Installing and programming the Hunter Hydrawise irrigation computer – step by step
Automatic garden watering with the Hunter Hydrawise controller brings more convenience, efficiency and control to my lawn, bed and hedge watering. In this article, I will show you the complete transition from the classic Hunter X-Core to the smart Hydrawise control system – including WLAN setup, zone programming, sensor integration and weather-based adjustment with Solar Sync and Predictive Watering. I describe how my existing system was expanded and modernized, which functions make the difference and what to look out for during installation. A field report with many technical details – from practice, for practice.
What you can expect in this blog post – at a glance:
- Why I automated my garden irrigation and switched from Hunter X-Core to Hydrawise
- Technical comparison of both control units: functions, advantages, limits
- Construction of my modular system with star-shaped water distribution and several valve boxes
- Step-by-step instructions for removing the X-Core and installing the Hunter Hydrawise
- WLAN setup, serial number registration and commissioning of the control unit
- Detailed configuration of the zones with schedules, running times and soakage phases
- Weather-based control with virtual solar sync and predictive watering
- Integration of sensors, manual control and use of time windows and priorities
- Expansion options with HC modules and Pro-HC devices for larger systems
- My conclusion after the switch – and why the change is worth it in the long term
Why I automated my garden irrigation system
In my garden, I have been using automated lawn irrigation, bed irrigation and hedge irrigation for years. The system supplies different zones with precisely metered quantities of water – adapted to the type of plant, soil conditions and position in the sun. The biggest advantage is the automation: I no longer have to water manually and can reliably keep to the optimum times – early in the morning or in the evening, for example – even when I’m not at home.
This not only saves time, but also water. No area is over- or undersupplied thanks to the even and needs-based supply. Efficient water use plays a key role, especially during prolonged droughts or in the hot summer months. The integration of sensors – such as soil moisture sensors or rain sensors – makes the system even more precise. It is only watered when it is really necessary.
If you are new to the topic of automatic garden irrigation, you will find a detailed overview of planning, component selection and implementation in my article “Planning automatic garden irrigation – step-by-step instructions for efficient lawn irrigation” – including lots of practical tips from my own garden.
This solution can also be useful for readers who have not yet installed automatic irrigation – whether for lawn care, to maintain a kitchen garden or to care for plants during vacation periods. It is precisely at this point that you can see why a pure time control computer like the Hunter X-Core reaches its limits at some point. In my case, this was the trigger to switch to a modern, smart system with a WLAN connection: the Hunter Hydrawise.
Hunter X-Core in use – reliable, but technically limited
The Hunter X-Core control unit I have used so far has worked reliably for many years. It controls up to eight stations, offers three separate programs with four start times each and allows precise definition of watering days, start times and run times. In my garden, this was sufficient: I used it to water lawns, flower beds and hedges on a timed basis – without a digital interface, but with a stable function.
Manual seasonal adjustment of the running times was also possible, as was the integration of a rain sensor that pauses irrigation in the event of precipitation. It is operated directly on the appliance – via rotary controls and simple button functions.
Despite these advantages, the X-Core irrigation computer is only partially up to date today. There is a lack of smart connectivity: changes to the watering schedule have to be made on site, there is no app control, no access via Wi-Fi and no real-time data. The integration of additional sensors or precise readjustment via weather data is also only possible to a limited extent – and even then only with additional modules such as the Solar Sync Sensor.
What I haven’t used yet but is worth mentioning is that the X-Core also supports functions such as cycle and soak phases, pump start relays, main valve control, one sensor override per zone, as well as test programs and an easy-retrieve memory function for saved programming. These functions are helpful in practice – but are difficult to access and can only be operated directly on the device.
Overall, the X-Core remains a solid control unit for simple systems. But with growing demands for convenience, efficiency and digital control, the system is reaching its limits. This is exactly where the Hydrawise system comes in – as a modern and smart alternative for automatic garden irrigation, or irrigation system.
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Why the Hunter X-Core reaches its limits in certain situations
In everyday use, the Hunter X-Core works reliably – as long as everything goes according to plan. The preset programs run as expected, the rain sensor stops watering in the event of precipitation and the control dial is easy to use. But this manual set-up can be a disadvantage if conditions change and I can’t intervene on site.
A practical example: shortly before a long vacation, it had been raining for weeks. To avoid risking unnecessary watering, I deactivated the control unit using the rotary wheel – the X-Core offers a simple “OFF” function for this purpose. While I was away, the weather changed: it became very hot and dry, but I had no way of reactivating the X-Core remotely. The result: some beds and freshly planted plants have dried out.
This would not have happened with the Hunter Hydrawise control unit, also a product from Hunter Industries. Thanks to the Wi-Fi connection and access via the Hydrawise app, I could have reactivated the system at any time and from anywhere. Even better: the system would have reacted itself. The weather-based control system with virtual Solar Sync continuously evaluates the temperature and precipitation and automatically adjusts the watering schedule – even when I’m on vacation or don’t have time.
Hunter X-Core vs Hunter Hydrawise – A direct comparison
| Function | Hunter X-Core | Hunter Hydrawise |
|---|---|---|
| Number of zones | Up to 8 (not expandable) | Up to 12 (expandable to 36 with modules) |
| Programs & start times | 3 programs with 4 start times each | Individual start times & priorities per zone |
| WLAN/App control | ❌ not possible | ✅ Hydrawise app (iOS, Android, web) |
| Weather-based customization | Only with additional Solar Sync Sensor | Integrated (virtual solar sync) |
| Remote access | ❌ Can only be operated locally | ✅ Possible at any time via internet connection |
| Rain sensor support | Yes, via SEN connection | Yes, additional soil moisture and flow sensor |
| Notifications & warnings | ❌ not available | ✅ e.g. in the event of faults, leakage or failure |
| Cycle and seepage phases | Yes, but difficult to access | Yes, intuitively adjustable per zone |
| Program backup & diagnostics | Partially possible (Easy Retrieve, Quick Check) | Fully viewable via app |
| Weather stations | Only via external sensor | Automatic or manually selectable (Enthusiast plan) |
| User profile & cloud connection | ❌ not available | ✅ Hydrawise account with access history |
Conclusion:
The Hunter X-Core is a robust, classic irrigation controller that is particularly suitable for simple systems that require little customization. However, if you want more flexibility, remote access, automatic adjustment to weather data and a modern user interface, the Hunter Hydrawise system is a much more intelligent and convenient solution – especially in changeable weather conditions or when you are away for long periods.
In the next section, I will show you how I actually carried out the conversion and what to look out for during installation and configuration.
Modular design of my irrigation system with valve boxes and zone control
My irrigation system has a modular design: I have installed a separate valve box for each larger garden area – i.e. lawn, beds or hedges. These boxes are each located close to the associated irrigation zone so that the distances to the sprinklers can be kept short. The system is controlled by solenoid valves, each of which supplies one zone with water.
The central main water pipe runs in a star shape from the house connection to the individual valve boxes. In some areas, the line is also connected in series – in this case, the main line is routed through the first valve box and then looped through to the next box. This allows the distribution to be flexibly adapted to the local conditions in the garden.
You can find a detailed step-by-step guide to laying the pipes and choosing the right lawn sprinkler in my article “Installing a lawn sprinkler – step-by-step guide to watering your garden”.
Each valve box contains one or more 24 V solenoid valves. These are connected to the control unit via a common earth cable (COM) and a separate control line for each zone. The COM cable is collected in the respective box and brought together with the other COM cables – at the control unit it ends at the common earth connection. The individual control lines are connected to the respective zone connections.
Optionally, a main valve or a pump start relay can also be connected, which only releases water or activates a pump when a zone is irrigated. In my case, no pump start relay is used, as I cannot or am not allowed to use a cistern or a well. The water is supplied directly via the house connection, and each zone is controlled individually via the associated solenoid valve – an additional main valve is therefore useful, but I don’t use it either.
This modular design has proved its worth in my garden – it is clear, expandable and allows each zone to be supplied specifically. In the next step, I will describe the replacement of the previous control unit, the Hunter X-Core, with the new Hunter Hydrawise – including all the important details on wiring and setup.
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Installation and wiring of the Hunter Hydrawise control unit
Preparation and disassembly of the Hunter X-Core
Before I started the conversion, I first checked whether the existing Hunter X-Core transformer was compatible with the new Hunter Hydrawise control unit. In fact, the transformer even had the exact same model number, which made the replacement much easier – I was able to continue using it 1:1 without having to make any adjustments to the power supply.
Dismantling the old X-Core was straightforward. First I disconnected the power supply and de-energized the control unit. The terminals were then opened and the control lines disconnected one after the other – starting with the transformer connection, then the common earth cable (COM) and finally the individual zone lines. As I had already numbered and documented all the wires during installation, it was easy to assign them to the new device later on. The X-Core was removed from the wall bracket and set aside.
Installation of the new Hydrawise control unit
A major advantage of my installation is that it is mounted on a cavity wall. This allowed me to feed all the cables – including two thick control cable harnesses and the power cable – from behind through the wall into the new Hydrawise device in exactly the right position. I drilled new holes in the wall for the cable routing so that the cables could be routed cleanly and directly into the housing via the shortest route.
I have precisely aligned and marked the position of the new device. They are fixed with cavity wall plugs, which ensures a stable hold, especially with plasterboard or lightweight partition walls. The housing of the Hydrawise was then hung over the screw heads and secured with a second screw.
Important:
The serial number of the Hydrawise control unit is located on the back of the housing. I documented it before installation, as it is required later for the setup in the Hydrawise account.
Connection of the control lines
When connecting to the terminals, ensure that the wires are properly stripped and not damaged. Each control line was connected to the corresponding zone terminal 1 to 7. As the Hydrawise has two connection points for the COM, I was able to connect my two earth cables to one terminal each. The order is not decisive – what is important is correct allocation and reliable contacting. The transformer used was connected via the supplied terminals – the polarity is irrelevant at 24 V AC.
I use YSLY-JZ control cable in my system, which has a yellow-green protective conductor. As the garden irrigation system is a low-voltage 24 V AC control system, I use this yellow-green wire as a common earth cable (COM). This is common for control cables of this type, but can lead to misunderstandings among electricians who interpret the wire as a classic protective conductor.
⚠️ Note: Work on electrical systems may only be carried out by persons who are familiar with the applicable regulations. Care should also be taken with 24 V AC, especially when laying and protecting cables indoors.
Logging HydraWise into WLAN
Once connected, the device was switched on – the setup wizard started automatically and guided us through the initial basic settings. Wi-Fi can be set up in two ways: either directly on the device via the integrated display or later via the Hydrawise app or the web browser. I set up the WLAN directly on the device by selecting my 2.4 GHz network and entering the password. I initially skipped all the other points in the wizard – such as time settings, zone system or sensors – as I wanted to be able to make these conveniently later on the PC in the web interface. This meant that the configuration could be carried out in peace and with a better overview on the large screen.
- Intelligente Beregnung basierend auf lokalen Wetterbedingungen mit vorausschauender Anpassung
- Verwenden Sie die App als Fernsteuerung für erhöhte Effizienz
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Hydrawise app & online setup
As soon as the control unit is online, it is registered in the Hydrawise account. This registration is necessary to connect the device to the Hydrawise Cloud and gain access to all smart functions. Without an account, only very limited use is possible – full programming and operation then takes place exclusively on the device itself, without weather integration, remote access or automated evaluations.
By registering, I have access to the following additional functions, among others:
- Access via the Hydrawise app or the web browser
- Remote control of the system from anywhere
- Automatic weather adjustment through virtual Solar Sync
- Push notifications and alerts
- User profile with saved settings and schedules
- Integration of sensors (e.g. soil moisture, flow rate, rain)
- Choice between standard mode and advanced mode
The setup is done step by step via the app or the web interface: I can create zones, create schedules, select the mode and adjust the system to the respective needs in the garden.
Hydrawise web app:
🌐 https://app.hydrawise.com
Hydrawise app for Android:
📱 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hunterindustries.hydrawise
Hydrawise app for iOS:
📱 https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hydrawise/id1618847331
As soon as the device is registered in the account, it can be managed completely online – conveniently from your smartphone, tablet or PC.
Video: Hydrawise test – How I converted my Hunter X-Core to smart
In this video I show step by step how I replaced my old Hunter X-Core control unit with a modern Hunter Hydrawise system. I explain the preparation, installation, electrical connection and configuration via the app – including Wi-Fi setup, schedules, zone control and sensor integration. I will also discuss typical sources of error and show you what to pay particular attention to when retrofitting.
In my playlist on the subject of automatic garden irrigation, I have posted a large number of videos on my garden irrigation system. I have also published my videos in my blog category Irrigation.
If you want to see more of me and my projects, have a look at my YouTube channel.
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Configure zones: Schedules, symbols and soak phases
Set each zone individually
After setting up the WLAN access and registering in the Hydrawise account, the individual zones are configured. In my case, each zone corresponds to a separate valve that supplies a specific garden area such as the lawn, beds or hedges. The system allows each zone to be defined separately, programmed individually and linked to sensors if required.
Name, symbol and zone number
I first give each zone a unique name, for example “south-facing lawn”, “patio hedge” or “raised bed”. Naming helps with the overview later on, especially if several zones are displayed in the app. In addition, a suitable symbol can be selected in order to recognize the zones visually more quickly. The zone number is based on the physical connection on the control unit – for example, zone 1 is terminal 1 on the control unit, zone 2 corresponds to terminal 2, etc.
Irrigation type: Time-controlled, Solar Sync or Smart
During configuration, I select the desired control mode for each zone. Three options are available:
- Time-controlled: Irrigation runs exactly according to a set schedule, which is defined in the zones and schedules of the irrigation system. I define fixed start times, watering days and run times using the Hydrawise software. This variant is suitable for simple applications, but is not weather-dependent.
- Virtual Solar Sync: The system accesses local weather data and automatically adjusts the running time to current conditions such as temperature and precipitation. The running time is extended on hot days and reduced on rainy days or when evaporation is low.
- Smart (Predictive Watering): This function goes one step further. In addition to current weather data, the system also takes weather forecasts into account. If rain is expected, for example, planned irrigation can be brought forward or suspended. This leads to a particularly efficient use of water.
Which variant makes sense depends on the plant population, the soil type and the desired degree of automation. In my case, I use Smart mode for sun-exposed lawns and Solar Sync for beds with lower water requirements.
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Running time, start times and irrigation days
Each zone requires individual settings for the runtime, i.e. the duration of watering. This depends on the water flow rate of the sprinklers, the soil conditions and the needs of the plants. In my case, the running time for the MP rotator zones is between 10 and 18 minutes, and up to 45 minutes for drip zones.
Several start times per day can be defined for each zone – for example, early in the morning and in the evening – which is particularly helpful in summer. I can also specify the days on which watering takes place: Either on certain days of the week, only on even or odd calendar days or at fixed intervals (e.g. every two days). This flexibility allows very targeted control.
Cycle and seepage phases
A significant advantage over simple control units such as the X-Core is the ability to configure cycle and soak phases. This function is particularly important in heavy, poorly permeable soil or on slopes.
Here, the entire running time is divided into shorter intervals – the so-called cycle time. There is a defined pause between these intervals, the so-called soak time. This gives the water time to soak into the soil before the next quantity is applied. This prevents surface runoff and makes better use of the soil’s absorption capacity.
Example: Instead of watering for 20 minutes at a time, the zone can be watered in 4 cycles of 5 minutes each with a 10-minute break. The result is the same, but without puddles and water loss.
Advanced settings
In advanced mode, Hydrawise offers additional functions for optimization:
- Percentage adjustment: Here I can manually increase or decrease the watering factor for the zone – for example, if an area is particularly sunny or dries out more due to wind. The runtime is then adjusted accordingly without having to change the entire schedule.
- Learning functions: The system automatically adjusts the runtime based on real conditions using the “Learn current from next run” function. It evaluates how long the zone really needs water to be sufficiently supplied.
- Flow monitoring (with sensor): If an optional flow sensor is installed, the system can monitor the water consumption per zone. Deviations from standard consumption – for example due to leaks or blocked sprinklers – are detected and reported as a warning.
These advanced settings allow for more precise and efficient irrigation – tailored to the actual conditions on site.
Conclusion on zone configuration
Thanks to the fine granular control of each individual zone, I can operate my entire garden irrigation system in a much more targeted and water-saving way. Whether lawns, flower beds, hedges or drip lines – every area receives exactly the amount of water it needs at the right time. The combination of weather-based control, cycle function and learning behavior clearly sets the Hydrawise system apart from the classic control unit and makes it a future-proof solution for modern, efficient garden irrigation.
- Bodenfeuchtegrad und Status auf einen Blick
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Weather-based control with Solar Sync and predictive watering
A major advantage of the Hydrawise system over conventional control units is its intelligent, weather-based irrigation control. While conventional systems such as the Hunter X-Core can be optionally equipped with a physical rain sensor, the Hydrawise system uses the virtual Solar Sync function as standard – without any additional hardware.
Virtual Solar Sync: weather data instead of sensor
The virtual solar sync function is based on the evaluation of current weather data from up to five weather stations in the vicinity. Parameters such as temperature, precipitation, humidity and solar radiation are taken into account. This data comes from a professional weather service and is updated regularly.
The system uses this to calculate the so-called evapotranspiration (ET) – i.e. the actual water requirement of the plants based on evaporation and plant consumption. The running times of the individual zones are then automatically adjusted on a daily basis:
- The runtime is increased in bright sunlight or intense heat.
- In the event of rain, high humidity or low evaporation, the running time is reduced or the zone is skipped completely.
Compared to the conventional rain sensor, which only switches off when there is actual precipitation, the virtual Solar Sync reacts based on forecasts and more precisely, even in changeable weather.
Predictive watering: predictive instead of reactive
With predictive watering, the system goes one step further. It not only takes current weather data into account, but also actively incorporates weather forecasts for the next few days into the control system.
Example: If rain is forecast for tomorrow, irrigation planned for today will be reduced or postponed – even if it is currently still dry. Conversely, watering can be brought forward if hot spells are expected in the next few days. The aim is to cover plant requirements at an early stage and save water at the same time.
This dynamic adjustment takes place per zone and on the basis of the individual runtime and floor settings. In combination with the cycle and soak function, this results in maximum efficient, needs-based irrigation.
Weather stations and Hydrawise plans
By default – i.e. in the free Home plan – the Hydrawise system automatically selects a suitable weather station from the surrounding area. This automatic selection is sufficient in many cases, especially if several professional stations with high data quality are available in the vicinity.
However, if you want to make a manual selection, compare several weather stations or integrate your own Netatmo station, you will need the paid Enthusiast plan. This also offers more accurate weather data, extended customization options and diagnostic functions for more demanding applications.
Weather-based control via Solar Sync and Predictive Watering is a central element of the Hydrawise system – it not only replaces the rain sensor, but also optimizes irrigation daily and automatically, in line with current and expected environmental conditions. This saves water, protects plants and ensures sustainable garden maintenance.
Control unit settings: Main valve, pump relay and sensors
The Hydrawise control unit offers extended connection options that go beyond pure zone control. These include the control of a main valve or pump start relay as well as the integration of various sensors for the automated optimization of irrigation.
Main valve and pump start relay via the master output
There is a special output on the control unit which is marked as the master output (P). This can control either a main valve or a pump start relay. The function: As soon as any zone is activated, the master output switches automatically – so water only flows when watering is actually taking place.
A main valve is typically installed directly behind the water connection and blocks the line during idle phases. This increases safety in the system, especially when valves and pipes are permanently under pressure. A pump start relay is used when the water is supplied via a cistern, a well or a separate garden pump. Instead of switching the pump on and off manually, the control unit takes over control automatically.
Important:
The Hydrawise control unit supplies 24 V AC control voltage. Direct control of a 230 V pump is not permitted. An approved relay or contactor must always be connected in between, which is switched with the 24 V AC signal and safely disconnects the mains voltage. The power consumption of the relay must not exceed 0.3 A in order not to overload the control output.
In my own system, I do not use a main valve or pump relay, as the water is supplied via the house connection and I do not have a pump or intermediate station in operation. The connection is nevertheless prepared and can be retrofitted at any time.
Integrate sensors: Rain sensor, soil moisture and flow rate
Hydrawise supports a large number of external sensors that are integrated via the SEN connections on the control unit. These significantly expand the functions and enable adaptive control based on real environmental conditions.
Rain sensors (e.g. Rain-Clik or Solar Sync): They automatically interrupt watering when it rains. The sensor is connected between the SEN terminals and temporarily replaces the weather-based control when the signal is active.
Soil moisture sensors: These measure the moisture content in the root zone. If the soil is sufficiently moist, watering is skipped for the affected zone. This prevents overwatering and optimizes the plant supply. For operation, calibration is usually carried out directly on the plant.
Flow sensors: Monitor the water flow of each individual zone. This allows leaks, burst pipes or blocked nozzles to be detected automatically. If the current flow rate value deviates significantly from the previously learned reference value, the system generates a warning message in the app or in the web interface.
Sensor integration is zone-specific and can be fully combined with the smart functions. Faulty measured values or alarms are clearly displayed – depending on the configuration, the affected zone is automatically adjusted or switched off.
The option of connecting the main valve, pump relay and sensors directly to the control unit expands the classic zone control system into an intelligent and responsive system. In combination with the weather-based control and flexible zone configuration, even complex gardens can be automated efficiently and water-savingly.
- Überwacht ständig das Bewässerungssystem, um auf abnormale Durchflussbedingungen zu warnen
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- Leicht ablesbares Zifferblatt auf der Vorderseite des Messgeräts zeigt tägliche Durchflusssummen und eine schnelle visuelle Anzeige zur Leckerkennung an
- Wenn Bedingungen mit hohem oder niedrigem Durchfluss erkannt werden, sendet Hydrawise sofort eine Warnung, um das Problem zu beheben, bevor Landschaftsschäden auftreten
Smart and flexible: time slots, priorities and manual control
In addition to weather and zone-based automation, the Hydrawise system offers additional functions to adapt irrigation to complex conditions. Particularly in systems with many zones, limited water availability or fixed operating times, flexible rules can be defined using time windows, priority levels and manual control.
Set time window for irrigation
A so-called time window can be defined for each zone or for the entire system. This specifies the period during which irrigation may take place at all – for example, only between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. to minimize evaporation and relieve the burden on the city water.
The time window does not directly limit the watering duration of individual zones, but forms a framework within which all active programs and zones must be processed. If the time window is exceeded, the cycle ends – even if not all zones have been fully irrigated. This behavior can be specifically controlled.
Set priorities for zones
Zones with low priority can be defined in extended mode. These are only watered if there is still enough time left within the time window. This means, for example, that ornamental beds or less sensitive planting areas can be placed at the back, while lawns or sensitive crops are given priority.
Zones with a low priority are automatically skipped if the time window has already been exhausted by zones with a higher priority. This function is particularly useful if the water supply is limited or external specifications (e.g. municipal restrictions) must be adhered to.
Manual control via app or web
Despite all the automation, manual control is maintained at all times. The Hydrawise app or the web interface can be used to manage individual zones at any time:
- Start or stop manually (e.g. for new plantings or test runs)
- Irrigate directly without changing the programming
- Temporarily suspend or adjust schedules
- Monitor consumption values such as the current flow rate, provided a corresponding sensor is installed
Manual control via the app is particularly helpful in practice – for example when winterizing, during maintenance work or for targeted re-watering after new planting.
Thanks to the combination of time control, priorities and flexible manual intervention options, the Hydrawise system can be tailored precisely to individual requirements and external conditions – whether for small gardens, complex plots or professional green space maintenance.
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Extension modules and Pro-HC devices
The Hydrawise control unit I use is the classic HC model with 12 zones, which already enables a very large coverage area for private gardens. If you need more than 12 zones, the system can be expanded modularly: Optional HC expansion modules can be used to expand the system’s capacity to up to 36 zones.
Hunter HC extension modules: Technical structure and integration
The HC extension modules each have a further 12 zones and are connected directly to the main control unit using the connection cable supplied. The modules receive their power supply via this connection and appear automatically in the Hydrawise interface after setup.
Pay attention to this during installation:
- The modules must be installed in close proximity (max. 50 cm) to the main device
- Each module is given a unique ID (1 or 2) in the system, which is assigned both on the device and in the web interface
- The additional zones are wired in the same way as the main device, with their own COM connection and zone terminals
After the physical connection, the module is registered in the Hydrawise account under “Add extensions”. The additional zones can then be named, programmed and monitored as usual.
Anyone interested in the classic programming of a time control device such as the Hunter X-Core can find detailed instructions in my article “Programming the Hunter X-Core control computer for garden irrigation” – including typical applications and tips for setting directly on the device.
Hunter Pro-HC series: For outdoor use
In addition to the HC device for indoor use, Hunter also offers the Pro-HC series, which has been specially developed for outdoor use. The housing is more robust, weatherproof and suitable for continuous use in unprotected outdoor areas. Ideal for installations on carports, garden sheds or directly in the outdoor area of commercial facilities.
Technically, the Pro-HC device is based on the same Hydrawise platform, but offers:
- Robust plastic housing with seal
- Permanently integrated power supply unit for direct connection to 230 V
- Higher protection class against dust and moisture
- Variants for 6, 12 or 24 zones, some expandable ex works
The configuration and app control is identical to the HC series – all functions such as Solar Sync, predictive watering, sensor integration and advanced scheduling are fully included.
Anyone who operates a larger irrigation system or needs to install the system outdoors will benefit from the Pro-HC series. Anyone looking for a compact solution for protected indoor areas, on the other hand, is ideally equipped with the HC 12 and optional extension modules – especially thanks to the simple retrofitting options and modular design.
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Summary: From X-Core to smart control with Hydrawise
By switching from the classic Hunter X-Core to the modern Hunter Hydrawise control unit, I have taken my entire garden irrigation system to a new level. While the X-Core ran reliably for many years, it increasingly reached its limits due to the lack of WLAN control, limited program options and a lack of weather connection – especially during longer absences or changeable weather.
The new Hydrawise control system not only offers me app-based operation and remote access via the internet, but also intelligent functions such as virtual solar sync, predictive watering, cycle and soak phases and the integration of external sensors for more precise irrigation.
Thanks to the modular cabling with valve boxes per zone and the simple retrofitting of the new control unit, I was able to completely take over my existing system. Each irrigation zone can be individually configured – adapted to the type of plant, soil, position in the sun and water requirements.
The changeover not only saves time and water, but also brings more safety and convenience to everyday life – for example through automatic adjustments in the event of rain or heat, or through manual control via app, even when I’m not at home.
For anyone already using a classic controller such as the Hunter X-Core or thinking about a new installation, the Hydrawise system is a smart, future-proof alternative with real added value for daily watering in the garden.
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Frequently asked questions about automatic garden irrigation with the Hunter Hydrawise control unit
- What is the difference between Hunter X-Core and Hydrawise?
The X-Core is a classic, locally controllable device without WLAN function. Hydrawise, on the other hand, is a smart system with app access, weather-based customization, more flexibility in schedules and advanced sensor integration. - Can I continue to use my existing system with the Hydrawise?
Yes. If 24 V solenoid valves are already installed, the wiring can be adopted. Existing rain sensors can also be integrated. - How is the Hydrawise device integrated into the WLAN?
Either directly via the display of the control unit or via the Hydrawise app. The device connects to a 2.4 GHz WLAN and requires the Internet for app access and weather data. - Can the system also be used without the Internet?
Basic functions such as manual control or fixed schedules also work without the Internet. A connection to the Hydrawise Cloud is required for smart functions such as predictive watering. - How does weather-based control work?
Via the virtual Solar Sync, the system accesses weather data and forecasts, automatically adjusts the running times and thus optimizes water consumption. - How many zones can I control with Hydrawise?
Up to 12 zones depending on model (HC 12). Up to 36 zones can be controlled via extension modules (12 zones each). - Which sensors can be connected?
Hydrawise supports rain sensors, soil moisture sensors and flow sensors – these help with optimization and fault detection in the system. - Can I also start or stop the system manually?
Yes. Zones can be started, stopped or run through manually at any time via the app or the web interface – regardless of the schedule. - How do I maintain the system?
The app displays status messages, warnings or sensor errors. Maintenance includes regular visual inspections, function tests and the removal of dirt from the sensors and sprinklers. - What happens if there is a power failure during irrigation?
The Hydrawise control unit saves the programming permanently in the internal memory. In the event of a power failure, ongoing watering pauses but does not continue automatically. Once the power supply has been restored, the system will continue to run as usual after the next scheduled start time.
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