Rain Bird Develops New WR2-48 Wireless Rain/Freeze Sensor for California Market

TUCSON, AZ. (Dec. 7, 2016) —Since its drought made headlines in 2015, the state of California has introduced various mandates to help conserve water. Recently, the state introduced a new mandate against irrigating for 48 hours after a rainfall of one-quarter inch or more. To help Californians meet this new restriction, Rain Bird is introducing the new WR2-48 Wireless Rain/Freeze Sensor. This model will be available for purchase in early 2017.

“We’ve taken the familiar and powerful design of our original WR2 Wireless Rain/Freeze Sensor and re-engineered it specifically for California,” said Joe Porrazzo, Rain Bird product manager. “This particular model now automatically prevents irrigation for 48 hours after detecting at least ¼ inch of rainfall. Specially designed algorithms detect the sensor change and trigger the 48-hour timer.”

To make the new WR2-48 easy to read, Rain Bird has programmed the display to exhibit a blinking “X” to indicate the 48-hour hold is active. This innovation helps Californians conserve a minimum of 30% more water with no negative impact on their turf and plants.

The WR2-48 still includes all the features that have made the original WR2 so popular since it was introduced in 2010. It consists of three durable components: a controller interface with an easy-to-read LCD screen, a sensor unit and a self-leveling sensor mounting bracket. After installation and programming, the WR2 automatically senses and measures both rain and cold temperatures to prevent unnecessary irrigation, saving water and reducing wear on irrigation system components. Finding a spot to mount the WR2 is relatively effortless, as its superior signal strength can overcome most common line-of-sight obstructions such as trees, sheds and walls. And, unlike other rain and rain/freeze sensors, the WR2 displays signal strength on both the sensor and the controller interface, making it possible for contractors to find the best mounting location without having to return to the controller.         

“By installing the WR2-48, California contractors can help their customers easily meet the new 48-hour mandate and solidify their reputations as water management experts,” Porrazzo said. “It’s a simple and affordable smart technology upgrade that makes using less water easy.”

The WR2-48 Rain/Freeze Sensor is yet another example of Rain Bird’s continued dedication to helping both contractors and their customers save time, money and water. For more information about the WR2 or any of Rain Bird’s other quality irrigation accessories, visit www.rainbird.com or call 1-800-RAINBIRD.

ABOUT RAIN BIRD CORPORATION:

Based in Azusa, Calif., Rain Bird Corporation is the world's leading manufacturer and provider of irrigation products and services. Since its beginnings in 1933, Rain Bird has offered the industry's broadest range of irrigation products for farms, golf courses, sports arenas, commercial developments and homes in more than 130 countries around the globe. Rain Bird has been awarded more than 450 patents, including the first in 1935 for the impact sprinkler. Rain Bird and The Intelligent Use of Water™ are about using water wisely. Its commitment extends beyond products to education, training and services for the industry and the community. Rain Bird maintains state-of-the-art manufacturing assembly facilities in the United States, China and Mexico.

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For More Information Contact

Lynette Von Minden
Swanson Russell 
402-437-6457
lynettev@swansonrussell.com