The Sprinkler Nerd Show

At the Hunter Industries Contractor Training Event hosted in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Andy sat down with irrigation contractors and technology leaders to explore one big question: What is the future of irrigation going to look like? In this documentary-style episode, you'll hear from contractors with decades of field experience, including three generations of Grapids Irrigation, contractors adapting to smart controllers and cloud-based monitoring, and the people building the next generation of tools at Hunter. Featuring conversations with: Aaron Katerberg of Grapids Irrigation, Brandon Dietrich of Garpio Group, Jason from Smith Lawnscapes, Hector Avalos of Pro-Mow Landscaping, Tony Tiscareno of Grapids Irrigation, and Scott Allison from Hunter Industries. Topics include: Flat-rate pricing and running a more profitable service business Smart controllers, Wi-Fi, flow sensors, and remote monitoring Why water savings and technology matter more than ever New cloud-based design tools like Hunter's My Design Landscape The differences between irrigation in Michigan and Florida Why, after 20–30 years in the business, contractors still love what they do The tools are changing. The technology is changing. The people who make irrigation work are still the story. If you enjoy the episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend in the irrigation industry.

Behind every irrigation controller, valve, and system component is a team of engineers and product managers working to improve the tools contractors rely on every day. In the final episode of this three-part series from the Rain Bird Irrigation Pro Summit, Andy Humphrey talks with members of the Rain Bird team about how irrigation products are designed and how contractor feedback shapes the future of irrigation technology. Steve, a Rain Bird product manager, shares insights into the development of modern controller platforms, two-wire systems, and connected irrigation management tools. Maggie and Matt from Rain Bird discuss valve technology, integrated valve modules, and how product innovation happens within one of the irrigation industry's most recognized manufacturers. This conversation highlights how collaboration between contractors and manufacturers continues to drive innovation in irrigation. In This Episode How Rain Bird develops irrigation controllers Two-wire technology and system diagnostics Valve innovation and integrated valve modules (IVM) How contractor feedback influences product development The future of irrigation technology Featured Guests Steve Barendt— Rain Bird Product Manager, Controllers Maggie Saulsby — Rain Bird Product Manager, Valves Matt Cooper — Rain Bird Contractor Account Manager (CAM), Mid Atlantic

Today's irrigation contractor does far more than install sprinklers. Modern irrigation companies are managing water, integrating technology, and running sophisticated service businesses that combine field expertise with connected systems and data. In this second episode of the Rain Bird Irrigation Pro Summit series, Andy Humphrey speaks with several contractors working in the field today about how the role of the irrigation contractor is evolving. Steve from Quench Irrigation discusses water management, smart controllers, and the growing role of sensors and connected technology. Travis and Andy Childs share practical insights from decades of experience installing and troubleshooting irrigation systems. And Alex from Morgans Irrigation talks about how modern irrigation businesses are using automation, CRM systems, and new service models to improve customer communication and operations. Together, these conversations paint a picture of the modern irrigation contractor — a combination of technician, water manager, and technology operator. In This Episode Smart controllers and cloud-connected irrigation systems Water monitoring and irrigation management Two-wire troubleshooting and electrical diagnostics Training technicians and improving system reliability Using CRM systems and automation in irrigation businesses Featured Guests Steve Pereira — Quench Irrigation Travis Childs — Morgans Irrigation Andy Childs — Landscape Maintenance Services Danielle and Denise - Landscape Maintenance Services Alex Morgans — Morgans Irrigation

In the first episode of this three-part series from the Rain Bird Irrigation Pro Summit, Andy Humphrey sits down with Walter Mugivan, owner of Aqua Mist Irrigation, who has more than 50 years of experience in the irrigation industry. Walter installed his first irrigation system in 1968 — digging trenches by hand and working with early hydraulic valves long before modern irrigation technology existed. In this conversation, Walter shares how the industry has evolved over the decades, from early sprinkler systems to today's advanced controllers, flow management systems, and large-scale pump stations. He also shares advice for contractors entering the industry and explains why understanding the fundamentals of hydraulics and system design still matters today. This episode is a reminder that irrigation innovation didn't happen overnight — it was built through decades of learning, experimentation, and improvement. In This Episode What irrigation systems looked like in the late 1960s The evolution of controllers and sprinkler technology Pump stations and stormwater irrigation systems The importance of hydraulics in irrigation design Lessons from more than 50 years in the industry Featured Guest Walter Mugavin Owner, Aqua Mist Irrigation

In this episode of The Sprinkler Nerd Show, Andy Humphrey sits down with Justin Wilson, founder of American Irrigation in Georgetown, Texas. With nearly three decades in the irrigation service business, Justin shares how he built a company that now runs 17+ service trucks and completes thousands of irrigation jobs each year. Justin explains why "the service business is the people business," emphasizing that successful companies must care for both their customers and their team members. The conversation dives into practical lessons from the field—how quality inspections and training help maintain standards across a large team, why many irrigation problems come down to simple issues like poorly installed sprinkler heads, and how contractors can build long-term customer trust. Andy and Justin also explore the future of irrigation, including smart controllers, the challenges of managing thousands of different systems, and the growing pressure on water resources. Justin argues that contractors will need to shift toward more efficient irrigation methods, better system design, and prioritizing which landscapes truly need water. The episode wraps with advice for contractors: stop searching for the "perfect technician" and instead invest in training the next generation of irrigation professionals.

TXT Andy and say what's up? 208 908 3229 -- Hey friends, welcome back to The Sprinkler Nerd Show. Today, I want to take you down a slightly different path. This one's not about technology. Not about sensors. Not even about irrigation. It's about something more fundamental… something that shapes how we lead, how we teach, and how we grow. It's about the power of not knowing. Have you ever noticed what happens when someone asks you a question? What do you do? You probably give them an answer. That's what we've been trained to do. We associate knowledge with value. We think: if I have the answer, I'm helpful. I'm smart. I'm a good leader. But I want to challenge that today. What if giving the answer actually ends the conversation too soon? See, when we hand someone an answer, we're closing a door. We're wrapping it up. Putting a bow on it. Done. Solved. Move on. But growth doesn't happen in the answers. Growth happens in the thinking. In the wondering. In the exploration of possibilities. So what if, instead of handing out answers like candy, we responded with questions? Imagine this: Someone asks you, "What should I do about this issue in the field?" And instead of launching into your best advice, you say: "What options have you considered?" "What's the outcome you're aiming for?" "What do you think will happen if you try that?" Now, suddenly, you're not just giving a solution—you're creating space for discovery. You're not the answer key. You're the guide. That's leadership. That's coaching. That's power. Because when you help someone think—not just tell them what to think—you unlock something in them. You give them a skill they can use forever, not just an answer they'll forget tomorrow. And here's the twist: Not knowing isn't weakness. It's wisdom. It's humility. It's the birthplace of insight. So next time someone comes to you looking for an answer, try holding back. Ask a question instead. Keep the door open. Let the conversation breathe. Because the power of not knowing... might just be the greatest tool you have. Thanks for listening, and I'll catch you next time. Intro audio source: America, "You Can Do Magic"

Reference Link: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/ec981d8c-cd1d-4c13-961a-76cf9cf32ecb

For immediate release—breaking news, kind of. In this solo episode of The Sprinkler Nerd Show, Andy dives into what seems like a revolutionary product: a mechanical rain sensor that requires no batteries, no Wi-Fi, no firmware updates—just pure, functional design. It shuts off irrigation during rainfall and turns it back on when conditions dry out, all thanks to hygroscopic discs that expand and contract to trigger a simple switch. This device sounds like the newest drop in water-saving technology—until Andy reveals the twist: it's not new at all. In fact, it's based on US Patent 3,808,385, filed in 1972 and granted in 1974. That's over 50 years ago. And the core concept of the mechanical rain sensor hasn't changed since. Andy breaks down how the device works, why it's still effective today, and what it says about the pace of innovation in the irrigation industry. He challenges contractors and tech developers alike to ask the big question: why are we still using 1970s technology in 2025? Could we create a smarter, data-driven rain sensor that actually logs rainfall events, provides historical context, and informs better irrigation decisions? If so—why hasn't anyone built it yet? Key Highlights: Breakdown of how the moisture-responsive switch actuator works Benefits for contractors: simplicity, reliability, zero maintenance Installation and adjustment tips Why the current state of rain sensors is a wake-up call A challenge to the industry: let's rethink how we track rain and respond to it Andy closes the episode with a call to action for all Sprinkler Nerds: always ask why. Why things work the way they do, why they've stayed the same—and how we can make them better.

YouTube Short: https://youtube.com/shorts/flpTuNN7vqY Summary In this episode of the Sprinkler Nerd Show, host Andy Humphrey sits down with Steve Barendt from Rain Bird to explore the company's new ESP 2-Wire Controller—a product that's making 2-wire irrigation systems significantly more approachable for contractors who may have previously avoided them due to complexity. The Origin of the Conversation Andy first encountered Steve at the IA Show, where Steve delivered an impromptu 2-minute elevator pitch on the new controller. That pitch sparked Andy's interest in Rain Bird's new approach to two-wire systems, leading to this deeper dive discussion. Steve's Background Steve brings a decade of experience at Rain Bird, including seven years on the sales team working directly with contractors in the Austin, Texas area. His background in the field informs his work as a product manager, enabling him to better understand real-world customer needs and challenges. Why "Approachable" Matters Historically, two-wire systems have been considered complex, especially around wiring specifications, connector types, and troubleshooting. Rain Bird's ESP Two-Wire Controller aims to lower the barrier to entry, making it easier for contractors—even those new to two-wire installations—to adopt the technology. The term "approachable two-wire" is intentional. Steve explains that Rain Bird designed this controller to work with standard irrigation wire and connectors, rather than requiring specialized components. As long as the wire is direct burial irrigation wire (down to 18 gauge) and connectors are rated for 600 volts, users can leverage what's already on their trucks—reducing the learning curve and installation costs. A Big Shift: De-Energized Two-Wire Path A key innovation is that the two-wire path is not constantly energized, as it is in traditional two-wire systems. Instead, it's only powered when actively running a station or performing diagnostics. This reduces heat at the connectors and decreases corrosion risks, allowing the use of standard connectors and simplifying troubleshooting. Positioning: Who's It For? The ESP Two-Wire Controller isn't designed to replace all two-wire systems. Instead, it's aimed at light commercial and large residential projects with about 12 to 30 stations—an area where contractors often debate between traditional wiring and larger two-wire systems. Key highlights: 50-station capacity (though ideal use is around 12–30 stations) Cost break-even point starts around 12 stations, lower than the 30+ typical for traditional two-wire setups Two solenoids can operate simultaneously Compatible with a standard flow sensor (hardwired) By offering a lower break-even point and simpler installation, this controller fills a gap between traditional modular controllers like the ESP ME3 and higher-end commercial platforms like LX IVM. Troubleshooting Tools and Diagnostics Rain Bird has invested heavily in diagnostics features that make this controller easier to troubleshoot: LED Feedback on Decoders: Each decoder includes red, green, and blue LEDs that indicate operational status, short circuits, and open circuits. Short Finding Mode: Allows energizing the path for diagnostics with a clamp meter. Power-Measure Mode: Helps track power issues in the field. These features empower contractors to isolate and resolve issues faster without needing advanced tools or specialized knowledge. Auto-Addressing Decoders Perhaps the most contractor-friendly feature is the auto-address functionality. Rain Bird decoders come in numbered order, and if installed sequentially, the controller will auto-scan and assign decoder addresses to stations with no manual input. This drastically reduces setup time and minimizes human error. While other systems may require manual address entry or use specialized software, Rain Bird's solution is faster and simpler—especially when paired with the mobile app. No Field Grounding Required Another simplification: unlike other two-wire systems, no field grounding is required for this controller. Though contractors can choose to ground the system if they wish, it's not necessary for functionality or warranty compliance. Connectivity and Software Integration The controller is WiFi-enabled via Rain Bird's LNK2 module. It currently connects to Rain Bird's legacy mobile app, but a transition to Rain Bird's 2.0 app and IQ 4 web platform is planned for 2025, which will bring expanded access and remote management options. Simplified SKUs and Installation Rain Bird is offering this platform with just two SKUs: the controller and a single-station decoder. That's a major advantage for distributors and contractors, who won't need to manage complex inventories of sensor decoders, grounding kits, or multi-station decoders. Behind the Scenes: Product Development Steve shared insights into the 2–3 year development timeline, which included field testing, focus groups, and engineering across multiple departments. The go

Andy introducing wireless sensor technology to Ohio and riffs about the "RHYTHM" of the landscape.

In this episode, Andy shares his process for manufacturing LoRaWAN wireless soil moisture sensors.

Join the Project Harmony Launch List: HarmonyAnalytica.com/future What does the future hold for your landscape business? Well, if you ask nine experts, you'll get 10 different answers. Some say we're heading for a lush, thriving growing season; others predict drought conditions. Some insist we'll get just enough rain this year—and someone else insists it's never enough. Let's be honest, nobody really knows... But now...there is one surefire way to future-proof your business and how you manage high asset value crops: Harmony Analytica. Harmony is the FIRST sensor analytics platform made for plant-focused professionals. It is currently used by leading institutions, managers, and contractors from Agricultural, to HOA, to Green Infrastructure everywhere.. But what does Harmony Analytica actually do? It brings all of your water consumption data, irrigation schedules, localized rainfall, soil moisture levels, environmental data, and plant health metrics together into one. single. platform. That means you have a single source of truth to manage your landscape assets. No more cobbling together spreadsheets or running multiple apps, or exporting for water use, from multiple software platforms—only to end up with a "dashboard" that's outdated the moment you finish assembling it. Do you juggle endless logins for systems like Rain Bird, Toro, Hunter, Baseline, WeatherTrack, RainMaster, Calsense, Weathermatic, Smart Rain…the list is fucking long, yeah? With Harmony Analytica you can affordably add sensors for one centralized command center, saving you time, simplifying your workflow, and giving you unparalleled insight into every aspect of your irrigation strategy -without spending thousands of dollars changing our controllers. Harmony Analytica knows exactly what you need: Real-Time Insights – to track water consumption, water pressure, soil moisture, local rainfall, evapotranspiration, and more. Accurate Planning – so you can schedule irrigation and manage your resources based on data, not guesswork. Visibility & Control – to make quick, informed decisions about your landscapes in one user-friendly dashboard. Think of this as the instrument panel of your horticultural fighter jet. You want all that data to be spot on and easily accessible—so your maintenance strategy is efficient, your plants are thriving, and your business is operating sustainably. Start with one sensor, grow with many. Harmony's modular platform ensures that no matter how small your business is today, or how large your landscape operations become, Harmony Analytica is designed to scale seamlessly right alongside you. There is no minimum to get started. In short: you need Harmony Analytica. It's an amazing opportunity to revolutionize how you manage landscapes. And speaking of opportunity, do yourself a favor: Apply Now, to join the Harmony Analytica Advisory Team, where you can become a part of the development team and help shape the future of the company. In this top-secret, private group, we will break down how to leverage cutting-edge tech to keep your landscapes greener—and your bottom line stronger. Signup today: Harmony Analytica.com/future, harmonayanalytica.com/future, harmonyanalytica.com/future.

In this episode of The Sprinkler Nerd Show, host Andy Humphrey starts off with an unapologetically bold greeting to illustrate the power of authenticity and grab listeners' attention. He gives a personal shout-out to friends, mentors, and colleagues he connected with during the week—highlighting the importance of real human relationships in an increasingly AI-dominated world. From there, Andy explores the rapid growth of AI and how it's poised to deliver personalized, mass-produced podcast content—comparing it to Walmart's ability to provide inexpensive, standardized groceries. But just as many people still prefer organic, home-cooked meals, Andy argues that listeners will continue to value authentic, human-created content. He emphasizes that AI, while a remarkable tool, simply can't capture the spontaneous quirks and genuine emotion inherent in a show crafted by a real person. Ultimately, Andy encourages creators (and listeners) to lean into their unique perspectives and passions. By embracing technology where it's helpful but maintaining the "handcrafted" essence of podcasting, we can build deeper connections and a vibrant community that values the human touch—something no AI can replicate.

Hello, friends! I wanted to take a moment to share a quick update on what's happening this week. I'll be traveling to Calgary and Edmonton, Canada, for the SiteOne Landscape Supply One Stop events. On Tuesday, I'll be at the Calgary event, and then on Thursday, I'll attend the Edmonton event. After that, I'll head back to the airport Thursday night and fly home on Friday. I had to adjust my travel plans a bit, departing from Grand Rapids instead of my usual airport because, upon my return, I'll be meeting up with my daughter. We're headed straight to a volleyball tournament in LaPorte, Indiana—an exciting way to wrap up the week! If you're in the Calgary or Edmonton area, I'd love for you to stop by the SiteOne events. Please make it a point to say hello! It's always a pleasure meeting industry professionals, and I'd love to hear what's happening in your world. An Update on Project Harmony For those of you following my journey to bring affordable wireless soil moisture sensors to market, I wanted to share some exciting news. We've successfully deployed a few hundred beta sensors—yes, handcrafted by yours truly! The beta launch has been a huge success, and if you'd like to learn more about Project Harmony, visit harmonyanalytica.com. If you're interested in participating in the beta program, you can receive a sensor and Wi-Fi hub for just $100. Simply visit harmonyanalytica.com/beta to sign up. I'm also looking for industry professionals who want to integrate wireless sensors into their business. I'm even considering launching a private group for beta users. In this group, I'd share everything I've learned on this journey, and together, we could build the next generation of water analytics and landscape insights. Behind the Scenes of Sensor Development What's fascinating about bringing sensors to market is that the biggest challenge hasn't been the measurements—it's been the manufacturing process. I've learned so much about 3D printing, epoxies, potting materials, and even things like glue types and vapor smoothing chambers. Right now, it's a 2-to-1 process—for every two sensors I manufacture, only one makes it to the field. Many work perfectly but have small cosmetic blemishes, making them unsellable based on current standards. This is one idea I'm considering for the beta group: offering these fully functional but slightly imperfect devices at no charge for testing and learning. If you're curious about how wireless sensors work, how they can add value to your business, and how we can revolutionize the industry together, I'd love to connect with you. Let's create the next wave of innovation outside of the traditional wholesale landscape manufacturers. That's my week ahead! I look forward to meeting any of you who are in Western Canada at the Calgary or Edmonton SiteOne One Stop events. Stop by and say hi—I'd love to connect. Thanks for listening, and let's keep innovating!