We've gotten a few questions from you guys about ideal setups, recommended equipment, and more when using the OpenSprinkler integration. This article includes a list of necessary equipment—such as water sources, valves, and pumps—with some instructions and best practices. With this setup, users can schedule & automate irrigation events by using Pulse Hub's volumetric water content (VWC) data directly in the Pulse app, enabling precise and efficient crop steering.
What you’ll need
Water source (choose one)
Demand pump
Demand pumps turn on automatically when your valves open. The pump turns itself off again when it senses pressure building in the delivery line due to closed valves.
Pressured city water
No pump required
Example: regular hose spigot, used in tap water applications.
Valves (one per irrigation zone)
Irrigation valves physically control the flow of water. They can vary in quality depending on the type.
Solenoid valves: Easy to find (Home Depot, Floraflex) and affordable, but less reliable.
Example: Floraflex 1” Nylon Valve
Motorized ball valves: Less common & more expensive, but more reliable.
Must be “Auto Return Closed” style (the valve closes when unpowered)
Example: Bucket Co. Motorized Valve
Irrigation controller
Requires WiFi internet connection.
Make sure to get the correct version for your valve style (AC/DC/Latch). 24V AC are most common.
Automation
Automate your irrigation schedule based on live soil moisture readings.
Pick a valve, watering duration, and minimum VWC percentage to activate an irrigation automatically. Water your plants exactly when they need it.
FAQ & Best practices
Use Y filters before each of your valves to reduce blockages.
Create a loop at the end of your irrigation lines to increase the consistency of water pressure to the drippers.
Use air bleed valves at the end of your runs to avoid air locks.
Use check/non-return valves to keep your pump primed