Wired rain sensors are generally more affordable and have fewer components that can break over time, but they require a direct connection with the controller, which can limit where you can place it. Wireless rain sensors offer much more flexibility with placement but they can be more expensive and have more parts. If you’re not sure which you need, we recommend purchasing the wireless sensor so that you have greater range to mount in different spots.

Both the wired and wireless sensors need direct view to the sky above them to capture precipitation. Do not mount under an awning, tree or other obstruction. The sensor can also detect temperatures below 37 degrees Fahrenheit so be sure to mount it away from any source of heat like a dryer vent.

If the temperature drops below 37 degrees Fahrenheit, the sensor will send a signal to the controller to prevent it from running your sprinklers. This can help avoid negative effects on your plants and help avoid frozen sprinkler components.

Rachio’s Weather Intelligence is proactive, looking ahead at forecasts. Rain sensors deliver on-the-ground accuracy exactly where rain is falling. Rachio controllers simply work better with more data as forecasts will never be 100% correct. Additionally, some states like California, Texas and Florida have laws requiring rain sensors in some cases for yards with in-ground irrigation.

No, the wired sensor uses power from the controller. The wireless sensor/transmitter has a pre-installed battery that has an estimated 10-year life span and the receiver uses power from the controller.

The wire is 25 feet (about 7.5 meters), but it can be extended. Click here to view Hunter’s wire gauge recommendation.

Yes, the wireless receiver has a sensor override button.

Yes, Hunter Rain-Clik devices have five-year warranties. Click here to learn more.