After fixing and explaining the initial problem, we always walked the customer through the system using the remote. We also took this time to point out various other problems or flaws in the system. Rarely does an irrigation system have no room for improvement. Selling additional work is much easier when you’re not wasting your time and energy running back and forth between the controller and the customer. The remote we used allowed us to run multiple zones at the same time, so explaining coverage issues was much easier. Sometimes we got permission to fix the issue immediately, so a small 1-hour- billing-job became a 5-hour-billing-job. Other times we got the customer back on the calendar immediately for a future service call. Customers recognized they were getting value because they were dealing with a company that optimized efficiency to minimize labor costs.

 But the remote’s added sales opportunities aren’t its only advantage. The remote’s benefits also include the following:

• Eliminates the need for two person crews
• Makes it easier to train new technicians
• Speeds up wire troubleshooting issues
• Allows rear entry garages to remain locked, eliminating theft problems
• Speeds up winter blowouts and spring turn ons
• Lowers landscape maintenance companies’ cost to fulfill the irrigation checkout portion of their contract
• Makes systems with hard-to-reach controllers easier to service
• Speeds up flushing to install nozzles and make final adjustments on new systems
• Speeds up final walk throughs

 This list doesn’t include the many minor repairs that often get overlooked or pushed aside because they’re too much trouble to fix, but often contribute to customer dissatisfaction. Once the endless trips back and forth to the controller have been eliminated, fixing these becomes a no-brainer.

 So, now you’re convinced that remotes are the way to go, but which one? If your company only deals with one manufacturer’s controller then it’s most cost efficient to use the manufacturer-specific remote. In most cases, however, service technicians are dealing with multiple brands of controllers, so a universal remote would be a much better purchase. The two products I would consider are the Rain Master Promax UA and the TRC Commander and Sidekick. Each has its particular advantages, so explore the features of each thoroughly to find the one that best fits your needs and budget.

 It takes a leap of faith to believe that by becoming a more efficient irrigator—one who goes the extra mile on quality—it will lead to more customers. Not all customers will appreciate the results of your investment in an irrigation remote; but those who do are the type of customers you want. They will also become your best word of mouth for new customers.