-
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.
-
Network wireless smoke detectors across several floors: How X-Sense Link+ protects your whole house!
X-Sense wireless smoke detectors in the test: In my multi-storey old building with thick walls, it was clear that normal smoke alarms were not enough. I installed the X-Sense Link Plus system with wirelessly networked smoke detectors and CO detectors and put it through its paces. In this article, I show how smoke detectors with wireless technology perform in practice, how the setup works with and without an app and which variant is suitable for which application scenario. You’ll also find information on mandatory smoke alarms in Germany, the technology behind the devices and my detailed practical test with video.
-
Build your own pool terrace with stone slabs on a slope
Building a poolside terrace on a slope is a real challenge – especially when there is hardly any space for a classic substructure. In this article, I show you how I created a stable, long-lasting plateau using formwork stones, gravel, chippings and patio slabs. I document the entire construction process in detail, from excavation to setting the formwork stones and laying the slabs – including all tips on material selection, height adjustment and joint filling. Ideal for anyone who wants to upgrade their pool area in the garden both functionally and visually.
-
Dreame A1 Pro in test – Cordless robotic lawnmower without boundary wire & RTK
The Dreame A1 Pro robotic lawnmower is a wireless robotic lawnmower without a boundary wire, RTK or external antennae – and I was able to test it extensively for several weeks. In this article, I will show you how the Dreame A1 robotic lawnmower with LiDAR navigation, app control and intelligent obstacle detection works, where its strengths lie and where there is still room for improvement. All the technical data, my everyday experiences and a detailed comparison with other robotic lawnmowers – now in the full test report.
-
6 Hunter pop-up sprinklers for optimum lawn irrigation in the test
Hunter pop-up sprinklers, geared sprinklers and MP Rotators compared in practice: In this article, I show you which sprinklers have proven themselves in my garden – from classic Hunter geared sprinklers such as the I-20 and PGP Ultra to the compact PGJ and pressure-regulated PRS40 housings with MP Rotator nozzles. I share my experiences from daily use, compare the models with each other and give tips on planning efficient lawn irrigation. If you want to optimize your garden irrigation, you will find lots of helpful information here – including direct recommendations and a clear comparison table.
-
Building a BPC and WPC terrace on a slope – My new pool terrace with recycled boards
BPC decking, slope, pool construction and substructure – in this post I show how I built my new pool deck with recycled BPC boards, solid larch beams and aluminum profiles. The pool is located on a slope, which places special demands on stability, gradient and load-bearing capacity. I share my experiences with BPC and WPC, explain the differences in installation and show what really matters when it comes to a durable, resilient decking construction. If you want to build a patio yourself, you’ll find lots of practical tips and insights here.
