you to easily define a specific date and time at which an action should be performed. Or, you can have an action repeated at specified intervals.

Defining the action to be performed

Now the condition that must be met has been defined. The only thing missing is the action that should be performed in such a case. To add this, click “Add task” or the plus symbol next to “Execution”.

You can now select the type of task to be performed. You can choose between “Control device” and “Send notifications.” If you select the first option, you can control the water computer or the socket in the gateway depending on the condition; if you select the second option, you can send a notification when a condition is met. Multiple actions can also be performed with one trigger; for example, you can control a device and send a message for it at the same time.

I will show the options for both options below.

Control device

This is the main function of RainPoint Home Automation: Depending on the previously defined weather event, you can initiate the following for each zone:

  • Postpone the execution of watering runs (a delay of 1 day up to a maximum of 30 days is possible)
  • Deactivate the zone so that no watering takes place
  • Start a regular watering run with a specific duration or a specific predefined water consumption
  • Start an interval watering run with a specific duration or a specific predefined water consumption However, you can’t specify an interval or runtime for the intervals, so the exact function is unclear. It’s possible that the values stored for the zone as default values are used; I haven’t tested this.

And with a gateway with a built-in smart plug, the following is possible:

  • Turn on the plug
  • Turn off the plug

In the following example, I turn off the watering computer when the condition is met.

Sending notifications

For notifications, you can choose between a push notification on your mobile phone and an email notification. The first option is unfortunately very misleadingly named; you might think it’s an SMS notification. However, this isn’t possible in RainPoint Home, even for an additional fee, as is offered with RainPoint Tuya. Instead, the email notification option, sorely lacking in RainPoint Tuya, is available. Up to five different email recipients can be specified.

A text is defined for the notification, which is then displayed in the message.

Additional Automation Settings

For each created automation, you can optionally specify a time period during which the rule should apply. By default, this is the entire day, but you can also specify it to apply only during the day, only at night, or only during a specific date range.

You can also specify that the activity is performed a maximum of a certain number of times per day (1 to 30 times) and a minimum time period between rule executions, from 1 minute to 24 hours.

A completed automation rule would then look like this. In the example, the system deactivates irrigation when the weather is rainy.

Scheduled activities for all connected devices

If you only use the water computer with RainPoint Home, this display is completely identical to the schedule overview in the water computer settings discussed above. All scheduled watering programs are displayed. If you have also scheduled activities for other devices, such as the smart gateway socket in my example, these will also be displayed here. A calendar view like the one in the water computer settings is not possible here.

Global Settings

Various basic settings can be configured in this area. The following menu items are available:

Unfortunately, the names of the sub-items make it difficult to determine what is located where, and some of them are also misleading. Below is an overview of the most important settings hidden here.

Home Management

Here, you can change the units used in the app, the time zone, and the currency. You can also configure Smart Home settings (dividing into areas such as the living room and garden). You can change the location where watering takes place. You can also grant additional people access to the app.

Change the Garden Location

The “Location” menu item allows you to view the location currently stored in the app on a map. This is responsible for the local weather data used for automatic weather control. If you want to change the location, you can also do so here.

Give access to other users

This function allows you to grant other people access to the app. This could be other family members, for example, or a neighbor who looks after the garden while you’re on vacation. To invite another person, click the plus symbol in the top right corner of the “Members” menu item and enter the email address of the person you want to invite.

Please note, an important point that isn’t mentioned in the app: You can’t enter just any email address here; only email addresses of people who already have a RainPoint account will work! Those you invite must therefore first create an account. This makes it a bit more complicated compared to competitor apps, where you can freely send invitations and the account is only required once the invitation has been accepted.

Event

Just like in the watering computer settings, the events that have already occurred are displayed here, but not just for the watering computer, but for all connected devices. In my example screenshot, for example, the switching on and off of the gateway socket is also displayed.

You can also limit the display to specific event types by clicking on the magnifying glass.

Third-party voice services

This menu item doesn’t contain a function, but rather two instructions for integrating RainPoint Home with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. This allows you to execute irrigation computer functions via voice command. For example, you can start irrigation with “Ok Google, turn on water timer!” and stop it with “Ok Google, turn off water timer!”. If multiple devices or irrigation computer outputs are available, the device name must also be included in the instruction, for example, “Ok Google, turn on water timer (device name)!”

FAQs and Feedback

Here you will find the most frequently asked questions and answers about the app and operating instructions for all irrigation computer models.

Help

Is a link to the RainPoint homepage, which provides RainPoint’s contact information.

Info

Here you’ll find various legal information, such as the privacy policy and user agreement, and you can actively search for app updates.

Settings

Under the “Settings” submenu item, you’ll also find the option to deactivate notifications. You can deactivate push notifications on your phone and/or email notifications; both are enabled by default.

A major drawback: Unfortunately, there’s no way to specify whether you want to receive notifications for each event type. If you activate this actually very useful feature, you’ll be flooded with notifications for even less interesting events, such as every time a watering cycle starts and ends. There’s also no overview of which events trigger notifications. An alternative is to deactivate all notifications here and configure them yourself via the automation menu.

You can also change the app language here (you can choose from seven languages).

Shop

This is a link to the RainPoint online shop.

Interfaces

As mentioned above, a connection to the following two systems is possible:

  • Google Assistant
  • Amazon Alexa

Conclusion and Recommendation

The RainPoint Home software is RainPoint’s latest offering. It incorporates the functional elements of the two other RainPoint apps into a single app. This provides an app with a reasonably functional and understandable navigation and the option to incorporate the weather into irrigation control. With the other two RainPoint apps, you have to make significant compromises in either of these two areas.

Conclusion: RainPoint Home offers the most affordable option currently on the market for remotely controlling your irrigation computer via the web and also integrates a somewhat usable weather control feature and limited smart home functionality.

However, even RainPoint Home cannot compete with the currently best irrigation computer providers in terms of weather control and software. The main reason is that the weather data is far too inaccurate and intransparent. Unlike other providers, you can’t define an exact amount of precipitation or the time period in which it should fall, but only whether the weather is generally rainy. Without further information about what rainy means or the time period to which the probability of rain refers, this is hardly useful for weather control.

Competitors like LinkTap, Hunter Hydrawise, or OpenSprinkler do this much better. And they also offer many additional features within the program, such as seasonal adjustments or extensive options for integrating sensors. Furthermore, the competitors’ irrigation programs can be defined much more precisely and in detail. This is where RainPoint Home, with just six possible programs that are also very rigidly defined, presents a potential bottleneck.

Compared to the two other RainPoint apps, bundling the strengths of the other two apps into one program makes sense, but the overall development is very manageable. So, if you want the best possible software that offers you a wide range of options, I would recommend LinkTap, Hunter Hydrawise, or OpenSprinkler.

However, these are also significantly more expensive. If price is your main priority, and the ability to remotely control an irrigation computer (from vacation) is the key selling point, and everything else is just a bonus, then you can definitely consider a RainPoint Home Computer. Especially compared to the two other RainPoint apps, this one is still the best.

Another reasonably priced alternative would be Orbit B-hyve, which is only slightly more expensive than RainPoint but has significantly more powerful software. However, Orbit B-hyve performs most of the weather-dependent control on autopilot, giving you only limited options for active intervention. This concept may or may not appeal to you. I describe it in detail in the blog post on Orbit B-hyve.

In my opinion, the smart systems from Gardena and Rain Bird are not an alternative. Both are significantly more expensive, but they also offer mostly basic functionality. So you can save money and go with RainPoint.

Der Beitrag Description of the functionality of the RainPoint Home App erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> Description of the functionality of the HomGar app for RainPoint irrigation computers https://www.irrigation-guide.com/description-of-the-functionality-of-the-homgar-app-for-rainpoint-irrigation-computers.html Fri, 25 Jul 2025 13:43:42 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=3292 In this post, I'll describe the functionality of the HomGar app for RainPoint irrigation computers with web connectivity. RainPoint currently offers three different apps for its irrigation computers, although not all computers work with every app. I'll describe the two other apps, RainPoint Tuya and RainPoint Home, in the following two blog posts: Blog [...]

Der Beitrag Description of the functionality of the HomGar app for RainPoint irrigation computers erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

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In this post, I’ll describe the functionality of the HomGar app for RainPoint irrigation computers with web connectivity. RainPoint currently offers three different apps for its irrigation computers, although not all computers work with every app. I’ll describe the two other apps, RainPoint Tuya and RainPoint Home, in the following two blog posts:

Blog post: How the RainPoint Tuya app works
Blog post: How the RainPoint Home app works

The HomGar app works the same for all RainPoint computers compatible with HomGar, regardless of the specific RainPoint model selected. In this article, I will describe the individual features in detail and conclude by discussing how the RainPoint software compares to the two other RainPoint apps and the competition.

RainPoint Product Overview

Before, here’s a quick overview of the currently available RainPoint models that use the HomGar software presented here. The screenshots refer to the model with two outputs. The model with one output has the same functionality, but, logically, only one output can be programmed.

RAINPOINT 1-Zone Wireless Smart Water Timer for Garden Hose with Hub Outdoor Sprinkler Irrigation Rain Delay, APP Remote Control WiFi Valve for Faucet Automatic Schedules Lawn,Backyard,Pool
RAINPOINT 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Timer for Garden Hose - Smart WiFi Water Timer with Irrigation Display Gateway Hub - Wireless Smart Watering System with Dual Zone Garden Watering
Computer
RainPoint with 1 output (HTV113FRF)
RainPoint with 2 outputs (HTV213FRF)
Zones
1
2
Which App
HomGar, RainPoint Home
HomGar, RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Special feature
-
-
Price
$62.99
$84.95
RAINPOINT 1-Zone Wireless Smart Water Timer for Garden Hose with Hub Outdoor Sprinkler Irrigation Rain Delay, APP Remote Control WiFi Valve for Faucet Automatic Schedules Lawn,Backyard,Pool
Computer
RainPoint with 1 output (HTV113FRF)
Zones
1
Which App
HomGar, RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Special feature
-
Price
$62.99
RAINPOINT 2 Zone WiFi Sprinkler Timer for Garden Hose - Smart WiFi Water Timer with Irrigation Display Gateway Hub - Wireless Smart Watering System with Dual Zone Garden Watering
Computer
RainPoint with 2 outputs (HTV213FRF)
Zones
2
Which App
HomGar, RainPoint Home
Integrated water flow meter?
Rain sensor connectable?
Soil moisture sensor connectable?
Yes (via wireless connection)
Manual watering at the touch of a button?
Batteries
4 AA batteries
Variants
Special feature
-
Price
$84.95

Main Menu/Navigation

When you start the app, the following overview appears, from which you can navigate to the individual functions:

At first glance, this view appears very tidy and pleasant. It is essentially divided into the following sections:

  • Weather display
  • Overview of connected devices
  • Main menu

In the following screenshot, I have visually highlighted the three sections:

The first section, the weather display, is purely informational. No functions are based on the displayed weather. The local weather is displayed based on the stored location. This information can be used to pause irrigation, for example, if very rainy weather is forecast. Clicking on the weather section displays even more detailed weather information, including a 24-hour and 7-day forecast, including the probability of rain.

The second section displays the devices connected to the software. In my case, this is the gateway itself, which establishes the connection with the irrigation computer. And the irrigation computer itself, which is displayed twice, as each output of the computer is represented as a separate device.

The third section is the actual main menu with four different menu items. The Home menu item leads to the previously introduced home page.

Creating an Irrigation Program

To create a new irrigation program, click on the irrigation computer in the Home menu and then select the “Plan” menu item. You can add a new irrigation program by clicking on the plus symbol in the top right corner.

Before creating a new program, you must select the basic irrigation mode:

You can choose between “normal irrigation” and “interval irrigation,” although the two modes are rather misleadingly named. Interval irrigation, as we usually know it, i.e., where you repeat a watering cycle at specific intervals, is not created under “interval irrigation” but in normal mode.

Interval irrigation, on the other hand, includes the function that other manufacturers call the “cycle and seepage function,” in which the system divides irrigation cycles into irrigation and waiting phases to allow for better water seepage.

Below is a description of the form for “normal irrigation runs”:

  • Start Time – Specifies when the watering run starts
  • Duration – Duration of the watering run
  • Repeat – Here you can either specify an interval at which the watering run should be repeated (daily, on odd days, on even days), or you can specifically select the days of the week on which watering should take place.
  • Water Usage Limit – You can also specify a maximum amount of water to be watered here, which must not be exceeded. If this limit is reached before the specified run time has elapsed, the watering run will end early.

The blue atomic nucleus symbol, which appears in some places, indicates values suggested by the system. These are based on a small amount of information about the garden that can be stored in the app; see the “Zone Default Settings” and “Zone Information” sections.

Cycle and Soak Function (Interval Irrigation)

As already mentioned, the second program mode is the function commonly known as the Cycle and Soak-Off function. The setting options are essentially the same as before, with the addition of two additional parameters: Runtime and Interval:

  • Runtime – Sets the duration of the irrigation phases. Irrigation continues for this time until a pause occurs.
  • Interval – Sets the duration of the pauses. This time is paused after each irrigation phase.

For example, if the runtime is 30 minutes and the interval is 15 minutes, irrigation will continue for 30 minutes, then a 15-minute pause, then another 30 minutes, then a 15-minute pause, and so on. This continues until the specified duration is reached.

A small disadvantage of this implementation compared to competing systems is that you may have to do some calculations yourself to achieve your desired result. For example, if you want the lawn to be watered for 60 minutes, but then take a 10-minute break every 20 minutes, you have to consider that first you water for 20 minutes, followed by a 10-minute break, then another 20 minutes of watering, then a 10-minute break, and another 20 minutes of watering. Adding all of this up, you get a total of 80 minutes, which you would have to enter under Duration for the irrigation to work as desired.

Why do you even need such a cycle and soak function? Typically, for very clayey soils that cannot absorb water so quickly and where too much water would run by unused, you would run the irrigation cycle without breaks. The same applies to very sloping surfaces.

RainPoint brings another function into play here and also calls this mode mist mode. This means that you use the mode to create a cooling mist at certain intervals, like some cafes do outdoors during the summer months.

Limited Flexibility

The maximum number of possible programs is limited to six. Compared to most competing systems, this means significantly limited flexibility in irrigation because:

  • Only one start time per day can be defined for each program.
  • Only one duration can be defined for each program.
  • Within a program, it is not possible to differentiate between the start time and duration by day of the week.

For comparison: With other systems, such as the one from LinkTap, multiple start times and different irrigation durations can be defined per day. And these can be defined variably for each day of the week. Since this is not the case with RainPoint, you quickly need a larger number of programs for a somewhat more flexible irrigation schedule, so the six available per outlet could be quite limited. For 95% of users, these will be sufficient, but if you plan to do something a little different from the norm, then you should keep this limitation in mind!

Display of the created irrigation programs

Created programs are displayed in the Plan menu. This menu exists twice: once at the irrigation computer level and once at a higher level in the main menu. There, you can see which programs are active for all existing outputs of the irrigation computer, and under “Plan Bypass” you can see whether an irrigation pause is currently active or not (more on this below). If you want to edit an existing program, simply click on it.

Calendar overview of scheduled irrigation cycles

You can also view the scheduled irrigation cycles in a calendar overview by clicking on the calendar icon.

Irrigation pause (bypass)

You are also offered a “bypass” option. This pauses irrigation for 24, 48, or 72 hours. This can be useful for manually responding to rainy weather and thus avoiding unnecessary watering. Or for suspending scheduled irrigation cycles as an exception, for example, if a barbecue is taking place in the garden during the scheduled watering time.

The pause is set for each output of the irrigation computer. Unlike competing products, there is no option to set the pause indefinitely, which can be useful at the end of the season, for example. The RainPoint HomGar software does not automatically set the pause based on weather data.

Event (Alerts)

Under this menu item, you can access some recorded events.

These include:

  • Completed watering cycle
  • Recorded water consumption
  • Various warnings about water leaks, low temperatures, etc.

By clicking on the lens, you can limit the display to specific event types. By default, these events are only logged and can then be accessed here. However, some of them only really make sense if you are actively notified about them. To do this, you can activate notifications in the settings both via mobile (= push notification on your phone) and via email (= email notification).

Note: What’s really poorly done here is that you can’t distinguish between the events you want to be notified about and those you don’t. If you activate the actually useful notification on your phone or via email, you will be inundated with notifications from now on, including, for example, every watering cycle that has taken place.

The following events are listed in the RainPoint software, although some of them refer to smart devices other than the irrigation computer:

Basic Settings

All basic app settings are managed here. The following menu items are available:

Personal Data

By clicking the arrow next to the person icon, you can edit personal data such as your email address and password, and add a profile photo if desired. You can also delete your account here.

Home Management

Here you can edit names, management zones, and the location where irrigation takes place. The last option affects the weather information displayed in the app. You can also set which units, time zone, and currency the app uses.

Invite Additional Users

Also located in Home Management is the option to grant additional people access to the irrigation control system. To do so, simply enter the email address of the user who should have access.

Important and not mentioned anywhere in the app: For this to work, the user must first create a Homgar app account with this email address! Only users previously registered with Homgar can be invited. Once the user logs into the account, they can accept the invitation.

FAQs and Feedback

Here you’ll find the most frequently asked questions and answers about the app and user manuals for all watering computer models.

Third-party voice services

Here you’ll find two instructions on how to integrate the HomGar app with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa and thus perform some of its functions using voice commands. For example, “Ok Google, turn on water timer” starts watering. “Ok Google, turn off water timer” stops it. If you have multiple devices/outputs stored in the app, you must also state the device name: “Ok Google, turn on water timer (device name).”

Settings

Under Settings, you’ll find the important option to actively be notified of events that have occurred. You can activate a push notification on your phone or have the notification sent via email.

You can also change the app language (currently, there are 7 languages to choose from) and choose between different app designs, thus changing the appearance (backgrounds, font colors, etc.) of the app.

About

In addition to various legal information such as the privacy policy and user agreement, you can also actively search for updates for the app here.

Manual Irrigation Run

As an alternative to creating an irrigation program that is then repeatedly executed in the same way, you can also simply start a manual irrigation run. This is done by accessing the irrigation computer menu under Home. By clicking on the “Manual” menu item, you can start a spontaneous irrigation run.

Here, too, you can choose between normal mode and interval mode:

With the first mode, you simply specify the desired run time. Watering a specific amount of liters, as offered within a program, is not possible in the manual irrigation run.

In interval mode, you specify the runtime and interval in addition to the duration, so that watering is always interrupted after the specified runtime:

During the manual watering run, the remaining time is displayed. You can interrupt the run prematurely at any time by clicking “Manual” again.

Gateway Settings

Selecting the gateway in the Home menu and then clicking the Options icon in the top right will take you to the gateway settings:

You will rarely need these options in practice. The most likely time to need them is when there are problems with the wireless connection. You can check the signal strength and change the communication channel here.

Irrigation Computer Settings

Selecting the water computer in the Home menu and clicking the Settings icon in the top right will take you to the water computer settings.

Device Information

Here you will find essential information about the water computer’s battery level and the signal strength of the wireless connection:

Zone Default Settings

Here you can define default settings for each zone output, which will then be automatically suggested when creating new watering programs. If you don’t want these recommendations, you can also deactivate the “Smartplan recommendations.” And you can select a soil moisture sensor for the zone.

Under the “Water Usage Correction” menu item, you can define a correction factor for the computer’s integrated water flow sensor. For example, if it turns out in practice that the sensor measures the actual water quantity 10% too low, you would enter a calibration coefficient of 11% so that the measurement result is always automatically corrected upwards by 11%.

Zone Information

Under this menu item, you can describe the zone to be irrigated in more detail. To do this, you must define five properties as realistically as possible. This information then forms the basis for the system’s “Smartplan recommendations,” for example, the irrigation runtime or a suggested division of irrigation runs into irrigation and pause phases.

My opinion: It works very poorly and, in my opinion, serves no purpose or value! Firstly, the parameters you have to enter are far too limited to even derive any meaningful recommendations. And secondly, some of the recommendations I received during my test were completely wrong. For a normal lawn, for example, they recommended short daily watering cycles instead of the current state-of-the-art long watering cycles only once or twice a week. This functionality is somewhat copied from Orbit B-hyve, but in a much poorer, essentially pointless version.

Interfaces

As already mentioned above in the Basic Settings chapter, connection to the following two systems is possible:

  • Google Assistant
  • Amazon Alexa

Conclusion and Recommendation

RainPoint’s HomGar software is clear and well-designed, but essentially offers little more than remote control of the computer while on the go.

The complex functionalities that separate the wheat from the chaff in smart irrigation computers, such as automatic weather-dependent control, sensor integration, automatic seasonal adjustments, etc., are either not available at all or are implemented only to a very limited extent or are sometimes implemented in a tokenistic manner.

That’s fine if your main concern is the ability to operate the computer while on vacation or to manually suspend an unnecessary irrigation cycle when the weather is bad. Then RainPoint, along with Diivoo, offers the most affordable web-controlled irrigation computer currently available, with functioning software that covers the basic functions.

The RainPoint software can’t compete with the current best providers of Wi-Fi irrigation timers in terms of functionality; Hunter Hydrawise, LinkTap, and OpenSprinkler are in a completely different league.

The software from Orbit B-hyve, a provider of very affordable timers only slightly above RainPoint’s price point, is also significantly more comprehensive and better. It might be worth considering spending an extra $20 or $30 to get more powerful software. However, B-hyve’s approach of letting the software make its own decisions regarding irrigation scheduling in a black box may not suit every user, so it’s best to read the blog post on the B-hyve software first!

One option for slightly better weather control is to use the RainPoint Home software instead. This is based on the HomGar app, but has been expanded to include automation features and also works with all white RainPoint timers that use the HomGar software!

If you want really good software with sophisticated weather control, extensive sensor integration options, automatic seasonal adjustment, and many other features, then your only option is Hunter Hydrawise, LinkTap, or OpenSprinkler. However, you’ll have to dig considerably deeper into your wallet for that.

On the other hand, there’s hardly any reason to buy a smart Gardena or Rain Bird computer. Both are significantly more expensive than RainPoint, but their software also offers mostly basic functionality.

Der Beitrag Description of the functionality of the HomGar app for RainPoint irrigation computers erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> New to LinkTap: Advanced Flow Monitoring https://www.irrigation-guide.com/new-to-linktap-advanced-flow-monitoring.html Mon, 23 Jun 2025 07:12:10 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=3287 LinkTap maintains its pace of innovation and, following the launch of Smart Anti-Freeze Protection in March, is now expanding its software with the additional feature "Advanced Flow Monitoring." This feature complements the existing water flow monitoring options. These allow you to be notified if valves are not opening or closing properly, or to close the [...]

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]]> LinkTap maintains its pace of innovation and, following the launch of Smart Anti-Freeze Protection in March, is now expanding its software with the additional feature “Advanced Flow Monitoring.”

This feature complements the existing water flow monitoring options. These allow you to be notified if valves are not opening or closing properly, or to close the valve if the water flow is too high.

Advanced Flow Monitoring now covers additional scenarios that arise when the water timer is used in conjunction with an external device such as a flow switch, a water level switch, or a float valve. In this mode, the water timer’s valve is open for an extended period of time, but water only flows through when the external device sends the corresponding signal. A second external valve is therefore located upstream of the water timer’s outlet, which only allows water to flow temporarily. Such a solution can be useful for the following applications, for example:

  • Refilling water in a pool or pond
  • Sprinklers activated by motion sensors
  • Automatic animal waterers that refill as needed
  • Monitoring water consumption in the home (left-on taps, burst pipes)

The irrigation schedule of the irrigation computer is divided into times when water is flowing and times when no water is flowing:

For applications that are divided into multiple water flow phases, the Advanced Flow Monitoring feature can be used to monitor whether the water flow is atypical. Two metrics can be used for this:

  • The water flow during a water flow phase
  • The water flow during all water flow phases of an irrigation schedule combined

A maximum water flow duration or a maximum water volume can be monitored. For example, you can set a notification to be sent when a water flow phase (green bar) exceeds a certain maximum duration, or when more than a certain maximum water volume is used during a water flow phase. Alternatively, or in addition to the notification, you can also program the end of the irrigation cycle (closing the irrigation computer’s valve).

Alternatively, you can monitor the water flow during all water flow phases of an irrigation cycle. You can also define a maximum water flow duration and a maximum water flow rate, as well as a minimum water consumption rate.

A notification can be requested via push notification to your mobile phone or as an email notification.

No other irrigation computer I know of currently offers this feature! It is currently available with the T1, Q1, and ValveLinker computer models. I describe the function in more detail in the detailed description of the LinkTap app.

Note the 5% discount you receive as a reader of this blog when you purchase a LinkTap computer!

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]]> Link Tap software enhanced with “Smart Anti-Freeze Protection” https://www.irrigation-guide.com/link-tap-software-enhanced-with-smart-anti-freeze-protection.html Wed, 02 Apr 2025 12:46:05 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=3244 LinkTap has expanded its software with the March 2025 update to include the additional "Smart Anti-Freeze Protection" feature. Previously, LinkTap devices had a certain level of frost protection, which automatically alerts users of impending frost well in advance of the onset of winter, allowing them to winterize the irrigation controller early enough to prevent damage. [...]

Der Beitrag Link Tap software enhanced with “Smart Anti-Freeze Protection” erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> LinkTap has expanded its software with the March 2025 update to include the additional “Smart Anti-Freeze Protection” feature.

Previously, LinkTap devices had a certain level of frost protection, which automatically alerts users of impending frost well in advance of the onset of winter, allowing them to winterize the irrigation controller early enough to prevent damage. This occurs when water standing in the pipes expands in volume as it freezes, thus bursting the irrigation controller.

Previously, the warnings did not cover the danger of very rapid weather changes, when large temperature changes occur within a few hours or days, and the temperature suddenly drops from significantly above zero to below zero. Such rare extreme events have repeatedly led to the destruction of thousands of irrigation controllers worldwide in the past. To prevent this, LinkTap has included a clever additional feature in its software. As far as I know, they are currently the only manufacturer to offer this feature.

This feature requires a temperature sensor built into the controller. This is included in all LinkTaps of the following models: D1, T1, Q1, G1S (manufactured from 2023), and G2S (manufactured from 2023).

It works by automatically triggering a short watering cycle when the temperature falls below a certain level. This ensures that the water that is currently freezing is flushed from the pipe, preventing damage. If the temperature remains low, the process is repeated at preset intervals.

Intelligent Frost Protection can be managed in the device settings and is enabled by default with useful values:

 

If necessary, these values ​​can be further refined:

  • Increase/decrease the temperature at which frost protection takes effect
  • Increase/decrease the flushing duration
  • Extend the flushing duration depending on the cold temperature
  • Adjust the flushing interval
  • Specify the computer output at which the flushing should occur (only possible if multiple outputs are available)

LinkTap products can be purchased directly from the LinkTap online shop, including free shipping. When making a purchase, be sure to take advantage of the 5% discount LinkTap offers to readers of this blog, coupon code: LINKTAP-IG!

Cover image: LinkTap

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]]> Overview of the functionality of the LinkTap app https://www.irrigation-guide.com/overview-of-the-functionality-of-the-linktap-app.html Wed, 02 Apr 2025 11:58:56 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=1658 In the following article, I describe the functionality of the LinkTap software for controlling LinkTap irrigation computers via the web. Since the software is the same for all LinkTap models, what is written here applies regardless of the LinkTap model used. In this article, I will show you what functions this software contains, how [...]

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]]>

In the following article, I describe the functionality of the LinkTap software for controlling LinkTap irrigation computers via the web. Since the software is the same for all LinkTap models, what is written here applies regardless of the LinkTap model used. In this article, I will show you what functions this software contains, how to use it, what sets it apart from the smart irrigation software of competitors and how it performs overall.

The article is intentionally very detailed so that you get an overall overview of the software’s range of functions and can also see whether the software covers very specific requirements.

The software is available as an app for Android and iOS devices. In addition, you can use it as a web version via the LinkTap website, so that you can also access it via a desktop computer or notebook.

LinkTap product overview

First, there is a quick overview of the LinkTap models currently available. The software described is used in all of these.

Depending on the hardware requirements of the individual models, a few functions may be restricted: For example, the functions relating to the water flow sensor are only available if the computer also has a water flow sensor. And you can only program more than one output if the computer also has several outputs or if you have alternatively connected several computers to the software.

Note: As a reader of this blog, you can benefit from our cooperation with LinkTap and save 5% on your purchase. Simply enter the coupon code LINKTAP-IG when shopping in the LinkTap online shop!

Computer LinkTap G1S LinkTap G2S LinkTap D1 LinkTap Q1 LinkTap V1
(“Valve Linker”)
Zones 1 1 2 4 1, 2 or 4 (depending on the variant)
Integrated/ Connectable Water Flow Sensor? No Yes Yes Yes Yes (connectable)
Rain sensor connectable? No No No No No
Soil moisture sensor connectable? No No No No No
Manual watering at the touch of a button? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Batteries 4 x AA batteries 4 x AA batteries 4 x AA batteries 2 x 9 V block batteries 2 x 9 V block batteries
Variants No No No No Z1 (1 zone), Z2 (2 zones), Z4 (4 zones)
Price (approx., excl. Gateway)* $ 62 $ 87 $ 140 $ 225 $ 115 – $ 165

A water flow meter is permanently installed in the LinkTap D1 and Q1. With the LinkTap G2S and V1, one can optionally be connected outside the computer. With the LinkTap G2S, an alternative water flow meter from LinkTap for very small water quantities (“Micro Flow Meter”) can also be used optionally. Unlike the standard water flow meter, this can also measure very small water quantities (3 to 80 gallons per hour), which occur, for example, in micro-irrigation applications.

According to information from LinkTap, the product segment will soon be expanded to include the LinkTap T1, another irrigation computer with two outputs. However, unlike the D1, this is built according to the principle of the Q1, so the control unit and valve unit are structurally separate. In comparison, the T1 meets even higher requirements in terms of watertightness and protection of the battery against moisture and condensation, making it particularly suitable for use in damp or coastal environments or areas at risk of flooding.

In addition, an extension is planned with the LinkTap Extender, which can be used to set up a mesh network around the gateway and thus achieve even better radio coverage. One or more extenders are installed for this purpose. These can be connected to the power supply or powered by a battery. Such a mesh network can be an important improvement, especially for large gardens or for locations with structurally demanding requirements.

Main menu/Navigation

When you start the app, you will see the following start screen, from which you can navigate to the individual functions:

My first impression was that the colors used in the app could be a little less garish. But that’s a matter of taste and negligible. What’s more important is that at first glance it’s difficult to see how the navigation works and it’s hard to guess where which setting option might be hidden. That’s not a big problem, as you’ll get used to it over time and it’s certainly due to the large number of functions that are offered.

The main menu is basically divided into five main areas:

  1. Creating programs and controlling the irrigation computer
  2. Global information and control options for all irrigation computers used
  3. Basic settings
  4. Gateway settings
  5. Contact and product information

I’ve marked these five areas in the following screenshot:

The most important area in daily practice is the first, where you can create the irrigation program and carry out spontaneous irrigation runs. Depending on how many LinkTap irrigation computers you operate with the app, you will only see this part once or several times for each of the connected computers. LinkTap does not differentiate here whether it is individual computers or a computer with multiple outputs. Individual outputs of a computer are also displayed in the same way as separate computers.

The second area with the global control will also be used again and again in daily use. Areas 3 and 4 for the basic and gateway settings are needed primarily at the beginning in order to initially make the desired global settings.

The fifth area, the bar at the very bottom, does not contain any primarily important functions in my opinion. Here you can access the help and the web shop, rate the product, contact the manufacturer, call up control values ​​for the gateway and computer and call up the alerts for the last 14 days. In my opinion, this very prominently placed navigation section could have been used for more important things, or even left out completely to keep the navigation clearer.

Setting up an irrigation program

With LinkTap, even if you have multiple computers or a computer with multiple outputs, the program is not created in one step for all of them, but individually for each device/each output. In order to see all program activities together when using multiple devices, you have the option of calling them up in a global overview. More on this below.

A new irrigation plan is created by clicking on the “Create/Edit Watering Plans” button on the computer for which you want to create the plan:

In the next step, select one of the following 6 modes:

Interval mode

Watering is carried out at consistent intervals, e.g. daily, every 2 days, every 7 days, every 30 days. Freely selectable from 1 to 30 days. Such an interval mode can be used, for example, to water a freshly sown lawn that needs short watering several times a day in the first few weeks.

7-Day mode

This is the classic setting mode that is offered in most watering computers and is also required in most applications. You specify how long and at what time you want to water from Monday to Sunday. The program is then repeated in the same way week after week. In my example, I only have one start time on each day, but you can of course also specify several runs per day in this mode.

Eco mode

The screenshot shows that Eco mode has been activated. In technical jargon and in most competitor products, this function is called “Cycle and Soak” and means that the irrigation time is divided into irrigation and waiting phases. This makes sense if the soil is overwhelmed and cannot absorb the water during irrigation and puddles form or water flows away. This can be an issue especially on slopes or with clayey soil.

In my example, I set “valve on” to 20 minutes and “valve off” to 30 minutes. This means that irrigation always takes place for 20 minutes and then there is a 30-minute irrigation break. Since the irrigation time is set to 40 minutes in total, irrigation takes place for 20 minutes, then a 30-minute pause, and then another 20 minutes. The entire irrigation process therefore takes 70 minutes rather than 40 minutes.

Odd-Even mode

In this mode, you can decide whether you want to water on even or odd days. The irrigation plan is set for one day and then carried out on all even or odd days as defined.

Month mode

In this mode, you set a daily irrigation plan for the 12 months January to December. This gives you the opportunity to adjust the irrigation to the seasonally changing climatic conditions. You don’t set a plan for months in which you don’t want to water.

In my opinion, this mode is well-intentioned but because daily irrigation is fixed, it is hardly usable in practice. This setting option depending on the month would make much more sense for the 7-day mode. Competitors offer a similar option of varying the irrigation for the different months using an adjustment factor under the keyword “Seasonal Adjustment”.

Calendar mode

This mode gives you the maximum possible flexibility by allowing you to set the desired watering cycles for any desired date. I have outlined this below as an example for a period of time. The disadvantage is that it is of course relatively time-consuming to set the watering separately for each day. But if you need maximum flexibility and don’t mind the effort, it might be worth considering.

Main valve mode/setting a master valve

This is not a mode for controlling an irrigation program like the other five modes, but rather this mode gives you the option of using the irrigation computer as a master valve. A master valve like this is used to secure the irrigation in the event that the irrigation computer’s outputs do not close properly. In such a case, the irrigation would continue to run and could cause damage or at least waste a large amount of water.

To prevent this, you can put a master valve in front of it. This opens together with the outputs of the valves behind it and closes again together. This means that both the master valve and the valve behind it would have to fail for problems to arise, which is extremely unlikely.

I had previously only known the option of working with a master valve from irrigation computers for controlling external solenoid valves. This option has not been available for faucet control irrigation computers so far, so LinkTap offers a real innovation here. This illustration from LinkTap shows the possible structure of such a solution:

In principle, you can use any of the models sold by LinkTap as a master valve. In practice, you will be more likely to use the inexpensive G1S with just one output than models with multiple outputs such as the D1 or the Q1. This solution is comparatively expensive compared to the one using external solenoid valves, as the cheapest LinkTap computer, the G1S, costs around 60 dollars, whereas you can get a “bare” solenoid valve for around 20 dollars. But it is still a nice and innovative alternative solution that LinkTap offers here!

The settings for the master valve are made in the following mask. Here you specify which computers should be switched together with the master computer and you can define a time period that the master computer opens or closes before or after the zone valves. This can be necessary, especially in conjunction with a pump, to ensure an appropriate pressure build-up.

In addition to creating an irrigation program, there are two other setting options in the irrigation plan menu:

Configure instant watering via the computer

You can specify the length of time that irrigation takes place when the blue instant watering button on the computer is pressed. The default setting is 30 minutes
And the functionality of the blue button can be restricted. By default, an irrigation cycle starts when the button is pressed. This can be restricted so that the button must be held down for 3 seconds for the cycle to start or stop. Or you can deactivate the button completely so that instant irrigation can no longer be started or stopped directly via the computer.

This option can be very helpful in practice to avoid accidentally triggering irrigation cycles or to set a key lock should third parties tamper with the button.

Copy irrigation plans

You can also do this via “Create/Edit irrigation plans” and, as the name suggests, you can copy irrigation programs that you have set up on another computer/output to the computer/output from which you call up the menu.

Additional functions and setting options in the irrigation computer menu

After you have created an irrigation program, it will be displayed on the associated irrigation computer:

Below is an explanation of what the other symbols and buttons shown here do:

Instant Watering

This means that instant watering can be started at the touch of a button in the app. Two buttons are displayed: “Instant Watering On” and “Instant Watering Off”, which can be used to start or stop instant watering.

The duration of instant watering can be set as desired; the default setting is 5 minutes. You can also optionally use the Eco function for instant watering, i.e. divide the running time into watering and waiting phases.

If you click on the “Multiple” button, you can set up to 6 instant runs. For each of these, you can enter the duration and the pause until the next run. LinkTap thus provides an intelligent feature in conjunction with the automatic water distributor from Gardena. In this way, you can use the water distributor to water several zones in succession during manual instant watering. This puts LinkTap ahead of the manufacturer of the automatic water distributor Gardena, which does not offer such an option in its own watering computer software.

Device Info

or

The main menu displays five icons that provide quick information on the following:

  • Connection to the water flow sensor (present or not present). If present, the gallon usage of the last watering run will be displayed.
  • Wi-Fi signal strength
  • Battery level
  • Water flow alarm notifications activated or not activated
  • Instant watering directly via the button on the computer (activated or not activated)

Clicking on one of these icons takes you to the device information screen:

There you will find the following essential information and setting options:

  • The computer/output can be given a name
  • The quality of the WiFi signal is displayed and you can even track it for the last 14 days. This can be a very helpful option in the event of problems to find the error or to rule out that it is in the WiFi connection. In my opinion, this is a very useful feature that is currently only available with LinkTap.
  • Battery Level
  • Location – Only serves for internal differentiation if you have several irrigation computers in use in different places and want to keep track of everything.
  • Smart Anti-Freeze Protection – This is a very smart feature that was added with the March 2025 update and is currently only available on LinkTap. This requires a bit more detail, so I’ll introduce it below.
  • Battery Type – Is pre-assigned to a certain battery type by default and can be changed to other types. This is to send the notification about a low battery level as appropriately as possible, since the different battery types have different discharge properties and therefore a notification is necessary at different battery levels. For example, with a standard 9 volt alkaline battery, a warning is given at 10% charge, as it runs out very quickly from this level, with lithium batteries only later due to the higher power density.
  • Alarms – These options are only displayed if the device contains a water flow sensor. Alarms can then be activated based on the measured flow. I will describe this extensive point in detail below.
  • Solenoid valve model – Depends on which type of watering computer you are using. If you use external solenoid valves from third-party suppliers, you can set the pulse width for opening and closing and the capacitor charging duration in milliseconds.
  • Number of Gardena Automatic Water Distributor outputs skipped – Another very thoughtful detail from LinkTap! If you use the LinkTap computer together with a Gardena Automatic Water Distributor and have activated the “Skip if low Temperature” setting, you can specify that not just one output of the Gardena Automatic Water Distributor is skipped when the temperature is low, but up to six. This ensures that the order in which the outputs are run through is not mixed up after resuming.
  • Stopping the watering plan when the computer is disconnected from the gateway – This is deactivated by default. The programs are not only available in the app, but are transferred directly to the computer, so the computer can continue to run them even if there is a disruption in communication with the gateway. If you don’t want that, i.e. if you want irrigation to be stopped in the event of a disconnection from the gateway, you can activate this option here.

Smart Anti-Freeze Protection

This feature requires a temperature sensor built into the water timer. This is included in all LinkTap D1, T1, and Q1 timers, and in all G1S and G2S timers produced from 2023 onward.

The LinkTap software already has a certain degree of frost protection even without this feature, as it warns you of predicted frost, allowing you to winterize the timer before the onset of winter. However, this leaves a gap that can be caused by extreme weather changes when the temperature drops from significantly above zero to below zero within a few days or hours. This rarely happens, but it does happen, and inevitably leads to the damage of many thousands of timers. In this case, the warning comes too late, or there is too little time to react.

The problem is the water in the pipes, which expands when it freezes and bursts the timer. Smart Anti-Freeze Protection is designed to solve this problem: If the temperature drops below a certain level, a short irrigation cycle is automatically triggered to flush the freezing water from the pipe. If the temperature remains below the minimum, the flushing cycle is repeated at regular intervals.

This function is enabled by default, but you can adjust it as desired:

  • Change the temperature at which frost protection takes effect
  • Change the flushing duration
  • Make the flushing process last a certain amount of time longer the colder it is
  • Set the flushing intervals
  • Specify which output on the computer the flushing should occur at (only if multiple outputs are available)

Water flow alerts

These setting options in the device info screen are only displayed if a water flow sensor is available. They are a very useful tool for securing the irrigation system. This reduces the risk of damage caused by valves not opening or closing correctly to a minimum. These alarm notifications are independent of the push notifications in the basic settings, which relate to other events not related to water flow. These can be found separately in the Basic Settings chapter.

There are four alarm options to choose from:

Water shut-off failure alert

Occurs when the water flow sensor registers further water flow within a certain time after the valve has been closed. The valve has therefore not been closed properly. This can lead to huge problems and damage if irrigation continues for hours and days and floods occur in your own and surrounding gardens.

Water cut-off or stop flowing alert

Occurs when the water flow sensor does not register any water flow during irrigation. This means that no water is reaching the irrigation computer, e.g. because the tap has been turned off or an upstream pump is not running. In order for the flow to be registered by the sensor, it must be at least 0.18 gallons per minute (11 gallons per hour). This could possibly be undercut for irrigation runs for very small micro-irrigation zones in which, for example, only a few flower pots are watered with drippers. If false alarms occur for such zones, then this option should be deactivated!

Optionally, you can also deactivate the alarm if the irrigation was started directly on the irrigation computer using the blue button (since in this case you would be able to see whether water is flowing or not right there on the scene).

Unusually high flow alert

Occurs when a predefined maximum water flow is exceeded. By default, this is set to 9.25 gallons per minute (555 gallons per hour). This could happen, for example, if there is a leak in the pipeline.

If the event occurs, you can optionally have the valve close automatically. As before, you can also deactivate the alarm here if the irrigation was started directly on the irrigation computer using the blue button.

Unusually low flow alert

Occurs when a predefined minimum water flow is undercut. By default, this is set at 0.53 gallons per minute (32 gallons per hour).

If the event occurs, you can optionally have the valve close automatically. Here, too, you can deactivate the alarm in the event that irrigation is started directly on the irrigation computer using the blue button.

What does an alarm do?

If an alarm event occurs, you automatically receive a push notification on your cell phone and a warning email to the email address stored in your account. Optionally, you can store two additional email addresses to which the alarm notifications should be sent. In this way, you can, for example, also store a neighbor who can then intervene in an emergency if you are not on site.

Important detail: If the system registers one of the four alarm events, the alarm is not triggered immediately, but several control measurements are carried out first. This minimizes the risk of false positive alarms. For this reason, push notifications and emails are sent with a delay of around 10 to 45 seconds.

Flow Meter Correction Factor

Under this point, you have the option of storing an adjustment factor if it turns out that the flow meter always measures a little too high or a little too low in practice. If, for example, the flow is always shown 5% too low, you could change the correction factor to 1.05. Then, instead of the previous measurement, 105% of the previous measurement would be shown.

Advanced Flow Monitoring

In addition to the previously described water flow monitoring options, LinkTap offers advanced water flow monitoring options since the firmware update in June 2025. These are hidden under the “Advanced Flow Monitoring” menu item:

Behind this unassuming term lies a very powerful feature that enables the use of LinkTap flow monitoring for applications beyond traditional garden irrigation.

This specifically applies to irrigation applications where the watering computer does not open and close at a preset time, but rather the valve remains continuously open. Instead, the water flow is controlled by an external device such as a sprinkler with a built-in motion sensor (used to deter unwanted animals), a flow switch, a float valve, or a water level switch. Typical applications include:

  • Refilling water in a pool or pond
  • Sprinklers activated by motion sensors
  • Watering places for animals that refill as needed
  • Monitoring water consumption in the home (faucets left open, pipe bursts)

The diagram below shows a watering schedule. A watering schedule can be programmed with a maximum duration of 23 hours and 59 minutes. The valve will then remain open for almost 24 hours. Within this time period, there may be periods of water flow and periods without water flow.

Watering schedule with periods of water flow and periods without water flow

The previously described flow monitoring options are insufficient for such applications, as they only check that a valve has been correctly closed or opened and whether a certain maximum value is exceeded. However, they cannot be used to analyze whether the individual irrigation phases within a an irrigation run consisting of several stop-and-go phases and the sum of the phases as a whole meet the expectations.

Advanced flow monitoring closes this gap. The following settings can be configured here, covering five different scenarios:

The following things are possible with the five scenarios:

  • Notification or shutdown if a water flow phase lasts too long
  • Notification or shutdown if a certain gallon or liter value is exceeded during a water flow phase
  • Notification or shutdown if all water flow phases combined during an irrigation run exceed a certain duration
  • Notification or shutdown if all water flow phases combined during an irrigation run exceed a certain gallon or liter value
  • Notification if all water flow phases fall below a certain gallon or liter value during an irrigation run

Notifications can be sent either via email or as a push notification on your mobile phone. The settings are made for each zone output, and it is possible to exclude irrigation runs manually initiated by pressing a button on the computer from the rules.

My opinion: A very innovative feature that I have not seen from any other computer manufacturer!

Watering history

This icon provides an overview of the irrigation runs that have taken place over the last 30 days. In addition, the irrigation runs that were skipped due to rainfall or low temperatures are also shown – in a different color. The history can be changed to 60 days or 90 days. By clicking on the download symbol, the data can also be downloaded as a tabular csv file.

By clicking on one of the green daily bars, a detailed view of the relevant irrigation day can be called up, which also shows the exact water quantities/costs and flow rates:

Weather-based control – based on precipitation

The LinkTap software offers two ways to control irrigation depending on the weather. The option “Skip Watering if Rain” is the first of these. You can use two rules to cancel planned irrigation runs:

  • Do not water if the rainfall in the last x hours was over x inches
  • Do not water if the rainfall in the next x hours is over x inches

The rules are checked before the planned start of an irrigation run. As soon as one of the two rules applies, the irrigation run is skipped. This means that it will not take place until the next scheduled time. Unless the weather rule would prevent this again at that time. For the hours, you can choose between 72, 48, 24, 12 and a minimum of 6 hours, and for the amount of rainfall you can freely enter any desired value. To activate weather control, the checkbox must be checked.

Weather-based control – based on temperature

The second value that can be automatically included in the irrigation is the temperature. The temperature is obtained both from a temperature sensor built into all LinkTap computers and online via the weather service.

Weather control via temperature can be carried out in two ways using 4 rules:

  • Increase or reduce the amount of watering if the maximum temperature on the day of watering is below or above a certain value
  • Skip irrigation if the temperature is below a certain value when irrigation starts or if the maximum temperature on the day of watering is below a certain value

The values ​​can be entered freely. Temperature controlled watering is activated by setting the checkbox next to the rule you want to activate. Only rule 3 or rule 4 can be activated, not both together.

Adjust watering duration

Of course, you could also do this simply by adjusting the irrigation program accordingly. However, this function gives you the option of adjusting the length of the irrigation without having to change the program.

This can be useful, for example, if you have created your program based on the warmest month and it is now late summer and the irrigation requirement is correspondingly lower. In this way, you can leave the program that works well as it is and simply adjust it by a certain control value, which you can then remove later.

Other competitors call this option “seasonal adjustment”, although the competitor does this on a global level for all valves. With LinkTap, it is done on the level of the individual computer/output. On the one hand, this gives you more flexibility, but on the other hand it is also more cumbersome because if you use multiple computers/outputs you have to make these settings several times. An additional option to be able to set this on a global level would be desirable here. I sent this point to LinkTap as a suggestion for improvement and received feedback that they will look into it. This may be added accordingly for future updates.

A special feature of LinkTap is that the adjustment factor can be set in minutes as well as in percent. When you set the adjustment, you are immediately shown how the running times change as a result. A downward adjustment of up to 1% of the original running time is possible, and an upward adjustment of up to three times the original running time is possible.

Pause device

Gives you the option of pausing the watering computer/output for 6, 12, 24, 48, 72 hours or until further notice. This can be useful, for example, if you have to do some work in the garden for a few days and therefore don’t want watering. Or before the end of the season to shut down the computer until the start of the next season.

Note: This function is also available at a global level for all managed watering computers/outputs. I will introduce this option further down.

Global functions (affect all computers/outputs)

In contrast to the functions presented previously, which are always defined for each watering computer or output, these functions apply to all watering computers/outputs stored in the app. These functions are located in a common menu bar at the top of the app:

I will present the functionalities behind it in the following:

View local weather

The local weather for today and the forecast for the next 6 days can be called up under the weather icon. The weather information is obtained from Apple Weather and is the basis for weather-controlled irrigation. The weather information depends on the stored location. LinkTap does not currently offer the option of using data from your own weather station.

Display of the currently irrigating devices

Shows which of the irrigation computers/outputs are currently in use. If a water flow meter is present, the current flow rate is also displayed.

Pause all devices

Pauses all irrigation computers/outputs. The same selections are available here as at the individual computer level.

Resume all devices

Cancels an existing pause for all devices.

There are three more icons hidden behind the three-dot symbol.

Irrigation history for all devices

Displays the completed irrigation runs collectively for all computers/outputs.

If you click on one of the daily bars, you can see a detailed list of the irrigation runs that have taken place:

Irrigation plan for all devices

Shows the scheduled irrigation runs collectively for all computers/outputs.

Batch Watering

Enables instant watering using multiple computers/outputs. For example, you can have watering computers/outputs 1 to 4 watered at the same time. However, you should make sure that there is enough water for simultaneous watering.

Or you can have watering computer 1 watered first and then computer 3, etc. etc. When watering in succession, you can choose between three rules to set the pause between runs:

  • Time – You set a fixed time at which the watering run begins
  • Delay 1 – You set a specific time period after the start of the group watering at which the watering run begins
  • Delay 2 – You set a specific time period at the end of the watering run of the previously running device at which the watering run begins

You can create up to 4 such batch waterings. You can switch between batch waterings 1 to 4 using the … symbol in the top right!

A small inconvenience: Even if you want to enter your irrigation runs in minutes, you still have to fill in the seconds field (with 0) for the entry to be accepted. However, this is not a major problem and will probably be improved in future software versions.

With group irrigation, you can also optionally divide the irrigation runs into irrigation and waiting phases using Eco mode.

The checkbox “Add a shortcut to the home page” means that an additional start and stop button for batch irrigation is displayed in the main menu. This is useful if you want to use the batch irrigation you have created in the same way again and again.

Basic Settings

These are settings that do not refer to the irrigation computer, but apply to the entire app. You can access them by clicking on the gear symbol in the top left.

The following basic settings can be accessed and changed here:

I describe the possible settings below:

Language, Date Format, Time Format, Temperature Unit, Rainfall Unit, Volume Unit, Currency Symbol

During the initial setup, the app recognizes which country you are from and stores the language, temperature unit (degrees Celsius, degrees Kelvin), precipitation unit (millimeters or inches), volume unit (liters or gallons), currency symbol and the usual format for date and time. If you want to change these, you can do so under the corresponding menu items.

Appearance

Here the appearance of the app can be changed from a light to a dark background.

Gateway, Watering Device/Extender

Other gateways and irrigation computers can be added here.

By clicking on the following symbol, a topology of the LinkTap devices can also be called up:

This shows the devices in the LinkTap system and how they are connected to each other. By moving the devices in the diagram, you can arrange them logically. This allows you to create a graphical overview of the relationships in the system, especially for larger systems.

Device Health Check

Here you can view a history of the last 14 days regarding the connection status of the gateway and watering computer, signal strength and battery charge level. This is particularly useful if a problem occurs and you are looking for the cause.

Weather Forecast

By default, a forecast for the next 7 days is set, alternatively this can be changed so that the next 4 and the past 3 days are displayed.

First Day of the Week

Allows you to choose whether the week should start on Monday (= default) or Sunday. The display of the watering plans is adjusted accordingly.

Push Notification

The LinkTap software offers the option of being automatically informed about a series of events. All of these notifications are activated by default. In addition, there are warning notifications related to the water flow for devices with a water flow sensor. These are managed directly in the watering computer menu. I have already introduced these notifications above.

Notifications can be enabled or disabled for 9 events:

  • Notification when an irrigation run starts
  • Notification when an irrigation run ends
  • Notification when an irrigation run is suspended due to rain
  • Notification when an irrigation run is suspended due to low temperatures
  • Notification when the computer’s battery level is low
  • Notification when the gateway goes online or has been offline for more than 6 hours
  • Notification when the irrigation computer goes online or has been offline for more than 6 hours
  • Notification of temperatures below freezing (freeze warning)
  • Notification when you have locked the blue manual irrigation run button(s) on the computer and someone presses these buttons.

My Profile

Gives you the option to change the user name and password selected during registration and the email address stored.

Share My LinkTap Devices

An important menu item that allows you to give up to 6 other people access to the LinkTap software. This means that other family members can access it, or you can also give your neighbor access while you are on vacation, for example.

To do this, simply enter the email address of the person you want to invite:

The person then receives an email with an invitation link and then registers for guest access with their own username and password. Access can be made either via the app (previous download required) or directly by logging in to the LinkTap website without the need for a download. As soon as the invited person accepts the invitation and logs in for the first time, the inviting account is notified of this by email.

Guest access contains more or less the same functionalities as the main account. This means that new programs can also be created and modified, or various settings can be changed. The only two things that I noticed as limitations are inviting other users yourself and changing the settings for alerts. LinkTap does not differentiate between full access and restricted access, as is common with some competitors.

The invited users are displayed in the app:

You can also revoke access from the invited people or delete them completely. The first option is useful if the user may be granted access again later, the other option if that is not the case.

FAQ/Feedback/App User Manual/About

These four menu items do exactly what they are named after:

  • FAQ – Opens the FAQ page on the LinkTap homepage
  • Feedback – Opens an email addressed to support@link-tap.com
  • App User Manual – Links to the current version of the PDF user manual. As I discovered myself, this is not always completely up to date. Some functions from the app were still missing from the description.
  • About – Shows the app version currently being used. Depending on the settings on the phone, the app is automatically updated as soon as a new version is available or can be updated manually. At the time of this report, the app used was the following:

Gateway settings

You can access the gateway-specific settings by clicking on the blue arrow to the right in the main menu:

All gateway settings can be viewed and changed here:

Here is a description:

Name

Here you can give the gateway a name.

ID/MAC Address/IP Address

The internal ID, MAC address and IP address of the gateway are displayed here.

Status

Shows the connection status of the gateway. This can be connected, not connected or not synchronized.

Turn off lights on the gateway

If you activate this option, the three indicator lights on the gateway will only light up for 1 minute if everything is working correctly and then turn off.

Local Time and Location

Here you can change the local time by selecting a time zone and the location where the gateway is located. The location is relevant for obtaining the correct weather information.

Volume or costs in the irrigation history

By default, the gallons of water used are displayed. Alternatively, you can change this to irrigation costs.

Water Price

The water price applicable at the irrigation location can be stored here. The irrigation costs are then calculated based on this price. If you don’t have any water costs, e.g. because you get the water from your own well, you could still enter the water costs of the local water supplier and in this way show the cost savings from your own well.

Displayed flow rate

By default, the last flow rate of an irrigation run is displayed. This can be changed to the average flow rate.

Weather data retention period for the “Rain Skip” function

The current weather data is retrieved from the Apple WeatherKit weather service a few minutes before the start of an irrigation run. If weather control is activated, this can lead to the irrigation run being skipped (“Rain Skip”). This retrieved weather data is stored for 6 hours by default. This means that if another irrigation run were to take place within 6 hours, the data would not be retrieved again for it, but the stored data would be used instead.

This storage time can alternatively be changed to 12, 18 or 24 hours. This could be useful in conjunction with an automatic water distributor if you want to ensure that stopping the first watering run always results in the stopping of subsequent runs or that carrying out the first watering run also results in the subsequent runs being carried out.

Device Sleep Mode

You can choose between Power save mode (= standard) and Performance mode. In Performance mode, the maximum response time of 5 seconds is slightly shorter than the 15 seconds in power save mode. In return, the battery life is shorter in performance mode.

Wireless Module

Here you can call up the Zigbee channel number used by LinkTap or reset the wireless module so that it selects a new Zigbee channel number.

Scan and Manually Set Channel

This gives you the option of manually selecting a Zigbee channel. This can be useful if there are problems with the automatically selected channel. After the scan, the system shows you the available channels with a percentage of their suitability.

Firmware version

Shows the software version used for the gateway.

Gateway auto firmware update

Is enabled by default so that the gateway is automatically updated when new versions are available. If you do not want this, the option can be disabled.

LinkTap internal functions

This has now described all functionalities, except for those in the menu bar shown at the bottom of the app.

In my opinion, this contains rather minor functions that mainly concern internal LinkTap matters and some of which have already been offered elsewhere in the app:

  • ? symbol: Link to FAQs and instructional videos
  • Shopping cart symbol: Link to the LinkTap web shop
  • Rating symbol: Link to the LinkTap product rating page
  • Mail symbol: Contact option via email and link to the LinkTap Facebook page
  • First aid kit symbol: Link to the device status check, in which the connection data to the gateway and irrigation computer, as well as signal strength and battery charge level for the last 14 days is tracked
  • Bell symbol: Here you can access the notifications received in the last 14 days

Interfaces

Amazon Alexa

The LinkTap skill makes it possible to carry out some computer activities or query information via Amazon Alexa. An overview of these options can be found on the page https://www.link-tap.com/#!/alexa.

Google Home

LinkTap could also be controlled with Google Home until September 2023, but with a very limited range of functions. However, Google Home is currently no longer supported. However, integration into Google Home is possible via the detour of using IFTTT (If this than that). How this works is explained on the LinkTap homepage.

Apple Homekit

Apple Homekit is not natively supported, but a connection is possible via the detour Homebridge.

Program interfaces (APIs)

Very positive: LinkTap currently offers 11 APIs with which program functionalities can be called up or executed from third parties. This enables a connection to a large number of external automation systems. The following functionalities are currently possible via API:

  • Activate/deactivate irrigation
  • Activate interval mode
  • Activate even-odd mode
  • Activate seven-day mode
  • Activate month mode
  • Activate calendar mode
  • Pause irrigation schedule
  • Delete alarm
  • Retrieve historical irrigation data from the last 30 days
  • Set a webhook URL to receive various events (e.g. irrigation start, irrigation end, …)
  • Delete webhook URL

Conclusion and recommendation

Since I tested the LinktTap software for the blog for the first time in 2020, it has been improved in many areas and numerous functions have been added. In principle, it is a very positive sign when software is being actively developed. Most competitors are doing very little in this regard.

The software now makes a very good, mature impression to me. The LinkTap software developers are likely to have their ears very close to the customer and actively incorporate customer feedback into the development. In my view, this is a very positive approach and is reflected in the software in some details that are not found in competitors, but which make sense in practice. As an example, some detailed settings that can be made in conjunction with the automatic water distributor from Gardena are mentioned. This can make life a lot easier in practice.

One certain drawback is the lack of the ability to connect sensors, for example to control irrigation based on values ​​measured by a soil moisture sensor. In this respect, other systems sometimes offer very extensive options.

However, the integrated weather-controlled irrigation system is in some ways a replacement for the need for sensors, as it actively incorporates rain and temperature into the control system and thus replaces a rain or temperature sensor. Only the soil moisture sensor cannot be replaced 1:1 using weather data (Update: The possibility of using a soil moisture sensor is planned, see future outlook!)

On the other hand, the possibility of using a water flow sensor is very positive. This is a very useful way of protecting irrigation against dangers and LinkTap offers comparatively inexpensive options for integrating such a sensor. In some models, it is already on board as standard or it can be added for comparatively little money.

The API interfaces that LinkTap provides are also great. This also enables LinkTap to be connected to various external home automation solutions.

One small downside is that you cannot use your own weather station to obtain the weather. Hydrawise and B-hyve offer this and it would also be an important improvement for LinkTap. (Update: It is in the planning stages, see future outlook!)

All in all, the LinkTap system is currently a very successful and highly recommended system.

Future outlook

During my research for this blog post, I also asked LinkTap about the status of the software’s further development and received a very positive response, stating that they are currently working on a number of additional features suggested by users.

For example, in the foreseeable future, it will be possible to integrate your own weather station into the software.

And two wireless soil moisture sensors are currently being developed that can measure not only soil moisture but also humidity and temperature. These sensors are expected to be on the market in about six months.

Comparison with competitors

Compared to the Gardena Smart System, which has seen very little development for years and is limited to the absolute basic functions with a little weather control, LinkTap is now miles ahead in terms of software. The only understandable reasons in my view why you might consider choosing Gardena instead would be that you already control other devices such as the lawnmower in the Gardena Smart System and want to control everything in a common system, or that you rate the comparatively slightly more water pressure-saving design of the Gardena Smart Water Control (less narrow inlet) as highly important.

LinkTap also remains clearly first compared to the Rain Bird Smart Watering System, although it should be noted that this is only available for irrigation computers for controlling external solenoid valves. The Rain Bird Smart Watering System is rather disappointing, especially in terms of weather control.

In terms of functionality, LinkTap does not quite reach the level of my personal favorite, Hunter Hydrawise. Hydrawise simply offers even more extensive weather control functions, the option of using your own weather station and extensive options for integrating sensors. Hydrawise also only has computers for controlling external solenoid valves, but no faucet control irrigation computers.

Compared to Orbit B-hyve, I would now rate the LinkTap system higher. B-hyve is also very extensive and well thought out, but it follows a completely different principle, where most things are done using autopilot and the user has much less opportunity to intervene independently. I like LinkTap’s approach much better, but that is partly a matter of taste. LinkTap’s significantly higher hardware quality compared to Orbit B-hyve products also speaks for itself. In return, however, Orbit can of course score points with a comparatively very low price.

The last of the big competitors, Opensprinkler, is in a different league to a certain extent. Opensprinkler is also rated very highly in terms of functionality and, above all, offers an open source concept, both for the software and the hardware. If you want that or want to implement very independent solutions, then OpenSprinkler is a hot tip. OpenSprinkler also only offers a computer to control external solenoid valves.

Der Beitrag Overview of the functionality of the LinkTap app erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

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