When it comes to irrigation controllers and finding the correct one for your system, the options for controllers can seem both endless and overwhelming. Luckily, there are ways to find the perfect controller for your project the first time. If you take the time to figure out what it is your system needs before placing your order, you can save yourself both time and money by skipping the trial and error of selecting the correct controller for your system.
Gathering Information
Just like every other element of your system, you will want to gather the necessary information you will need to know before selecting a controller for your system. If you have not yet installed your system or are in the early planning stages, this would be the perfect time to begin by sketching your system design.
You will want to include all important information on where the locations of your equipment will be going, as well as any important factors such as bends, or areas you will need fittings. Since you are looking to include a controller in the system, you will want to include the area in which your valves will be housed, as well as the location in which you plan to keep your controller mounted.
Asking Questions
Taking time to ask yourself what you are looking for in a controller is probably one of the most significant steps to finding the correct controller for your system, as controllers are not a “one size fits all” ordeal. Some questions you may want to consider asking yourself are:
Will you be using AC or DC valves for your system?
Arguably, one of the most important questions in the controller buying process. Just as all other elements of irrigation, you cannot use AC and DC components interchangeably. Determine the valve type you will be using first to ensure you select the correct controller for the valve you have.
Is the controller you are interested in compatible with the manufacturer of your valves?
You want to ensure you are purchasing a controller that you not only like, but it is compatible with the existing components of your system.
How many zones are you looking to water with your controller?
Not all controllers are able to handle large zone quantities, and some controllers have fixed stations, which only allow you to use up to the amount of zones the system can support. Checking the required number of zones you will need to irrigate your system can save you both time and money in the long run.
Will you want to expand your system in the future?
This question and the one previously mentioned go hand in hand. Depending how many zones you have, you may want to expand your system to meet the needs of your growing landscape. You will want to find a modular controller that can be expanded as you need. As a note, when making your initial controller purchase, it is okay to select a controller with more zones than you currently have. All zones do not need to be in operation for the controller to operate.
Are you interested in an indoor or outdoor controller?
Not all controllers are meant to be installed outdoors. Some controllers are considered indoor-only controllers. The biggest indication of whether you are looking at an indoor or outdoor controller is the casing the controller is kept in. If the controller you are interested in does not have a protective casing, or has a case without a lock, it is more than likely an indoor controller. Outdoor controllers have a weather-proof protective case with a keyed lock or lockable latch or hasp.
What features are you looking for in a controller?
Take the time to sit down and consider what it is you are looking for in a controller. Do you want a controller that is compatible with rain and freeze sensors? Do you want a controller that can handle propagation? What needs do you have for your controller?
With these questions in mind, you will most definitely be able to find the correct controller for your system’s needs the first time, with as little strain possible. 
Making Your Selection
With the aforementioned questions in mind, you will be able to begin the process of selecting your controller.
The quickest way to rule out options that will not work for you is to determine whether you will be using an AC or DC controller based on the valves you have chosen.
What is the difference between AC and DC valves?
Just as you cannot use different threading with irrigation components, you cannot use AC and DC valves and controllers interchangeably. A DC valve solenoid can only operate with a DC controller just as an AC solenoid can only operate with an AC controller.
Both AC and DC describe types of current flow in a circuit. In direct current (DC), the electric charge (current) only flows in one direction, whereas electric charge in alternating current (AC), changes direction periodically.
Helpful Tip: You can usually tell the difference between alternating and direct currents by the color of the wire seen on both. If both wires of your solenoid are a solid, single-color, your solenoid is most likely an AC solenoid. If the two solenoid wires are two different colors, such as red and black, your solenoid is more likely a DC solenoid.
For more information on the relationship between your controller and valve, as well as situating yourself with a manifold, check out our Introduction to Irrigation Controllers, Valves, and Manifolds article.
To help simplify your controller search, here are some manufacturer attributes you may want to keep in mind when making your selection:
Once you have selected the valve type for your controller, you can begin to make your selections based on the functions you are looking for in a controller, and the operating specifications your system will require to run. Here are all of the controllers we currently carry grouped by manufacturer:
AC Controllers
Hunter
Hunter as a manufacturer offers a large variety of online resources for your controller. If you like a manufacturer who will have written manuals for you, ready to go and easy to access via their website, Hunter may be a good choice of controller for you.
Rain Bird
Rain Bird is an incredibly well-known company that offers online resources for its customers as well. Founded in 1933, Rain Bird has continuously shown their efforts in being innovators of drip irrigation. Their products are compatible with many modules and sensors, so if you are someone looking to add to their controller with different accessories, Rain Bird may be a good manufacturer choice for your controller.
Orbit / Hydro-Rain
Hydro-Rain is the commercial division of Orbit Irrigation so when you purchase a Hydro-Rain product, you will get all of the same reliability and product confidence you have come to expect from Orbit. Whether you are a first-time user, or an Orbit fanatic, many users find the reliability of these products brings them back time and time again.
Toro
Many irrigators find themselves drawn to the reliability and simplicity of products manufactured by Toro. Although a simple design, Toro includes many additional features for their controllers that allow you to get the most use out of your controller possible.
K-Rain
K-Rain is one of the most reliable newer manufacturers on the market. Many people find that K-Rain products are both reliable and in many cases, compatible with other manufacturers on select components of their products. Despite being a “new kid on the block” in comparison to their competition, K-Rain offers high-quality products for almost all aspects of irrigation.
Irritrol
Committed to growth and innovation, Irritrol is a very reputable brand that has been around for many years. Irritrol is a company known for its commitment to bettering well-known products that people have grown to know and love. They, as well, have many compatible elements to their products, as many older manufacturers have since been bought by Irritrol.
DC Controllers
Hunter
Hunter as a manufacturer offers a large variety of online resources for your controller. If you like a manufacturer who will have written manuals for you, ready to go and easy to access via their website, Hunter may be a good choice of controller for you.
DIG
Simple and to the point definitely seems to be a DIG motto. Their reliable products paired with their dedication to quality service over time is one of the many reasons why customers of ours have come to love DIG. If you are someone who wants a simple DC controller that will give you full control over your system, DIG may be the manufacturer for you.
Orbit / Hydro-Rain
Hydro-Rain is the commercial division of Orbit so when you purchase a Hydro-Rain product, you will get all of the same reliability and product confidence you have come to expect from Orbit. Whether you are a first-time user, or an Orbit fanatic, many customers find the reliability of these products brings them back time and time again.
K-Rain
K-Rain is one of the most reliable newer manufacturers on the market. Many people find that K-Rain products are both reliable and in many cases, compatible with other manufacturers on select components of their products. Despite being a “new kid on the block” in comparison to their competition, K-Rain offers high-quality products for almost all aspects of irrigation.
I want a hose end controller, but there are none listed here. What do I do?
Controllers are not hose-end products. If you are looking for something that will water your plants on a repeating cycle that attaches and is used directly from your spigot, you will want to review our Hose-End Timer Buying Guide for more information on finding the correct timer for your drip irrigation system.
If after reading this guide you have any questions about the controllers offered by Drip Depot or need assistance with figuring out if you have an AC or DC valve, please contact us at support@dripdepot.com with your questions!