The Landscape of WiFi: How to Incorporate WiFi Devices to Control Outdoor Systems
The smartphone and tablet have taken control of our daily lives with apps and features to manipulate just about everything. Home automation from these applications has become common in new construction and renovations, so why not extend that same ease of WiFi outdoors?
Irrigation systems, LED landscape lighting, and outdoor audio can be controlled with a simple swipe. These functions make operation a breeze and are environmentally friendly by optimizing water usage and energy consumption.
Irrigation Systems
The age-old question of “When should I water and how much?” has finally been answered. WIFI-enabled irrigation control units are not only linked to your device but also web-based weather forecasting systems. Variables such as sun exposure, plant species, and lawn types are also accounted for throughout individual zones on the property. Watering schedules are then adjusted based on forecasted temperature, rainfall, humidity, and wind speeds. These systems even can detect a change in water flow due to a break or obstruction in the piping. An alert is immediately sent to the smart device, and a repair can be promptly scheduled to avoid costly water loss. Water savings and a beautiful, healthy landscape can be achieved with this smart technology.
LED Landscape Lighting
LED technology in landscape lighting has come a long way since its inception. The initial cold, bluish-led lamps are now warm and inviting with an array of vibrant color options. WIFI-driven transformers can group light fixtures throughout separate outdoor spaces and adjust light intensities through your phone or tablet. Presets can also be programmed into the smart device so lighting will automatically turn on or dim when it detects the device within that space.
The ability to change colors on individual fixtures right from the palm of your hand can be perfect for creating just the right mood. The overall appearance of an outdoor space can be changed multiple times throughout the evening, providing a captivating experience for your guests.
Outdoor Audio
Nothing completes an outdoor space more than some good tunes from a well-balanced speaker system. A recent trend in outdoor audio is incorporating satellite speakers and subwoofers hidden within your landscape to create a feeling of total music immersion. WIFI-based units, such as Sonos, are similar to indoor sound systems where a smart device communicates with the WIFI driver and then transmits a signal to an amplifier and speakers.
Pandora, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and many others can easily be streamed right from the comfort of your patio seat. Individual speaker levels can also be adjusted to provide sound where needed most and gentle listening options for more intimate spaces. Multiple users can also have DJ access for large events to select their favorite jams from their phones. But, of course, it may be best to have great grandma sit that one out.
Most of us are connected to our smart devices 24/7, so why not put them to good use to bring high-quality sound to your outdoor space? There’s no better way to create an interesting and relaxing place outside than with your favorite music.
Need help incorporating WIFI into your backyard space? Give our professional landscaping team a call today at (856) 753.1944.
