Nowadays, almost every home appliance or system is now a smart home system, which means it can be controlled via an app for your convenience. If you are considering purchasing the Rachio 3 or already have one to control your sprinklers from your phone, you will certainly want to know if it is waterproof. 

The Rachio 3 smart sprinkler controller is not waterproof. Because you will need to connect the device to your previous sprinkler system control unit, it may have to be installed outdoors. In order to ensure your Rachio 3 is safe from water, you need to purchase a Rachio Weatherproof Enclosure.

In this article, we will learn whether you can or even should install the Rachio 3 controller outside, how to keep it safe from inclement weather, and even how to install it outside safely. Everything you need to know about waterproofing the Rachio 3 is right here! 

Is the Rachio 3 Controller Waterproof?

The first thing you need to understand is that the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller is not waterproof. 

This handy device does have a ton of other fantastic features, though. It can control your entire sprinkler system from your phone, saving you time, energy, and even money because your sprinklers won’t run when they do not have to. 

Connecting the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller to your existing sprinkler system couldn’t be easier; however, most sprinkler control systems are outside, which can be a problem since the Rachio 3 isn’t waterproof. 

But luckily, there is a way to make it waterproof! You will need to make an additional purchase from Rachio called the Weatherproof Enclosure. 

Even if your sprinkler control center is in your garage or under an awning, moisture in the air can get into the Rachio 3 and cause problems, so getting the Weatherproof Enclosure is a safe bet no matter where it is located. 

Should You Install the Rachio 3 Outside?

You may think that installing the Rachio 3 outside isn’t a good idea because it is not waterproof; however, there is no reason why you can’t install the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller outside as long as you purchase the Weatherproof Enclosure to go over it. 

It may feel frustrating to purchase an accessory after paying the high price tag for the Rachio 3, but consumers across the board agree that the money you save in energy and water with the device covers the costs in no time. 

How to Put the Weatherproof Enclosure on the Rachio 3

Now that you understand that the Rachio 3 is not waterproof and needs the Rachio Weatherproof Enclosure in order to be connected outside, you’ll probably want to know how it works. 

Well, you are in luck, because connecting the Weatherproof Enclosure to the Rachio 3 is incredibly simple. 

All you need to do is open the enclosure and close it around the Rachio 3. It is important to make sure that it is properly closed in order to keep the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller safe from all weather. 

Another great aspect of the Weatherproof Enclosure is that you can still completely control the device with the enclosure around it as the device is controlled via the Rachio app. 

If there is a problem with the Rachio 3, you will need to remove the enclosure before opening the device; however, taking it off is just as easy as putting it on and only takes a few seconds. 

What Does the Rachio 3 Offer?

If you are still on the fence about opting for the Rachio 3, you should understand all the features the device offers. 

Here’s what the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller can do for your home:

  • Offer smart watering schedules. Controllable through the easy-to-use Rachio app. Integrates with Alexa and other smart home devices. It takes plant type, soil type, sun exposure, and rain into account to tailor the watering. Rachio 3 comes with a two-year limited warranty and customer service.Saves you time, energy, and money on your water bill.

Although it certainly does offer a lot, it is important to remember that the Rachio 3 is not waterproof, so you need to make sure you purchase the Weatherproof Enclosure to get to enjoy the rest of these features. 

The Bottom Line

So, let’s circle back to our original question: Is Rachio 3 waterproof? Hopefully, you know the answer to this one by now! 

But just in case, we should recap: The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller is not waterproof. If you want to install the device outside for convenience, or even in your garage or shed where moisture may affect the controller, you will have to make an additional purchase. 

Luckily, the Weatherproof Enclosure available from Rachio fits perfectly and protects the Rachio 3 completely from all rain and weather.