Rachio Iro app update brings Nest Protect integration, even more water savings
The Iro, a smart and app-enabled home sprinkler controller from Rachio, can now save homeowners even more water.
With a recent update to version 1.7, the Rachio app can lower irrigation usage by up to 30 percent.
That’s in part to special software algorithms that provide the absolute minimum amount of irrigation for your lawn to still look great. For example, the system can now determine exactly how much water a lawn has lost and skip an irrigation schedule, if needed.
Users can also take advantage of new vegetation, soil, exposure, nozzle, and slope options to more finely tune watering their property.
Finally, the Iro can now integrate with the Nest Protect smoke detectors. When the alarm sounds for a predetermined amount of time, the system will automatically cycle sprinklers around the house, preventing any fire from spreading to your neighbors.
While that integration is something I would hopefully never use, it is a really great idea.
Designed for the iPhone/iPod touch, the companion app can be downloaded now from the App Store for free.
The controller will set you back $249 and can be purchased directly from the company’s site or Home Depot.
Here’s a quick promo video. Click here if you can’t see it.
Even though you’ll have to replace your old sprinkler controller unit to install the Iro, the water savings definitely make the unit look like a great purchase for homeowners.
For other app news today, see: Developers tease a Haunting Melissa sequel just before Halloween, You don’t have to be an expert to find original artwork thanks to Vango for iOS, and Bitmoji lets you use a custom emoji keyboard featuring your Bitstrips cartoon avatar.
