A rain sensor prevents your Calgary sprinkler system from running during or immediately after a rainstorm — automatically skipping the scheduled cycle when it's not needed. In a city like Calgary where summer rain is sporadic and sometimes heavy, a rain sensor can save significant water and prevent overwatering stress on your lawn.
Calgary Rain Sensors — Types, Cost, and Performance
| Sensor Type | How It Works | Calgary Cost Installed |
|---|---|---|
| Basic wired rain sensor (Hunter Rain-Clik) | Disc expands when wet, breaks circuit to controller — system won't start until disc dries | $50-$90 installed |
| Wireless rain sensor | Same disc mechanism, sends wireless signal to receiver at controller — no wiring needed | $90-$150 installed |
| Smart controller (Rachio, Hydrawise) | Uses local weather station data — skips based on actual rainfall AND forecast; also adjusts run times based on ET | $350-$600 installed |
For most Calgary homeowners, a smart controller is more value than a standalone rain sensor — it goes further by also adjusting run times based on temperature and evapotranspiration, not just skipping on rain days. A Rachio 3 controller can reduce Calgary water use by 25-35% vs a standard timer, while a rain sensor alone saves only 10-15%. J.G. Irrigation installs both options. Call 587-433-4795 to discuss which is right for your system.
Is a rain sensor required by Calgary bylaws for irrigation systems?
Rain sensors are not specifically required by City of Calgary bylaws, but water efficiency is a stated goal of Calgary's water use policies. During Stage 1-2 restrictions, smart controllers with weather-based skip functionality are strongly encouraged. new irrigation systems installed by J.G. Irrigation include a rain sensor or smart controller as standard. Call 587-433-4795 to add a rain sensor to your existing system.
Rain Sensor or Smart Controller — Calgary Install Available
J.G. Irrigation — Calgary Irrigation Services
- Sprinkler Installation Calgary
- Sprinkler Blowout Calgary
- Spring Irrigation Startup Calgary
- Sprinkler Repair Calgary
- Landscape Lighting Calgary
- Commercial Irrigation Calgary
- Roofline Lighting Calgary
- Seasonal Irrigation Contracts Calgary
IA-Certified Specialists · All Calgary Communities · Free Quotes · 587-433-4795
