Bewässerungscomputer Test 2020: Die besten Modelle im Vergleich

Arten von Bewässerungscomputern

Zunächst gilt es

• Bewässerungsuhren und
• Bewässerungscomputer

Lesen Sie auch

• Druckloser Bewässerungscomputer Test 2020: Die besten Modelle im Vergleich
• Bewässerungscomputer mit Feuchtigkeitssensor Test 2020: Die besten Modelle im Vergleich
• Irrigation computer with rain sensor test 2020: the best models in comparison

to distinguish. Both types can be further subdivided.

Water clocks:

• mechanically
• electronically

Irrigation computer:

• classic (without extras)
• with humidity and / or rain sensor (connection)

In the following we will go into a little more detail on all genres.

Watering clocks put to the test

our recommendation

Jeteven automatic irrigation clock water timer, timer timer LCD display digital automatic time-saving irrigation with waterproof protective cover for garden, greenhouse, agriculture

23.99 EUR To the product

Bewässerungsuhren lassen sich einfach programmieren. Man benötigt keine speziellen Programmierkenntnisse, um sie für eine automatische Bewässerung zu stellen. Jeder Mensch, der im Laufe seines Lebens schon einmal einen Küchentimer bedient hat (das dürfte auf die meisten Leser unseres Artikels zutreffen), wird sich auch leicht tun, eine Bewässerungsuhr praktisch anzuwenden.

Hobbygärtner greifen gerne zu einer Bewässerungsuhr, um einen einfachen und sehr günstigen technischen Helfer zur automatischen Bewässerung des Gartens (Rasen und Pflanzen) zu haben. Sie müssen den Bewässerungstimer lediglich an den Wasserhahn anschließen und daraufhin nach Bedarf stellen. Für diese Aufgaben brauchen Sie keinen Fachmann.

Im Vergleich zu richtigen Bewässerungscomputern sind die einstellbaren Zeiten relativ unflexibel. Die Bewässerung kann auf eine Minute bis maximal zwei Stunden getimt werden. Den meisten Anwendern genügt das, größere Grünanlagen verlangen jedoch mehr.

Als Nachteil sind auch die langen Intervalle anzusehen: Je nach Modell liegen zwischen zwei Bewässerungsvorgängen immer mindestens 24 Stunden bis sieben Tage. Wie Sie wissen, kann eine Woche ziemlich lang sein. Das ergeht anspruchsvollen Pflanzen ganz genauso. Sie benötigen Wasser in kürzeren Abständen.

Tipps

Die meisten Bewässerungsuhren besitzen einen bis maximal zwei Drehknöpfe zur Einstellung der Bewässerungshäufigkeit und -dauer. Man bezeichnet diese praktischen Geräte häufig auch als Bewässerungstimer. Wundern Sie sich also nicht, wenn Sie beim Vergleichen hin und wieder auf den Begriff stoßen.

Before we turn to the subspecies of the watering clock (i.e. mechanical and electrical), here are the general advantages and disadvantages at a glance:

advantages

• Easy handling
• Simple installation
• Individually adjustable
• Extremely inexpensive

disadvantage

• Switch-on delay possible
• Inflexible times
• Long intervals

Mechanical watering clocks put to the test

our recommendation

Gardena watering clock: automatic timer for taps 26.5 mm (G 3/4) or 33.3 mm (G1), flexible watering time (5-120 min), easy connection thanks to the quick-connect system (1169-20)

20.99 EUR To the product

The most important properties of mechanical watering clocks in brief:

• also called watering timer
• mechanically operated
• Pressure cannot be regulated
• no switch-on delay
• no energy supply
• no automatic start of watering
• automatic stop of watering
• maximum watering time of two hours
• Watering interval of at least 24 hours
• just a knob

Electronic watering clocks being tested

our recommendation

Royal Gardineer irrigation computer: digital irrigation computer BWC-200 with 2 connections (automatic irrigation)

32.95 EUR To the product

The most important properties of electronic watering clocks in brief:

• also called a watering machine
• electronically operated
• Adjustable pressure
• Switch-on delay of up to twelve hours
• Energy supply by batteries (usually two AA batteries with 1.5 volts each are required)
• automatic start of watering
• automatic stop of watering
• maximum watering time of two hours
• Watering intervals of at least one hour up to a week are possible
• two knobs

Even if electronic watering clocks are a bit more advanced than mechanical watering timers, they are not yet real watering computers.

We will take a closer look at the latter in the next few paragraphs.

Water computer in the test

our recommendation

Hunter irrigation computer, X-Core 601i 6 stations (indoor)

65.30 EUR To the product

Compared to watering clocks, watering computers usually have a lot more functions. They are also more versatile in use. Professional gardeners usually prefer such a system, but ambitious hobby gardeners also benefit from the advantages of a watering computer.

The rigid times, which are a major disadvantage of the watering clocks, are eliminated with the watering computers. You can reduce or increase both the exact watering times and the intervals between the individual waterings as you wish. Even multiple waterings in one day are easily possible.

Even the most experienced and attentive professional gardener can sometimes forget a watering session that is due. You can avoid this problem with a watering computer. The helpful device never forgets anything. It takes care of everything, i.e. watering the entire garden - even if you are on vacation or are away for some time for other reasons.

The installation of a watering computer is easy: all you have to do is connect it to the tap and garden hose using the appropriate connections. In this sense, the computer acts as a “mediator” between the two elements.

In most cases, water computers are operated by a battery, which is often not included in the scope of delivery. At first glance, this point appears to be a disadvantage. However, if you take a closer look, you can see that the fact that the battery is missing does not matter. It can be bought online at reasonable prices. In addition, it usually lasts for at least a year.

Not all watering computers are created equal. There are different subspecies or variants:

• classic models without extras
• Versions with humidity and / or rain sensor

Before we explain the most important characteristics of the different types, we want to briefly summarize the basic advantages and disadvantages of irrigation computers:

advantages

• Flexible times
• Individually adjustable
• Often there is a connection for a sensor

disadvantage

• More expensive to buy
• Battery mostly not included

Classic irrigation computers without extras in the test

our recommendation

Ultranatura watering computer with LC display, ideal for watering flowers, watering lawns, etc., watering control with one output and four watering cycles

30.99 EUR To the product

The classic irrigation computers come without specific extras - that means they have no connections for a humidity and / or rain sensor. Such models are comparatively cheap and are characterized by all the features of an irrigation computer described (see above).

Tips

Depending on the specific design, more or fewer setting options are available to you with a conventionally constructed watering computer. Be careful when buying.

Irrigation computer with humidity and / or rain sensor in the test

our recommendation

Gardena Irrigation Computer MultiControl duo: Automatic irrigation control, programmable weekdays, up to 3 waterings per day, with LC display (1874-20)

92.94 EUR To the product

If you want a particularly sustainable watering computer, we recommend that you buy a model that has connections for a moisture and / or rain sensor. Ideally, the sensors mentioned are part of the scope of delivery. Otherwise you can buy them separately if you have existing connections.

What is the big advantage of such weather sensors? In cooperation with the irrigation computer, they ensure that your lawn and plants are supplied with the optimal amount of water at all times. You never get a drop too much (but also not too little!).

A pleasant side effect: The perfect “dosage” of the water for the garden has an extremely positive effect on your annual water bill. In short, a sensor helps to efficiently save water when watering your own green area (s).

What is a humidity sensor?

• This sensor is positioned between the plants in the garden.
• At regular intervals, it measures the degree of soil moisture.
• The watering computer only activates watering if the determined value is lower than the setpoint you have set.

What is a rain sensor?

• The location of this sensor is the same as that of the humidity sensor.
• It determines precipitation based on the humidity.
• When it rains, the watering computer stops watering.

Note: Basically, it should be noted at this point that you do not necessarily need a moisture and / or rain sensor to operate a watering computer. However, the sensors support the precise watering of the garden. This also prevents unnecessary waste of valuable resources.

Tips

Always remember that the supposedly most natural good on earth - water - is becoming increasingly scarce, and deal with it accordingly. For garden owners, a watering computer with weather sensors can be of great help in this mission.

But: A sensor doesn't always make sense, as this practical example shows: You want to collect rainwater in a controlled manner? Then you should buy a watering computer without a rain sensor.

Further purchase criteria

our recommendation

Kärcher 2.645-219.0 Automatic irrigation system WT 5

48.99 EUR To the product

When buying a watering computer, you need to consider a few criteria:

• Type of system
• Thread and pressure
• Weather sensors
• Irrigation Cycles
• Watering duration
• Irrigation frequency
• automatic on / off
• Display
• Battery level indicator
• WiFi / Bluetooth capability
• scope of delivery

Type of system

First, decide whether you only need a watering clock or a real watering computer. You can take a look at the features of both systems above.

Thread and pressure

What about the connections on the computer? Do they support a water valve or a faucet? Is the computer also compatible with a rain barrel?

If you want to connect the computer to a tap, the thread and pressure of the connection must be analyzed.

Note: Most watering computers come with the threads

• G 3/4 (diameter of 26.5 millimeters) and
• G 1 (diameter of 33.3 millimeters)

compatible. Normally, a water pressure of 0.5 to twelve bar is supported.

Weather sensors

our recommendation

Gardena rain sensor electronic: rain sensor includes precipitation in irrigation, measures around the clock, water-saving and ecological, battery-operated (1189-20)

42.47 EUR To the product

The watering computer should have a sensor connection. It is brilliant when a weather sensor is also included.

Irrigation Cycles

Which watering cycle does the respective model allow? In other words: how quickly can the next irrigation cycle start? Only after a week, after a day or even after a few hours? What do you need for your plants?

Note: Most devices allow two to three waterings per day. And more is generally not needed.

Watering duration

What is the maximum adjustable watering duration? Just an hour or even ten? In principle, the following applies here again: The more options (flexibility) you have, the better it is. For a small garden, two hours are sufficient.

Watering frequency

How often would you like to water your green oasis with the device? Compare the watering computers for this feature and make sure that the model of your choice fits your needs.

Automatic on / off

At best, the watering computer is able to independently start and stop watering (ONLY possible with real watering computers, NOT with watering clocks).

Display

our recommendation

Kazeila Water Computer Water Clock Digital Programmable Garden Lawn Faucet Computer Hose Faucet Sprinkler Clock Watering System Controller Automatic Watering

33.99 EUR To the product

The selected device should have a clear display on which you can easily check and configure all values. A model that is as large as possible is advantageous here.

Battery level indicator

It makes things easier when the watering computer has a battery level indicator so you can replace it in good time. This is the only way to prevent the device from temporarily impairing its functionality.

WiFi / Bluetooth capability

It doesn't have to be, but it is a nice feature: to operate the irrigation computer using the smartphone. This requires WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity.

scope of delivery

The larger the scope of delivery, the better. Ideally, you will receive your device including a user manual in several languages, a detachable display, sensor connection and sensor as well as a battery. Unfortunately, you often have to order the sensor and battery separately. A lithium-ion battery is only always included with solar-powered irrigation computers.

What brands are there?

our recommendation

Gardena Irrigation Control Select: Automatic and time-saving irrigation, flexible irrigation thanks to 3 schedules, Water Now function (1891-20)

47.99 EUR To the product

Here is an overview of well-known brands that offer irrigation computers:

• Hunter
• Arduino
• Royal curtain
• Rain Bird
• Kärcher
• Gardena

You can find irrigation computers in well-stocked gardening and building supplies stores, offline and online. In addition, several online mail order companies are available as sources of supply, above all Amazon.

How do I care for a watering computer?

Important tips for treating and maintaining a watering computer:

• Remove dust and other dirt from the device at regular intervals. For this purpose, it is best to use a slightly damp cloth and, if necessary (rarely ...), a touch of washing-up liquid. Caution: DO NOT use aggressive detergents and do not use cleaning sponges with very rough surfaces (steel wool etc.). These utensils could attack and damage the housing.
• Never hold the Water Computer under running water. Although it is usually waterproof (since it is designed for outdoor use), it cannot be completely ruled out that high water pressure will cause moisture to penetrate the inside of the computer and possibly cause irreversible damage to the sensitive technology.
• If possible, install the device in a dry and sheltered location in the garden. It is also important to avoid direct sunlight - it could seriously affect the frame, which is made of plastic in most cases, over time. Exception: An irrigation computer with a solar battery “naturally” needs plenty of sunlight. A dry microfiber cloth is the ideal tool for cleaning the solar cells.
• Check the charge level of the battery or the rechargeable battery again and again so that you can change it at an early stage and maintain perfect operation over the long term. It is practical that many irrigation computers are equipped with a display for the charge status so that you can always keep an eye on it.
• In winter (no more watering required), store the watering computer in a dry, well-ventilated, but frost-free place. The computer needs to be cleaned thoroughly beforehand. The weather sensors (if any) also want proper (and clean) storage.
• Generally elementary: Read and follow the manufacturer's care instructions!
• Any maintenance and repair work on the watering computer should always be entrusted to a trained specialist. Never lend a hand, otherwise the manufacturer's guarantee will usually expire immediately.

Which accessories are useful?

our recommendation

Gardena Comfort FLEX hose 13 mm (1/2 inch), 30 m: Dimensionally stable, flexible garden hose with Power-Grip profile, made of high-quality spiral fabric, 25 bar burst pressure, without system parts (18036-20)

27.99 EUR To the product

The best add-ons for a classic irrigation computer are rain and moisture sensors. But they may already be part of the scope of delivery, that would be the best option.

In addition, you logically need an irrigation system or the mandatory water tap and a garden hose.

frequently asked Questions

What is a water computer?

A watering computer is a programmable device that saves you a lot of watering work. The practical aid ensures the automatic watering of your garden plants - from lawns to trees and bushes to flower beds each “department” receives the correct amount of water specified by you. Once set up, the watering computer supplies your greenery without any further action - consistently on the individually specified days at the desired hours.

What is the difference between a water computer and a water clock?

First of all, what they have in common: With both devices you regulate the watering times and cycles. Compared to a watering clock, a watering computer offers a much larger range of functions.

How does a water computer work?

In a nutshell: you attach the irrigation computer between the tap and the garden hose and program it. It then fully automatically ensures that the lawn is watered at the desired times.

Somewhat more detailed: after connecting the watering computer to the tap and hose, configure the watering cycles according to your needs. This is really not rocket science, but just as simple as using a pocket calculator.

Practical: With very high quality watering computers, you can make a variety of settings and comprehensively regulate watering.

According to the programming, the automatic system of the computer opens the valve of the tap as soon as it is at the (set) time. The water flows and irrigates the lawn via a hose. After the watering time you specified, the computer immediately closes the valve so that the water supply is interrupted.

Tips

An irrigation computer with so-called soil moisture or rain sensors is particularly luxurious. Then the computer “learns” from the assistant when the soil is moist enough and it can end the irrigation cycle (and vice versa also when the lawn needs to be watered again).

Who will benefit from a watering computer?

Anyone who owns a lawn but has little time to care for it is doing themselves and their green space a great favor with an irrigation computer.

Here is an overview of the many advantages that such a device brings with it:

• Time savings (the watering computer does the work for you; you don't even have to be home and you don't have to worry about watering your lawn even when you're on vacation)
• optimal care (if programmed correctly, the computer ensures absolutely reliable and even watering of the green area; this means that even more sensitive plants grow well and do not perish; in contrast to humans, the computer is not forgetful ...)
• Economical use of resources (you only ever use as much water as you have programmed into the computer; the computer ensures that not a single drop is wasted; the environment also benefits)

A watering computer with a moisture or rain sensor also prevents too much or unnecessary water from flowing.

Note: In larger agricultural and horticultural businesses, in public parks and gardens, as well as in football stadiums, on golf courses and other sports-related areas, irrigation computers have long been used. They are also being used more and more frequently in private gardens.

How much does a water computer cost?

our recommendation

Royal Gardineer timer faucet: Mechanical watering timer, up to 120 minutes, 3/4 "thread (watering timer)

8.95 EUR To the product

It's hard to believe: very simple automatic irrigation systems are available from around ten euros. These simple models "only" turn the tap on and off. If you want a fully programmable water computer, you will of course have to dig a little deeper into your pocket. Here is a price overview that you can use as a guide:

• mechanical watering clock: from approx. 10 EUR
• electronic watering clock: from approx. 20 EUR
• Electronic watering clock for rain barrels: (149.95 € at Amazon *) from approx. 40 EUR
• digital irrigation computer: from approx. 40 EUR
• digital irrigation computer with two connections: from approx. 70 EUR

Well-functioning water computers cost up to 200 euros.