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Rachio 3: 8 Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller (Simple Automated Scheduling + Local Weather Intelligence. Save Water w/ Rain, Freeze & Wind Skip), App Enabled, Works w/ Alexa, Fast & Easy Install
Sustainability features
This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications.
Conserves water compared to similar products.
![WaterSense](https://cdn.statically.io/img/m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51zxPduDEuL._SS128_.jpg)
WaterSense is a voluntary partnership program sponsored by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The WaterSense label identifies products, homes, and programs that meet the EPA's criteria for water-efficiency and performance. WaterSense-labeled products and services are certified to use at least 20 percent less water, save energy, and perform as well as or better than conventional products on the market. Check out the WaterSense website to learn more about this program. WaterSense partners with manufacturers, retailers and distributors, homebuilders, irrigation professionals, and utilities to bring WaterSense to your community.
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Return this item for free
We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select your preferred free shipping option
- Drop off and leave!
Learn more
Return this item for free
We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select your preferred free shipping option
- Drop off and leave!
Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | Rachio |
Voltage | 120 Volts |
Product Dimensions | 9.1"L x 1.4"W x 5.6"H |
Material | Plastic |
Item Weight | 1 Pounds |
About this item
- WORRY-FREE WATERING - Rachio tailors your watering schedule to the specific needs of your yard and plants, providing the right amount of water no matter the landscape. Ensure a beautiful yard and lower your water bill at the same time!
- NO MONTHLY FEES - Rachio comes complete and ready to use, without any extra charges or app subscription fees.
- EXCLUSIVE WEATHER TECHNOLOGY - Patented Weather Intelligence automatically skips unnecessary watering with features like rain skip, wind skip, freeze skip, and more.
- CONTROL FROM YOUR PHONE - Manage your watering from anywhere with the easy-to-use app. Run sprinklers, set & view upcoming schedules, and see your estimated outdoor water usage.
- FAST & EASY INSTALLATION - DIY installation in 30 minutes or less with no special tools needed. Compatible with 99% of existing sprinkler controllers.
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Frequently bought together
![Rachio 3: 8 Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller (Simple Automated Scheduling + Local Weather Intelligence. Save Water w/ Rain, Fr](https://cdn.statically.io/img/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71asdFrVrlL._AC_UL116_SR116,116_.jpg)
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Climate Pledge Friendly
Products with trusted sustainability certification(s). Learn morePRODUCT CERTIFICATION (1)
WaterSense is a voluntary label from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which identifies products that meet criteria from the EPA for water-efficiency and performance.
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Products with trusted sustainability certification(s). Learn morePRODUCT CERTIFICATION (1)
WaterSense is a voluntary label from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which identifies products that meet criteria from the EPA for water-efficiency and performance.
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Product details
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer : No
- Product Dimensions : 9.1 x 1.4 x 5.6 inches; 1 Pounds
- Item model number : 8ZULW-C
- Date First Available : June 26, 2018
- Manufacturer : Rachio
- ASIN : B07CZ864Y9
- Country of Origin : USA
- Best Sellers Rank: #471 in Patio, Lawn & Garden (See Top 100 in Patio, Lawn & Garden)
- Customer Reviews:
Sustainability features
This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications.
Conserves water compared to similar products.
![WaterSense](https://cdn.statically.io/img/m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51zxPduDEuL._SS128_.jpg)
WaterSense is a voluntary partnership program sponsored by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The WaterSense label identifies products, homes, and programs that meet the EPA's criteria for water-efficiency and performance. WaterSense-labeled products and services are certified to use at least 20 percent less water, save energy, and perform as well as or better than conventional products on the market. Check out the WaterSense website to learn more about this program. WaterSense partners with manufacturers, retailers and distributors, homebuilders, irrigation professionals, and utilities to bring WaterSense to your community.
Product Description
The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller raises the smart watering bar with foolproof installation, dual-band Wi-Fi and an expressive light bar. Rachio 3 is the only controller equipped with hyperlocal Weather Intelligence Plus. The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller automatically creates watering schedules that lower your water bill and ensure a beautiful yard, while the mobile app lets you manage your sprinkler system from anywhere. Rachio partners with the top smart-home platforms including Amazon Alexa, the Google Assistant, Nest, IFTTT – making it the most connected controller on the market. App Compatibility - Android 4.4+; subject to change. Mobile app is required to connect the controller to Wi-Fi. Systems that source water from a well will likely need a pump to add pressure for sprinklers.
From the manufacturer
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Set up your Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller in 30 minutes or less with no special tools
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Test your sprinkler system and remove the old controller. Then mount your new Rachio easily with our handy mounting template. |
Easy-press terminals help you quickly snap into place – no screwdriver needed! Match the wires from your old setup for ready-made wiring. |
The streamlined Rachio app helps connect your controller to Wi-Fi and then customize your zones and watering schedules. |
What's in the box
Product guides and documents
Videos
Videos for this product
6:45
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Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller Review and Install!
Top Homeowner
Videos for this product
3:02
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Rachio 3 8 Zone Smart Sprinkler Controler explained
JT
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1:25
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Honest Homeowner Review of the Rachio 3!
Rylan’s Reviews
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8:35
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Rachio 3 - 8 Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller
Tech Influence
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6:45
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Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller 1 Year Review
Top Homeowner
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Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the ease of use, features, and connectivity of the controller. For example, they mention it's super easy to set up, intuitive, and easy to use the app. They appreciate the smart features and the weather connectivity. That said, opinions are mixed on connectivity and performance.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers find the controller easy to set up and use. They say the instructions are clear and straightforward. They also appreciate the app and say it's easy to setup a schedule.
"...The instructions provided were clear and straightforward, making the installation process a breeze, even for someone like me who isn't the most tech-..." Read more
"...This Rachio is light years ahead of that system. It was easy to hook up and the app is awesome. It loads quick and stays connected all the time...." Read more
"...to the magnetic cover, the software in the app (we use iOS)… it was simple and the experience was like opening an Apple product and having it “..." Read more
"...Easy to program and works thru your wifi system so you have the system on phone, computer etc to control." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the quality of the controller. They mention that it is easy to install, great, and the best controller they have ever used. The app is well thought out and simple to use. Some say that the concept is great.
"...Not only does it excel as a standalone smart sprinkler controller, but its seamless integration with Home Assistant takes its functionality to a..." Read more
"This irrigation control system is great as it reacts to the weather. If it is raining it will not water and makes it easy and saves water over time...." Read more
"...The app is extremely well designed, with lots of suggestions and options... but also very easily enables you "do your own thing"..." Read more
"...The app (Android in my case) is well thought out and lets me set up a schedule; see what the local weather will be; see when a scheduled watering..." Read more
Customers like the app. They say it's intuitive, easy to use, and nice. They also say it takes a little getting used to operating with. Customers like that they can control the functions of their home via a smartphone. They mention that the app and service is quite good.
"...Its advanced watering features, user-friendly app, and seamless integration with Home Assistant make it the perfect addition to any smart home setup...." Read more
"...It was easy to hook up and the app is awesome. It loads quick and stays connected all the time...." Read more
"...The app is EXTREMELY buggy and the UX is seriously lacking if you run into any issues. I will update in a few months if things change...." Read more
"The Rachio 3 is a very convenient and efficient controller with a great deal of customization available - maybe a bit too much if, like me, you want..." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the weather connectivity of the controller. They mention that it receives weather data from the web, allowing it to be smart. They appreciate the micro-local weather forecasting, and the online monitoring of local weather conditions. The controller constantly monitors local weather forecasts and automatically adjusts watering schedules. Customers also like that it incorporates the weather into their watering Schedule.
"...Weather Intelligence Plus technology, the controller constantly monitors local weather forecasts and automatically adjusts watering schedules to..." Read more
"...It loads quick and stays connected all the time. It also keeps up with the weather and can shut off the sprinklers if it rains...." Read more
"This irrigation control system is great as it reacts to the weather. If it is raining it will not water and makes it easy and saves water over time...." Read more
"...Unlimited schedules. Run a zone or schedule on demand. Skip the next run of a schedule...." Read more
Customers like the water saving of the controller. They say the smart settings allow it to save water, most notably on rainy days. They also say the controller keeps water from running off and not benefitting their yard. Customers say it makes a big difference in water bill, tracks usage, schedules, rain hold days, and integrates seamlessly with other devices.
"...Its advanced watering features, user-friendly app, and seamless integration with Home Assistant make it the perfect addition to any smart home setup...." Read more
"...If it is raining it will not water and makes it easy and saves water over time...." Read more
"...Has already cut my water bill in half by not running when it is going to rain...." Read more
"...Huge waste of water, it rained almost an inch today. So I guess I need a rain sensor as well...." Read more
Customers like the smart features of the controller. They say it works great, has newer features, and can include some smart options. Customers also appreciate the HomeKit functionality and how it integrates with other things. Overall, customers find the device to be smart and helpful.
"...seamless integration with Home Assistant make it the perfect addition to any smart home setup...." Read more
"This irrigation controller is perfect for homeowners who have 8 or less zones to their irrigation system...." Read more
"...a rebate for upgrading to this smart controller and I am really please with the app and the ease of using the Rachio 3...." Read more
"...6 zoned system was up and running again, but now with many more features and tweaking ability...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the performance of the controller. Some mention that it seems to work well, the app works flawlessly, and is smart in its operation. However, others say that the connection the "Rachio 3" will not work, rendering the device useless. The app falls a bit short and only works for the one controller that is active when you purchase the app.
"...If you're looking for a smart sprinkler controller that combines efficiency, convenience, and innovation, the Rachio 3 is hands down the best choice...." Read more
"...All in all, this is a solid product, and I would highly recommend it… as long as you have some time to set it up correctly...." Read more
"...The controller's networking firmware doesn't seem to be very resilient, and it doesn't seem to understand how to properly retry connections...." Read more
"...Easy to program and works thru your wifi system so you have the system on phone, computer etc to control." Read more
Customers have mixed opinions about the connectivity of the controller. Some find it super easy to connect to WiFi, while others say it refuses to connect. Some customers also mention that the system has been responsive. However, others say that the controller has poor connectivity and would not connect to Apple HomeKit.
"...It also lost connection constantly. This Rachio is light years ahead of that system. It was easy to hook up and the app is awesome...." Read more
"...I've experienced no connectivity issues, and the system has been responsive every time I've interacted with it, whether through the app or Home..." Read more
"...issues until it stopped working entirely, but the replacement has disconnected from the wifi once already (I have it on a dedicated 2.4 ghz network)...." Read more
"...When it's good, it's really good. I like it. But these disconnects are making me nuts.---------Original Review:..." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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First and foremost, the Rachio 3 is incredibly easy to install and set up. The instructions provided were clear and straightforward, making the installation process a breeze, even for someone like me who isn't the most tech-savvy. The controller's sleek and modern design also adds a touch of elegance to my garage.
One of the standout features of the Rachio 3 is its intelligent watering capabilities. With its advanced Weather Intelligence Plus technology, the controller constantly monitors local weather forecasts and automatically adjusts watering schedules to ensure my lawn receives just the right amount of water. This not only helps conserve water but also keeps my lawn looking lush and healthy all year round.
The mobile app that comes with the Rachio 3 is intuitive and user-friendly, allowing me to control and monitor my sprinkler system from anywhere, at any time. I can easily set up custom watering schedules, make adjustments on the fly, and view water usage reports right from my smartphone. It's incredibly convenient, especially when I'm away from home or on vacation, giving me peace of mind that my lawn is being taken care of properly.
Now, let's talk about the integration with Home Assistant, which is the icing on the cake. I'm a big fan of home automation, and having the Rachio 3 work seamlessly with my Home Assistant setup has been a game-changer. By connecting the Rachio 3 to Home Assistant, I can incorporate my sprinkler system into various smart home routines and scenarios. For example, I have created an automation that turns off the sprinklers automatically when it detects rain through my weather sensors, avoiding any unnecessary watering.
Furthermore, the integration with Home Assistant allows me to include the sprinkler system in my voice-controlled smart home ecosystem. I can simply ask my virtual assistant to water specific zones or even start a custom watering program without lifting a finger.
In terms of reliability, the Rachio 3 has been rock-solid. I've experienced no connectivity issues, and the system has been responsive every time I've interacted with it, whether through the app or Home Assistant.
Overall, the Rachio 3 8-Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller is a top-notch product that truly deserves all the praise it receives. Its advanced watering features, user-friendly app, and seamless integration with Home Assistant make it the perfect addition to any smart home setup. If you're looking for a smart sprinkler controller that combines efficiency, convenience, and innovation, the Rachio 3 is hands down the best choice. Your lawn will thank you, and you'll wonder how you ever managed without it!
First, let me say that this is an awesome product. Having worked in technology, and specifically software engineering and product development for 15-20 years, I truly appreciate the simplicity of the product. The entire setup process — from opening the box to having water running in our yard — lasted maybe 10-15 minutes max, and it was only that high because I spent about 5 minutes creating a label on our label maker to “mark” the zones on the outside of the unit. Some might call this overkill… my wife calls it particular… but nevertheless. Everything from the design, to engineering, to the magnetic cover, the software in the app (we use iOS)… it was simple and the experience was like opening an Apple product and having it “just work”.
Second, let me speak to the setup options, since I think this is where most folks that write negative reviews get hung up. There are basically two paths to choose from, and there doesn’t really seem to be a middle ground. One path is to basically set it up as a “dumb controller” — meaning, think of what your parents probably had 20-30 years ago in their garage. You set a schedule, it is fixed, and it basically runs on certain days and times that you set. If this is your preference, then save your money and buy a different controller. There are way cheaper options on the market, and this product is going to be overkill for a schedule that simple.
The other option, which is why I suspect most of you are probably interested or reading this in the first place, is what this system is really designed to do. You can set it up as a “smart controller” — meaning, you set a base schedule, along with some data points specific to your location, and these are fed into an algorithm, along with real-time weather information from your area, and it basically adjusts “on demand”. For example, if it rained more than a certain amount (you can set the threshold), or if rain is even expected in your area in the next 24 hours, it will skip a cycle. Or if it detects winds (again, you can set a threshold), it might adjust the time. Same thing for temperature below freezing, soil moisture, etc. There are a lot of options and you can customize which ones per zone… for example, one of our zones is a dedicated drip hose, so the wind alert doesn’t really matter but the soil moisture does. The neat thing is you can set multiple “schedules” and target different settings for each. The only thing to be aware of, is one of the settings is “time of day”… so if you have multiple schedules for the same day, and they are both set to “finish before sunrise”, for example, you might run into weird situations. We get around this by alternating days (or you can set a “fixed” time of day for one). Just a heads up for anyone running more complex schedules across zones.
The “smart controller” setup (as I call it) is a little more work up front, and if you do it wrong, I can totally see how it will mess up your yard. However, it’s not all that difficult, and once it’s setup as intended, it’s totally worth the money. Based on our water usage, and the unpredictability of weather in the North TX area, I think this unit will pay for itself in a matter of a couple months. In the past 14 days alone, it has already saved us from running 4 different cycles for who knows how many hundreds of gallons each time. Again, this means that you actually have to do some work up front to make sure it is setup correctly. It does require a little bit of knowledge of your soil type and the ability not to over-estimate slopes. For example, just because your yard is graded (to get water away from your house) does not mean that the slope is “extreme”. All of the factors go into the algorithm… so if you get it wrong, that is not Rachio’s fault, even though it sounds like that is where most of the negative reviews stem from. It’s just like anything else with data… garbage in = garbage out. If you put good data in, then the results can be remarkable.
The only downside, if there was one, is I could not get this to work with our existing rain sensor or HomeKit. The rain sensor threw false positives, and once I figured that out (thanks to Rachio alerting us "why" the system did not run), I just unplugged it and it's one less thing to have to worry about. For HomeKit, with a background in software engineering, I’ve looked into this technically and this appears to be an issue with Apple’s integration rather than Rachio. Practically, all this means is I cannot say “Hey Siri, turn on our sprinklers for 10 minutes". Would that be impressive to show off? Absolutely. But with the intelligence already built into Rachio's software, there’s a good chance I’ll never need to do anything manually ever again.
In summary… this is an excellent product, but it is not for everyone. I do wish there was a review like this a few weeks back so I did not have to spend time second guessing myself before we purchased this product. All in all, this is a solid product, and I would highly recommend it… as long as you have some time to set it up correctly. I hope this helps!
Justin
Top reviews from other countries
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El problema se presenta con Homekit. Presenta desconexiones constantes y debo estar desconectando el equipo y volviendo a conectar y allí vuelve.
El último firmare también empeoró la comunicación con Homekit, espero que sea solucionado en el futuro.
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The reason I was looking for a new controller was my old Rainbird always had issues with connecting to my wifi. It was ok feature wise but felt it was falling short.
This new Rachio was super easy to install. I loved that fact the bottom of the control was left open so you don't have to pull wires through any holes. Face is held on with magnets, another nice feature.
Connecting wise, Are you kidding me! I blinked and I missed it. I thought for sure I did something wrong as it should not be this easy but no! I was wrong and it was connected and it really was that fast!
The rest of the set up was just as easy. I'm a guy, who has time for instructions, not me!!!! And you truly do not need them. It walks you through everything step by step. I found everything easy to understand and to navigate through.
It has some great features in my opinion zone wise. Asks about your area you live, asks what kind of watering you are doing (Grass, bushes etc) what type of irrigation heads you are using. What slope the area is on. It then gives you the option to name the zone and add a picture. All this is to optimise your watering. So cool!
Timer wise, again super easy. I asked to end my watering cycles at sunrise and it figured out the start times. Because you entered all the information about the zone it automatically calculates how long each zone waters for. Keeping in mind you have full control over all of these settings if you wish.
It watches your local forecast and it has only watered once so far. Its early spring here and it has been cloudy and sometimes raining. It is pausing my schedule automatically for me. Such A nice feature. I was a little hesitant on giving it full control but since you can easily go into the app and monitor your past watering cycles I feel comfortable knowing I can monitor it and see what is going on. Another very cool feature.
It's not the cheapest unit on the market but due to all the features, the care free operation it's worth every penny.
For anyone that has never used an App based watering system its pretty cool. My cell phone notified me someone was in my yard (Security camera system). When I looked someone was walking their HUGE wolf dog and it decided it didn't want to go any farther and layed down on my lawn. She was pulling and pulling. No way she was moving him. So I decided to help her out..... I opened up my Rachio app and flicked the zone on. Wanna see how fast a Wolf dog can move!!!! She literally said out loud laughing. THANK YOU WHOEVER YOU ARE !!!!! LOL!
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Ya envié un ticket de servicio a través de la misma app de Rachio, después les continuo platicando como me fue con el servicio y la garantía.
Very happy at the beginning because my garden looks better than ever using the smart cycles, but frustrated and disappointed since the controller does not turn on any more after one month of use.
I sent a service ticket trough their own Rachio app, I will update this review to let you know how was the service and warranty.