Every year, Fort Myers homeowners pour thousands of gallons of water onto their landscapes when they don’t need to. Your irrigation system should not run right after it rains, because when it does, you’re overwatering your yard—wasting money and breaking the law.
Florida mandates that all automatic irrigation systems have a working rain sensor. If your irrigation system keeps running after or even during rain, that’s a county or city code violation. Code enforcement doesn’t just warn you; they fine you. A single mistake can cost you hundreds.
What does a rain sensor actually do?
Rain sensors are a simple device that detects when it rains, and at that point, the sensor shuts off your irrigation system. When conditions are dry, the rain sensor allows irrigation to resume. That way, there is no waste, no hassle, and no unnecessary code enforcement fines.
In a nutshell, a rain sensor is a small device with a big impact. Yet so many homeowners still don’t have one—or have one that doesn’t work. If that’s you, it’s time to fix it.
How much water (and money) are you losing?
Irrigation without a rain sensor is like running your faucet all night. It’s wasteful, expensive, and completely avoidable. Here’s what happens when your system overwaters:
- Skyrocketing water bills – An irrigation system that runs after the rain burns through thousands of gallons of water you don’t need to be paying for.
- Weaker, sicker plants – Too much water drowns roots, causes rot, and spreads disease.
- Fines from code enforcement – In Fort Myers, that’s not just a warning—it’s real money out of your pocket.
Choosing the right rain sensor for your system
Not all rain sensors are equal. Here’s what to think about:
- Wired or wireless? Wireless sensors are easier to install and relocate. Wired ones are reliable and don’t need batteries.
- Adjustable shutoff? High-end sensors let you decide how much rain triggers a shutdown.
- Evaporation speed? Some sensors dry faster than others. A slow-drying model may delay irrigation longer, saving even more water.
Davidson Irrigation & Landscape Lighting installs the right rain sensor for your needs, factoring in your landscape, water restrictions, and type of irrigation system.
Installation matters—and so does maintenance
When we take over a maintenance contract from other irrigation companies, we often find they have installed the rain sensor in a poor location.
A sensor must be placed where it catches rain—without interference from trees, roofs, or sprinkler overspray. Install it in the wrong location, and the device won’t work. That’s why professional installation is key.
Regular maintenance is just as important. Over time, dirt and debris can block sensors, causing them to fail. A quick inspection by one of our professionals can prevent costly mistakes.
The smart upgrade: rain sensors + smart irrigation
Want the best possible system? Let us combine your rain sensor with a smart irrigation controller. These systems adjust watering schedules based on live weather data, humidity, and soil moisture. They don’t just shut off when it rains—they predict when watering is needed. That means even more efficiency, even lower bills, and zero guesswork.
Davidson Irrigation & Landscape Lighting specializes in cutting-edge irrigation solutions designed for Fort Myers’ unique climate. If you want a system that adapts to the weather, we can build it.
Don’t wait for a fine—fix your system today
If your irrigation system runs when it rains or right after a storm, you’re wasting water and risking legal trouble. A simple rain sensor solves both.
Davidson Irrigation & Landscape Lighting makes it easy. We install, test, and maintain rain sensors so your system works right—every time. Don’t gamble with your water bill or city regulations.
Book your rain sensor installation now
Cut water waste. Stay compliant. Protect your landscape.
Davidson Irrigation & Landscape Lighting is Fort Myers’ expert in irrigation efficiency. Whether you need a new rain sensor, a system upgrade, or maintenance, we’re here to help.
Call (239) 275-8569 to schedule your installation today.
