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What are smart-flow controllers for splash pads?
Quick answer
Smart-flow controllers use motion sensors, push buttons, or schedule logic to activate splash pad features only when users are present. They cut water and energy use 30-60% versus continuous operation while maintaining the visitor experience. Pair with VFD pumps for compounding savings.
Smart-flow controllers replace the old always-on splash pad operating model with on-demand activation. Sensor types: passive infrared motion sensors detect bathers entering the pad and activate features; thermal or radar sensors filter out wildlife and false triggers; push-button activators (large arcade-style buttons) let kids start a 60-180 second feature cycle; and schedule logic adjusts active hours automatically by season and weather. Combined controllers cut water consumption 30-60% on flow-through pads and energy 20-40% on recirc pumps versus continuous operation. The visitor experience stays positive — features start within 1-2 seconds of detection. Cost: $5K-$25K retrofit including sensors, control logic, and reprogramming. Some pads use the system as an interactive feature (kids press a button to start the spray cycle), turning a sustainability measure into a marketing point. Becoming standard spec for new municipal pads.