Product FAQs
Spraying/Seeding Drones
What types of crops can ag drones spray?
Ag drones can be used for a wide range of crops, including wheat, corn, soybeans, vineyards, orchards, and specialty crops. Plus, lots of folks are using these same drones to spray noxious weeds on rangeland, hillsides or roadways. Drones are being used to spray waterways for mosquito larvae and invasive vegetation. But the list goes on! Drones are also used to clean solar panels (or spray for weeds around them), and even applying shading to greenhouses!
What are the main benefits of using spraying drones? Are they really ready to be used at large scale?
YES! HSE has been selling spraying drones since 2014 and we’re excited to say THE TIME IS NOW! The hardware is robust, reliable and incredibly productive. These spray drones solve many problems we’re plagued with right now including labor, environmental concerns, and combatting rising pesticide costs. Get the full scoop on our blog post Is Drone Spraying Worth the Hype? (Spoiler Alert: YES!)
Do I need a license to fly an agricultural spray drone?
You bet. There are two certification categories: FAA & State. The FAA is responsible for safe airspace, and your state is responsible for proper pesticide handling / applying. For the FAA, you’ll need two things: your Part 107 (think of this as your drone pilot’s license. Study and take a test), and a Part 137 (this is about being able to safely carry and apply pesticides from the air. This is the long part and is a bunch of complicated paperwork). For your state, this is usually a Pesticide Applicator’s License, or something similar - this usually consists of a study guide and taking a test.
Is it complicated to get my FAA Part 137 for spray drones?
It is government paperwork - and that can be tough for people to understand who aren’t familiar with it. Can you do it on your own? Absolutely! Can we do it for you? You bet. Here’s what you should consider:
- Is it worth your time and energy to try and figure out what papers to fill out, what safety cases might be needed, etc., and / or deal with delays if you submitted something incorrectly?
- How much is that time worth? That’s a question only you can answer.
Learn more about how we make your life easier with our FAA Guidance Package.
Do you provide training for agricultural spray drones?
Yes! We’ve been helping people buy spray drones since 2014 - we know exactly what it takes to be successful. Everything from how to optimize your operations, and how to spray the most complicated areas! Because the FAA doesn’t have an official ‘training’ for drones, no company is allowed to provide “flight training” for drones, so we provide “Product Knowledge”, which isn’t about flying, but is instead focused on how the technology works, how you build spray missions, how you charge batteries, perform maintenance and how to optimize your operations. Seems silly? We think so too, but we don’t make the rules - we just follow them (and we encourage and make it easy for you to, too!)
How long does it take to recharge a spray drone battery?
Recharge times vary by brand, battery and charging setup (including what the charger is plugged into, i.e., wall outlet or generator). The vast majority of operators are recharging their batteries in about 9-12 minutes. The ideal quantity of batteries and chargers varies a bit by the size of the model, but we generally have recommendations on the drone’s product page. Got more questions? Our spray drone experts are standing by to help you sort it out.
Are ag drones compatible with GPS and RTK systems?
Yes, all ag drones are using the latest GPS and offer optional RTK systems. Most run multiple GPS for increased accuracy and redundancy. And many models can operate with a local CORS network or their own local RTK base station.
Used & Demo Drones
Are used and demo drones fully tested and certified?
Yes, all used and demo drones undergo thorough testing and inspection to ensure they meet performance and safety standards before resale.
Do used drones come with warranties?
Most used spray drones have very short or no warranty - ask one of our experts for clarification if you are considering buying a used drone from HSE.
Can I test a demo drone before purchasing?
Yes, we offer demo opportunities for select models. Contact us to schedule a hands-on test flight and experience the drone’s capabilities firsthand, or request a virtual demo and watch it from the comfort of your couch!
Software & Apps
Is your software compatible with both iOS and Android?
The vast majority of apps for drones only work on Android or via web-browsers. If you’re used to the iOS ecosystem, it might be a little learning curve but most customers in your same situation pick it up very quickly. Although it varies by model - some drones have their own “all in one” remote controller and although they’re basically a remote with a big Android tablet built in, people don’t even notice.
Can I use the software offline?
Some features, like flight planning, may be available offline, but live data streaming and cloud-based functions require an internet connection. Check the software details for offline capabilities.
Do you offer software training?
Yes, we provide training sessions to help users navigate our software, optimize flight planning, and utilize advanced features. Contact us for available training options.