Skip to main content
Bunnings Warehouse
Lowest Price Policy^
Free delivery* withOnePass_Icon.svg

How to choose an automatic watering system

A variety of Holman smart irrigation devices.

Overview

Automatic irrigation systems offer consistent and customisable watering that can be controlled by your phone, making it easy and efficient, and also reducing water wastage. Automatic watering systems can also utilise technology like soil moisture sensors and weather stations, taking the guesswork out of watering.

We’re sharing advice on the different systems available to help you choose the right one for you.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

  1. 1

    Two types of systems to choose from

    There are two main types of automatic watering systems to choose from: battery-operated and solenoid valves.

    Battery-operated systems are attached directly on to your tap and can be programmed to regulate the amount of water you want delivered to different zones of your garden and when you want it delivered. They’re ideal for small-scale irrigation areas or for locations where access to electrical power is limited or impractical.

    Solenoid valves (electromechanically-operated valves) use electricity to control the flow of water in your automatic irrigation system. They connect to a central controller and send electrical signals to open or close the valves in your garden. Solenoid valves are good for larger spaces that require durability and precision. They offer precise control over irrigation timing, duration and distribution.

    Both systems can operate wired or wirelessly, and both can be controlled via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Battery-operated systems are generally easier to install and maintain than solenoid valves.

  2. 2

    Using Bluetooth systems

    Bluetooth systems allow you to set up flexible watering schedules with the touch of a button, making it easy and efficient. The only thing to be mindful of is that you will need to be within close proximity of the tap timer for it to connect with the Bluetooth on your phone.

    To use Bluetooth to control your automatic watering system, download the auto watering app included in your system to your smartphone and set it up. This will allow you to water at the touch of a button.

    You can set up a watering schedule by pre-selecting days and times for your watering system to automatically turn on. You can also customise different watering zones depending on the vegetation you have and what kind of watering each zone needs.

    Attaching a Bluetooth Tap Timer to the tap and a hose in the lawn.
  3. 3

    Using Wi-Fi systems

    Wi-Fi systems can be operated from anywhere with a Wi-Fi signal, which is a key advantage over Bluetooth systems.

    Wi-Fi systems are easy to set up and can provide information about your water usage through water tracking, which helps save water and money. They also offer inbuilt weather forecast functionality so you can update your watering needs based off the upcoming forecast. 

  4. 4

    Installing a soil moisture sensor

    Installing an automated soil moisture sensor will provide real-time updates on both your soil moisture levels and temperature, removing guesswork and manual legwork. This app makes it easy to know the best time to plant and it can help you make smarter choices about when and how much to water, helping you avoid over- or under-watering. Most moisture sensor apps are compatible with smart tap timers.

    Installing Smart Moisture Sensor in the lawn.
  5. 5

    Installing a weather station

    Installing a weather station helps you stay up-to-date on real-time local weather conditions. They offer a variety of features to keep you informed on temperature, humidity levels, rainfall, wind, sunlight intensity, UV index, frost alerts and more. This will help you know when to harvest, plant or protect your fruits and vegies. It will also help you know when to water.

  6. 6

    Consider a water tank

    Check out our D.I.Y. guide on how to choose a water tank.
Logo - Workshop - Bunnings Branded - Transparent
Icon - Website - Workshop lightbulbGet InspiredQuestionsAsk QuestionsSpeech bubblesShare Projects
Bunnings Workshop is an online community for D.I.Y. and gardening discussion. Get your questions answered at workshop.bunnings.com.au
link-outJoin the discussion

Get inspired by projects from the Bunnings Workshop community

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.