Rain Bird WR2 wireless rain and freeze sensor for 24V irrigation controllers

Wireless rain and freeze sensor

The Rain Bird WR2 is a wireless rain and freeze sensor designed for automatic irrigation systems using 24V AC controllers. It monitors both rainfall and low temperatures and can suspend automatic irrigation when the selected thresholds are reached.

This prevents unnecessary watering during rainfall and can also stop irrigation during low-temperature conditions. The wireless connection between the outdoor sensor and controller interface eliminates the need to run a sensor cable from the garden back to the irrigation controller.

Adjustable rain shutoff

The WR2 allows you to determine how much rainfall is required before automatic irrigation is suspended. The rainfall threshold can be selected from several settings between 3 and 13 mm.

Rain Bird's Quick Shut Off function provides an additional rapid response to rainfall. It can interrupt an active irrigation cycle within approximately two minutes without waiting for the complete selected rainfall threshold to be reached.

Additional freeze protection

Unlike a rain-only sensor, the WR2-RFC also monitors outdoor temperature. The low-temperature shutoff can be set to 0.5°C, 3°C or 5°C. When the selected temperature threshold is reached, automatic irrigation is suspended.

This prevents unnecessary irrigation during very low-temperature conditions. Once environmental conditions return to the permitted range, the controller can resume normal scheduled irrigation.

Wireless range up to 213 metres

The outdoor sensor communicates wirelessly with the interface installed at the irrigation controller. Rain Bird specifies a maximum transmission distance of approximately 213.4 metres under line-of-sight conditions. Buildings, walls and other obstacles may reduce the actual range.

The controller interface displays signal strength and the outdoor sensor's remaining battery level, making it easier to find a suitable installation position and monitor the system afterwards.

Convenient settings at the controller

A major advantage of the WR2 is that sensor settings and status information are available at the controller interface. Rain and freeze thresholds can therefore be adjusted without having to access the outdoor sensor for every change.

Several irrigation modes are available, including normal programmed sensor operation, suspending irrigation for 72 hours and overriding the sensor for 72 hours.

Easy installation without sensor wiring

The outdoor sensor uses a self-levelling mounting bracket and can be installed on a suitable building surface or rain gutter. It should be positioned where natural rainfall can reach the sensor without obstruction.

Only the controller interface needs to be wired to the 24V AC irrigation controller. The outdoor sensor is battery powered, with Rain Bird specifying a battery life of four years or more under normal operating conditions.

Designed for 24V irrigation controllers

The WR2 is designed for 24V AC irrigation controllers and can be used with systems incorporating a master valve or pump-start relay. Rain Bird lists the WR2-RFC as an accessory for controller families including ESP-ME3 and RC2.

The sensor is not limited exclusively to Rain Bird controllers and can also be used with suitable 24V AC irrigation controllers from other manufacturers. For compatible 9V battery-operated controllers, a wired sensor such as the Rain Bird RSD-BEx is a more appropriate option.

Technical data

• Manufacturer: Rain Bird
• Series: WR2
• Model: WR2-RFC-868
• Product type: Wireless rain and freeze sensor
• Designed for 24V AC irrigation controllers
• International wireless version: 868 MHz
• Adjustable rainfall threshold: 3 to 13 mm
• Adjustable freeze threshold: 0.5°C, 3°C or 5°C
• Quick Shut Off function
• Can interrupt active irrigation within approximately 2 minutes during rain
• Maximum line-of-sight wireless range: approx. 213.4 m
• Two-way wireless communication
• Signal strength and battery status display
• Sensor battery life: 4 years or more under normal conditions
• Controller interface wire: approx. 76 cm
• UV-resistant construction
• 6 kV surge and lightning protection
• CE certified

Frequently asked questions about the Rain Bird WR2

What is the difference between the WR2 and a standard rain sensor?

The WR2-RFC monitors both rainfall and low temperatures. It also uses a wireless connection between the outdoor sensor and the controller interface.

Is the WR2 suitable for 24V irrigation controllers?

Yes. Rain Bird specifically designs the WR2 Series for 24V AC irrigation controllers.

Can I use the WR2 with an ESP-ME3-230V?

Yes. Rain Bird lists the WR2-RFC as an accessory for the ESP-ME3 Series. The controller's 230V specification refers to its mains input, while irrigation valves and sensor functions operate on the controller's low-voltage side.

Is the WR2 compatible with RC2 controllers?

Yes. Rain Bird lists the WR2-RFC as a compatible accessory for the RC2 controller family.

Can I use the WR2 with a 9V battery-operated controller?

The WR2 is designed for 24V AC irrigation controllers. For compatible 9V battery-operated controllers, a wired sensor such as the Rain Bird RSD-BEx is a more suitable solution.

What is the wireless range?

Rain Bird specifies a maximum transmission distance of approximately 213 metres under line-of-sight conditions. Walls, buildings and other obstacles may reduce the actual range.

At what temperature does the WR2 suspend irrigation?

Three low-temperature thresholds can be selected: 0.5°C, 3°C or 5°C.

Does the outdoor sensor require a battery?

Yes. The wireless outdoor sensor is battery powered. Rain Bird specifies a battery life of four years or more under normal operating conditions.

Does the WR2 require Wi-Fi or an app?

No. The sensor and controller interface communicate using their own wireless connection. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and a smartphone app are not required.