Hunter Node Controllers: 5 Powerful Solutions for Remote Irrigation Control
Last updated: August 2025 | Reading time: 8 minutes
Quick Summary: Hunter Node controllers are battery-powered, wireless irrigation controllers that provide remote zone control without trenching new wires. Perfect for garden beds, remote areas, and retrofitting existing systems with smart irrigation technology.
What are Hunter Node Controllers?
Hunter Node controllers are innovative, self-contained irrigation controllers that operate on battery power and communicate wirelessly with your main irrigation system. These compact units eliminate the need for extensive wiring while providing full irrigation control for remote zones, garden beds, or areas where traditional wiring is impractical.
Each Node controller can operate 1-2 irrigation zones independently, making them ideal for targeted watering in specific landscape areas that require different watering schedules from your main lawn irrigation system.
Why Choose Hunter Node Controllers?
Wireless Installation Flexibility
Install irrigation control anywhere without trenching new control wires from your main controller. Perfect for established landscapes where digging would damage existing plants or hardscaping.
Battery-Powered Reliability
Long-lasting lithium batteries provide years of reliable operation without electrical connections. Weather-resistant housing protects electronics in all Australian climate conditions.
Smart Integration Capability
Many Hunter Node models integrate with Hydrawise smart irrigation systems, allowing smartphone control and weather-based scheduling for remote zones.
Cost-Effective Zone Expansion
Add new irrigation zones without expensive wire runs or electrical work. Significantly reduces installation costs compared to traditional zone expansion methods.
Precise Watering Control
Independent scheduling for each Node allows customized watering for different plant types, soil conditions, and sun exposure requirements.
Professional-Grade Durability
Built to Hunter’s commercial standards with waterproof construction and reliable valve operation in harsh outdoor conditions.
Hunter System Components: Control your Node controllers remotely with Hunter WiFi sprinkler controllers for complete smart irrigation. For large area coverage, combine with Hunter rotor sprinklers. Upgrade existing spray zones with water-saving Hunter MP Rotators. Ensure reliable operation with quality Hunter irrigation valves at each zone.
Hunter Node Controller Models
Hunter Node-100
Best for: Single valve control in remote locations
- Zones: 1 zone control
- Battery Life: Up to 2 years
- Features: Manual operation, weather-resistant housing
- Ideal Use: Garden beds, remote lawn areas, drip irrigation zones
Hunter Node-200
Best for: Dual zone control without smart features
- Zones: 2 zone control
- Battery Life: Up to 18 months
- Features: Independent zone scheduling, LCD display
- Ideal Use: Separate front/back yard zones, different plant types
Hunter NODE-BT (Bluetooth)
Best for: Smartphone control without full smart system
- Zones: 1 zone control
- Battery Life: Up to 2 years
- Features: Bluetooth smartphone app control, scheduling
- Ideal Use: Tech-savvy homeowners wanting app control
Hunter Node-400 (Hydrawise Compatible)
Best for: Full smart irrigation integration
- Zones: 2 zones with smart features
- Battery Life: Up to 1 year with wireless communication
- Features: Hydrawise integration, weather intelligence, remote control
- Ideal Use: Smart irrigation systems, weather-based scheduling
Hunter Node Installation Guide
Pre-Installation Planning
Site Selection Considerations:
- Choose locations with good wireless signal (if using smart models)
- Ensure easy access for battery replacement
- Position away from direct sprinkler spray
- Consider proximity to irrigation valves
Tools and Materials Needed:
- Hunter Node controller
- Irrigation valves (if not existing)
- Wire connectors
- Mounting hardware
- Basic hand tools
- Waterproof wire nuts
Step-by-Step Installation
- Select Installation Location: Mount Node controller in accessible location near irrigation valves, protected from direct water spray
- Install Irrigation Valves: If adding new zones, install appropriate irrigation valves according to manufacturer specifications
- Connect Valve Wires: Connect valve solenoid wires to Node controller terminals using waterproof connections
- Insert Batteries: Install lithium batteries according to polarity markings (typically 4 AA lithium batteries)
- Program Basic Schedule: Set initial watering schedule using controller interface or smartphone app
- Test Operation: Run test cycles to verify proper valve operation and water distribution
- Set Up Smart Features: For Hydrawise-compatible models, connect to your wireless network and configure smart scheduling
Installation Tip: Use lithium batteries for longest life and best cold-weather performance. Alkaline batteries may reduce operating life significantly in Australian conditions.
Programming Hunter Node Controllers
Basic Scheduling Setup
Manual Models (Node-100, Node-200):
- Set current time and date
- Program start times for each watering cycle
- Adjust run times based on plant water requirements
- Set days of operation (daily, every other day, specific days)
Smart Models (Node-BT, Node-400):
- Download Hunter Node app or Hydrawise app
- Connect controller to smartphone via Bluetooth or WiFi
- Configure smart scheduling based on plant types
- Enable weather-based adjustments and rain skip features
Advanced Programming Features
Seasonal Adjustments: Program different watering schedules for wet and dry seasons, automatically adjusting for Australian climate variations.
Multiple Start Times: Set multiple daily start times for heavy clay soils or slopes requiring cycle-and-soak watering techniques.
Zone-Specific Settings: Configure different watering durations and frequencies for each zone based on plant water requirements and soil types.
Node Controller Maintenance
Battery Management
Battery Life Monitoring:
- Check battery status monthly on LCD display
- Replace batteries when low-battery indicator appears
- Use only lithium batteries for optimal performance
Seasonal Battery Checks:
- Test battery voltage before peak watering seasons
- Replace batteries proactively every 1-2 years
- Keep spare batteries for emergency replacements
Routine Maintenance Tasks
Monthly Inspections:
- Verify proper controller operation during watering cycles
- Check for debris blocking controller vents
- Ensure mounting remains secure and weatherproof
Seasonal Maintenance:
- Clean controller housing with mild soap and water
- Inspect wire connections for corrosion or damage
- Update programming for seasonal watering requirements
Annual Service:
- Replace batteries regardless of remaining life
- Perform complete system test of all connected zones
- Update firmware on smart models if available
Troubleshooting Node Controllers
Controller Not Operating
Possible Causes: Dead batteries, loose wire connections, faulty programming Solutions: Replace batteries, check wire connections, verify programming settings
Inconsistent Watering Times
Possible Causes: Low battery power, incorrect time settings, programming conflicts Solutions: Replace batteries, reset clock, review and simplify programming
Smart Features Not Working
Possible Causes: Weak wireless signal, network connectivity issues, app problems Solutions: Improve signal strength, reset network connection, update mobile app
Valves Not Activating
Possible Causes: Valve wiring issues, solenoid problems, low battery power Solutions: Check valve wiring, test solenoid operation, replace controller batteries
Node vs Traditional Controller Comparison
| Feature | Hunter Node Controllers | Traditional Wired Controllers |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Complexity | Simple, no wire trenching | Complex wiring required |
| Installation Cost | Low to moderate | High (includes wiring costs) |
| Power Source | Battery operated | AC electrical connection |
| Wireless Capability | Yes (smart models) | Requires additional hardware |
| Zone Capacity | 1-2 zones per unit | 6-20+ zones per unit |
| Best Use | Remote areas, retrofits | New construction, large systems |
| Maintenance | Battery replacement | Minimal ongoing maintenance |
| Smart Integration | Available on select models | Varies by model |
When to Use Hunter Node Controllers
Perfect Applications
Garden Bed Irrigation: Control separate watering schedules for flower beds, vegetable gardens, or specialty plant areas without running control wires.
Remote Lawn Areas: Irrigate front yards, parking strips, or separated lawn areas that would require expensive wire runs from main controllers.
System Retrofits: Add smart irrigation control to existing systems without rewiring or upgrading main controllers.
Rental Properties: Provide irrigation control without permanent electrical modifications to rental properties or temporary installations.
Drip Irrigation Zones: Control drip irrigation systems with different watering requirements from main spray or rotor zones.
Situations to Consider Alternatives
Large Zone Count: For systems requiring 6+ zones, traditional controllers may be more cost-effective than multiple Node units.
Permanent New Construction: When installing new irrigation systems, wired controllers often provide better long-term value.
High-Frequency Watering: Applications requiring multiple daily cycles may drain batteries faster than practical.
Smart Integration with Hydrawise
Hydrawise-Compatible Node Benefits
Weather Intelligence: Automatically skip watering based on local weather conditions, rainfall, and evapotranspiration data.
Remote Monitoring: Check system status, battery levels, and watering history from anywhere using smartphone app.
Seasonal Adjustments: Automatically adjust watering schedules based on seasonal weather patterns and plant requirements.
Water Usage Tracking: Monitor water consumption for each Node-controlled zone to optimize efficiency and identify issues.
Setting Up Smart Features
- Download Hydrawise App: Install the Hunter Hydrawise app on your smartphone or tablet
- Create Account: Set up your Hydrawise account and location settings
- Add Node Controller: Follow app instructions to add your Node controller to the system
- Configure Zones: Set up each zone with plant types, soil conditions, and sun exposure
- Enable Smart Scheduling: Activate weather-based scheduling and automatic adjustments
Expand Your Irrigation Control Today
Add flexible, wireless irrigation control to any area of your landscape with Hunter Node controllers. Perfect for garden beds, remote areas, and smart irrigation upgrades.
Shop Hunter Node Controllers
Expert advice and installation support available across Australia
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Hunter Node controller batteries last?
Battery life varies by model and usage, typically lasting 1-2 years with lithium batteries. Smart models with wireless communication may use batteries faster than basic models.
Can I use rechargeable batteries in Node controllers?
Hunter recommends lithium batteries for best performance and longest life. Rechargeable batteries may provide shorter operating time and reduced cold-weather performance.
What’s the wireless range for smart Node controllers?
Wireless range depends on obstacles and interference but typically reaches 100-300 feet from your home WiFi router. Consider WiFi signal strength when planning installation locations.
Can I control multiple Node controllers with one app?
Yes, the Hydrawise app can control unlimited Node controllers and other Hunter smart irrigation devices from a single account interface.
Do Node controllers work during power outages?
Yes, Node controllers operate independently on battery power and continue normal operation during electrical outages affecting your home.
Can I expand my existing irrigation system with Node controllers?
Absolutely! Node controllers are perfect for adding zones to existing systems without rewiring or upgrading your main irrigation controller.
Are Node controllers suitable for commercial applications?
While Node controllers work well for small commercial applications, larger commercial systems typically benefit from traditional wired controllers for better reliability and lower maintenance.
About Hunter Irrigation Australia: We’re Australia’s leading supplier of Hunter irrigation products, offering professional installation, expert advice, and ongoing support for residential and commercial irrigation systems. Contact us for personalized system design and product recommendations.
