Compare and Contrast these 4” Popups: Hunter Pro Series, Rainbird 1804, and Toro 570Z

Easy to install and setup? 

No significant difference between the three.

Perform the core function?  Reliably pop-up, seal and retract.  Apply water uniformly.

Rainbird seals at 8psi, the best of the group.  The wiper seals on the Rainbird 1800 series have an established track record.  The Hunter wiper seal construction inspires confidence and performs well.  They all flush along the riser on the down stroke.

We are performing a series of catch can tests in a simple square spacing scenario.  In these tests, the spacing, pressure and wind (none) are the same for all.  The tests are performed at 30psi.  Note:  These are 10’ square spacing tests, only.  (Square spacing is inherently “inefficient” within the “square” – the tradeoff for protecting the edge from overspray.  View our short “Pressure & Spacing article for more detail.)  We caution against putting to much emphasis on this one series of tests – it is not intended to, nor would it adequately declare a “winner” among these three products.

Further testing is in-progress.

Easy to use (flexible as well)? 

Very similar, Toro has easiest ratcheting riser.  The key water conservation features in a spray head are pressure regulation, check valves and the nozzles themselves.  All of the manufacturers offer a dependable and effective in-stem pressure regulator, designed to keep the operating pressure at 30 psi, regardless of inlet pressures higher than 30psi.  (The typical range is 30 – 70 psi).  Of the in-head check valves, Rainbirds’ is rated the highest at holding 14’ of head.  Rainbird has a good track record with this device, it is simple, effective and reliable.

Delivery Systems Articles • Product Reviews Articles • Posted on 06/12/2009   •  (5) Comments • Permalink

Toro ECx Automatic Sprinkler System Timer

For a relatively inexpensive piece of gear, the Toro ECx has a lot to offer. These are the six areas we feel are important to understand for any piece of equipment:

Product Evaluation Criteria:  Six categories (the Essentials)

1. Easy to install and setup?
2. Perform the core function?
3. Easy to use (flexible as well)?
4. Is it dependable (durable, rugged)?
   
5. Easy to sustain (availability of parts, and ease of repair)?  And, what is the carbon footprint (where is it manufactured, processes used, end of life cycle—recycle method?
6. Best & most appropriate use of this product

Delivery Systems Articles • Product Reviews Articles • Posted on 02/22/2009   •  (2) Comments • Permalink