Which device allows your irrigation timer to communicate with the pump?

• A. Flow & Pressure Start
• B. Integration with irrigation controls
• C. Pump Start Relay
• D. Variable Frequency Drive

Answer: (C)

Starting the pump from an irrigation timer requires a device that acts as a switch controlled by the timer’s output. A Pump Start Relay performs this role by energizing its coil from the timer’s low-voltage signal, which then closes the relay contacts to supply power to the pump. This setup isolates the timer from the pump’s motor current and surge, protecting both and allowing the timer to coordinate pump operation with irrigation schedules. The coil is typically driven by the timer (often 24 VAC), while the pump power runs through the relay contacts.

Other options describe different concepts that don’t provide the direct interface between the timer and the pump: flow/pressure start is sensor-based start logic; integration with irrigation controls is a general capability, not a specific device; a variable frequency drive would control motor speed rather than simply start/stop the pump.