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.

It is in nozzle design and spray patterns that there has been the most significant advances in recent years.  Noteworthy are the specialty patterns and nozzle choices that are effective in small spaces.  Focusing on the most used sizes, the 10’, 12’ and 15’ fixed spray arcs, Toro has the lowest precipitation rate.  The Toro nozzles seem to atomize the water into generally smaller drops, while still producing a desirable ratio of large and smaller drops.  Also, at these commonly used sizes, the Toro nozzles use a lower angle trajectory than the others which helps mitigate pattern distortion from wind.
While on the subject of nozzles, an acknowledgement to Rainbird for calling out in their catalogue the specifics of nozzle radii based on the nozzle being x” above grade.

A useful feature that Toro has is what they term “X-Flow”.  The X-Flow is a shut off device built right into the riser.  If a nozzle is off the riser and the system is running, the water is shut off, eliminating water waste and other potential problems such as erosion, and possible safety issues.  From a maintenance standpoint, it makes nozzle replacement during system operation very easy.

Is it dependable (durable, rugged)? 

Hunter seems the most stout.  Body construction, and cap and wiper seal integration is well thought out to address durability upon impact, and it has the highest pressure rating.

The Toro by contrast seems to be a marvel of simplicity, which usually is a good thing.  However, I’m left with the nagging feeling that what the Toro engineers aimed at (for the sprinkler body) “what is just enough to function— and keep the cost of construction as low as possible?”  The Hunter approach seems more like, “for every aspect of this product, how can we make the best possible product?”

Easy to sustain (availability of parts, and ease of repair)? 

All of these manufacturers are widely distributed, and are typically stocked by professional irrigation supply stores.  These are simple devices, all accessed from the top—any repair required is easy, and should be balanced against replacement with like/kind, since the overall cost is minimal.

What is the carbon footprint (where is it manufactured, processes used, end of life cycle—recommended recycle method?

Hunter -- The bulk of the Pro-Spray head are manufactured in the US.  The company has no official position or guidelines for recycling the product at end of life cycle.  However, as a company they do a lot of recycling of all types, and for example do recycle products returned for warranty issues. 

Toro and Rainbird were contacted for statement(s) but have declined to respond.

Best & most appropriate use of this product. 

All are very appropriate for residential and commercial use.  There are less expensive, look - alike products aimed at the residential market, however their low price will be overshadowed by the higher cost of ownership as their flimsy construction fails prematurely and requires replacement.

Summary

All three manufacturers produce a solid spray head product line.  Each of them can be very effective, our recommendation is for the end user to choose a product line and stick with it, over time will come the experience that will enable you to get the most out of it.  As part of the purchasing decision, also check out the manufacturer web site, some are distinctly more user friendly and informative than others.  

Conclusion:  Professional grade hardware will protect property value, and use water efficiently.  Installed correctly these products will apply water relatively evenly – an irrigation essential! 

As always, if you have questions on where to buy quality hardware, or have any comments or questions, please email us for more free, practical advice about a technical subject at (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Share your experience and feedback on products or techniques in the comments section below.

 

Delivery Systems Articles • Product Reviews Articles • Posted on 06/12/2009 • Permalink

Recent Articles: