Our Services
Smart Sprinkler Controller Upgrades in Charlotte, NC
Wi-Fi smart controllers (Rachio, Hunter Hydrawise) that cut water bills 30%+.
Service Overview
Smart Controller Upgrades tailored to your property
Most existing sprinkler systems in the Charlotte metro are still running on basic clock-style controllers from 10 or 15 years ago — running the same minutes per zone whether it's 95° in August or 60° and rainy in October. Upgrading to a smart Wi-Fi controller like Rachio or Hunter Hydrawise typically cuts water use by 30% or more, and pays for itself within a season or two on most properties.
Smart controllers pull live weather data from local Charlotte stations, adjust run times automatically, skip cycles before forecasted rain, and let you control everything from your phone whether you're at home in Ballantyne or on the road. We install Rachio and Hydrawise on existing systems — no need to replace pipes or heads — and program full seasonal schedules tailored to your turf type and zones.
What we do
A snapshot of the work we commonly take on under this service. Your scope is built from what your property actually needs — pick and choose, or let us recommend.
- Rachio & Hunter Hydrawise install
- Existing controller swap-out
- Wi-Fi setup & app configuration
- Seasonal schedule programming
- Rain & freeze sensor integration
- Owner training & documentation
Who it's for
Homeowners with old clock-style controllers
If your controller has a dial and AAA batteries, you're overwatering. Swap it for a Rachio or Hydrawise, get app control, and watch your water bill drop.
Anyone trying to lower water bills
Smart controllers qualify for water utility rebates in some Charlotte-area municipalities. We can guide you through the rebate paperwork.
Vacation home & rental owners
Lake Norman and Fort Mill second homes — control irrigation from your phone, get failure alerts, and skip cycles when rain is forecast even when you're not there.
How we scope your project
Every property is different, so every quote is too. Here's the general path we take from first call to finished work — adjusted to fit the size, complexity, and goals of your specific project.
1. Existing system review
We inspect your current controller, valve count, and zone wiring to confirm the upgrade is straightforward and identify any wiring issues to address.
2. Smart controller install
We mount the new Rachio or Hydrawise unit, transfer all zone wires, and connect rain/freeze sensors if equipped. Most installs are 1–2 hours.
3. Wi-Fi & app setup
We connect the controller to your home Wi-Fi, set up your account, install the app on your phone, and walk you through the controls.
4. Custom programming
We build out seasonal schedules per zone — cool-season vs warm-season turf, sun vs shade, beds vs lawn — so it's running optimally the day we leave.
Why Piedmont Landscape & Irrigation
- Authorized installer for both Rachio and Hunter Hydrawise — no preference, we install whichever fits your system best.
- Existing valve wiring tested and labeled before swap — no surprises after install.
- Programmed for Charlotte's climate, not generic factory defaults.
- Full app walk-through and printed quick-reference guide — you actually know how to use the new controller.
Where we work
We provide smart controller upgrades across the greater Charlotte NC metro. Click a city for local details, neighborhoods we serve, and project examples:
Frequently asked questions
How much does a smart controller upgrade cost?+
Most residential upgrades run $450–$750 installed including the controller, mounting, wire transfer, programming, and app setup. Larger commercial systems vary based on zone count.
How much will it actually save on my water bill?+
Most properties see 25–40% reductions in irrigation water use after switching from a clock controller to a smart one. Savings depend on lot size, prior overwatering, and local weather patterns.
Will it work with my existing system?+
Almost certainly. Rachio and Hydrawise replace the controller only — your valves, pipe, and heads stay in place. We confirm compatibility during the on-site visit.
What about Wi-Fi range to my garage or basement?+
We test signal strength during install. If your Wi-Fi doesn't reach, we recommend a mesh extender or use a Hydrawise model with cellular as backup.
Stop watering in the rain.
Free on-site quote — we'll spec the right smart controller for your system, install it, and program it tuned to your turf and zones.