Rachio builds WiFi sprinkler controllers that automate home irrigation and is positioning its hardware as the equivalent of a Nest thermostat for watering. The new Gen 3 controller has a redesigned hardware form factor, adds 5 GHz WiFi support (in addition to 2.4 GHz), and expands compatibility with more sprinkler systems. It also debuts an upgraded Weather Intelligence system the company says delivers weather accuracy to within 36 feet of the controller. Rachio is introducing a new Flow Meter (shipping in May) that measures water flow, detects leaks, and can shut off water when a leak is detected. The company will sell 8‑zone and 16‑zone Gen 3 controllers for $249 and $299 respectively, with bundle pricing including the Flow Meter at $279/$329; pre-orders begin today and units ship in April. Financially, Rachio raised $10M in a Series B in this round and previously had raised roughly $10.5M, and the company reports cumulative unit sales in the six‑figure range. Rachio builds smart sprinkler controllers paired with cloud-based software that enables remote management of outdoor irrigation via iOS and Android devices. The app allows users to calibrate soil, vegetation, slope, sun exposure and nozzle types and to select national or personal weather stations for accurate weather data. Its software makes automated adjustments over time so customers can tune systems to their specific landscapes. Rachio’s controllers are sold through major retailers including Best Buy, Home Depot, Amazon.com and Apple stores. The company is based in Denver, Colorado. According to a regulatory filing, Rachio completed a funding raise reported on 26 November 2015. Rachio is a Denver, CO–based software and hardware company that makes an intelligent sprinkler controller and companion smartphone app to improve residential water efficiency. Its controller monitors weather conditions automatically and adapts watering to the specifics of a user's yard to deliver better results and lower costs. The company is led by CEO Chris Klein and provides control and dashboard options through its mobile app. Rachio received an investment from Amazon's Alexa Fund; the amount and terms were not disclosed. It plans to use the Alexa Skills Kit to build Alexa skills that enable customers to ask for schedule updates, list recent watering events, and initiate watering in a specific pre-set zone by voice. No revenue, user counts, or prior financing details are provided in the article.

Total raised

$17M

Funding rounds

3

Latest round

Series B

Latest activity

Mar 2018