Sprinkler Systems...

Bob · 04-17-2006, 03:00 PM

Putting in a new one next weekend... 7500 SqFt of yard, 9 zones.

Anyone have any comments on the type of systems that are best?

Currently looking at Hunter, Rainbird, and Toro. Leaning toward hunter because I like their controller a lot...

Anyone have any comments... the good, bad, and the ugly?

Bob

bjb · 04-17-2006, 03:12 PM

If you can, I would put in a separate water meter for your irrigation system. You can get away with not paying sewage on the irrigation usage that way, as most cities charge sewage based on water usage. You will probably need a licensed plumber for the tap if you do this.

As far as the brands go, 6 of one, half dozen of the other. Each has their plusses and minuses.

Bob · 04-17-2006, 03:37 PM

Ben,

I just looked at my water bill and that's exactly how our's is billed... I'll definately bring this up to the contractor.

Thanks for the heads up!

On another note... has anybody used a "Vibratory Plow" (insert witty remark here) to lay pipe instead of trenching?

Bob

Ron Stevens · 04-17-2006, 10:54 PM

I would also make the investment in an automatic system. It sure is nice to not ever have to worry about turning it on or off.

bjb · 04-18-2006, 08:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ron Stevens

I would also make the investment in an automatic system. It sure is nice to not ever have to worry about turning it on or off.

Get a system with a battery backup, too. You don't want the system coming on at some wacky time because of a power failure a couple days ago. That was important when we lived in Florida because you could get fined for watering on the wrong days or at the wrong time. Texas doesn't seem tobe as conscious of that.

futureexpresspilot · 07-24-2006, 09:42 AM

Get the rainbird. I have one and it works great. Don't get toro though, i have heard a lot of complaints.

Bob · 07-24-2006, 07:21 PM

Yep... I ended up with the Rainbird Heads... and the Rainbird ESP Modular controler with Rain & Ice Sensors... Pretty Snazzy!

My water bill didn't really go down like I thought it would... but it is obviously better coverage with no effort on my part. I wish I'd have done this much sooner!

Bob

11-02-2006, 08:10 PM

Stay away from TORO!!!! Hunter all the way...
I had to retrofit hunter valves on my 6 zone setup replacing all the "discontunued" toro valves....
A real pain i must say....