Ocho Consultant

Latest News & Tips

Welcome to our blog! Here you'll find the latest news, tips, and information about sprinkler systems, computer technology, and how Ocho Consultant can help you with your projects.

A note on Aiper IrriSense 2 Sprinkler Head

Posted on: May 1, 2026

Summary: Smart sprinkler heads like the Aiper IrriSense 2 can be useful, but they have hydraulic and regulatory limitations homeowners should understand before installing them, especially in Texas.

With the rise of smart sprinkler systems, new smart sprinkler heads like the Aiper IrriSense 2 have come to market. While the price and convenience sound good, as a licensed irrigator, I want homeowners to avoid future headaches with their systems, so here are a few things you need to know before installing one of these on your own.

- Follow water conservation guidelines in your area.
- Adjust your app appropriately for local weather forecasts. Many apps come with a default location nearby, so you may want to see if you can change locations in the app.
- These are rotor heads, as such, coverage at the nearest point from head is going to be unreliable (around the first 6 inches of coverage). Account for this so you do not have an ugly looking landscape.
- Adjust your watering schedule based on the season and locality. Many localities have specific schedules. Make sure you follow them.
- DO NOT USE the fertilizer package (SoilPulse) on the IrriSense 2 in Texas. Use of such converts your sprinkler into fertigation. This forces you to comply with Texas regulations and install, or get installed, an RPZ at the water meter, or house main, and inspect it every year since based on its advertising it uses microbial and organic material. Texas code is very clear on this: "(a) Before any chemical is added by any method (aspiration, injection, etc.) to an irrigation system which is connected to any potable water supply, the irrigation system shall be connected through a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly or air gap." (30 Texas Admin. Code 344.51).
- Even if a product claims to be “organic” or “safe,” Texas law defines fertigation by method, not by chemical. If any solution — nutrient, microbial, or organic — is injected or aspirated into an irrigation line connected to potable water, the system must include a Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly (RPZ) or an air gap. This requirement applies statewide, regardless of product safety claims or certifications such as WSDA and CDFA certifications. Marketing language does not override Texas administrative code.

Let me be clearer: The SoilPulse packet itself is not the issue. You can apply stakes, granules, or packets directly to the soil with no problem. The issue arises only when it is delivered through a system connected to potable water. Once water becomes the delivery method, the system is legally considered fertigation, and Texas requires an RPZ or an air gap to protect the drinking water supply.

If you need help designing, setting up, and/or maintaining these systems you can call us at 214-202-4792 and we will be glad to help you. We’re licensed and familiar with Texas irrigation code compliance.

Water Conservation Tips

Posted on: April 30, 2026

With water resources becoming increasingly precious, it's important to use your sprinkler system efficiently. Here are some tips to help you conserve water while maintaining a beautiful landscape:

- Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation
- Install rain sensors to prevent watering during rain. Many rain sensors come with freeze sensors, too, to prevent watering during freezes.
- Regularly check for and repair leaks. If you cannot do this on your own, do not hesitate to call a professional to do so, like us!
- Adjust your watering schedule based on the season and locality. Many localities have specific schedules. Make sure you follow them.
- Use drip irrigation for gardens and shrubs. Many localities have alse made it mandatory to use drip irrigation for curbs in new installations. Make sure your contractor is following regulation.

Choosing the Right Computer Hardware

Posted on: April 30, 2026

Selecting computer hardware can be overwhelming with so many options available. Here's a simple guide to help you choose the right equipment:

- For basic tasks: A mid-range processor and 8GB RAM is sufficient
- For business use: Consider a faster processor and 16GB RAM or more
- For gaming: High-end graphics card and at at least 16GB RAM
- For storage: 1TB hard drives are now affordable for most users with 240-480 SSDs.

Spring Sprinkler System Startup

Posted on: April 30, 2026

As spring is rolling by, it's time to think about starting up your sprinkler system. Here's a checklist to ensure your system is ready:

- Inspect all sprinkler heads for damage
- Check for any broken or leaking pipes
- Test the controller and replace batteries if needed
- Clear any debris from sprinkler heads and valves
- Gradually increase watering time as temperatures rise

If you need help with your spring startup, contact us to schedule a service call.