Guide: Sprinkler System Components | Brand Comparisons, Features, Benefits, & Prices

 
When it comes to installing an irrigation system, there are several components that are needed to ensure proper functionality. Here are the most important components, along with some recommended brands and pricing:​

Sprinkler Heads & Nozzles: 
 The gentle guardians of the lawn. From the Rain Bird brand, we have the 1804VAN and 3500 series. The 1804VAN is perfect for small to medium-sized lawns, with a radius of up to 15 feet, while the 3500 series is better suited for larger lawns, with a radius of up to 35 feet. Both have adjustable patterns, allowing you to customize the coverage for your unique lawn. The benefits of these sprinkler heads are many - they provide uniform coverage, are easy to install and maintain, and they're made with high-quality materials to ensure longevity. The 1804VAN retails for around $10.50 each, while the 3500 series is around $19.50 each.


• Name: Rain Bird 1800 Series
• Brand: Rain Bird
• Features: Adjustable spray pattern, durable construction, and a pop-up height of 4 inches.
• Benefits: Can cover large areas, reduces water usage, and prevents water waste.
• Pricing: Starts at $10.50 per unit.

 
 
Irrigation Control Valves - 
The gatekeepers of water flow. For this, we recommend the Hunter PGV series. These valves are designed with a robust construction that can withstand harsh weather conditions and rough usage, and are compatible with a wide range of systems. The PGV valves also feature a flow control mechanism that allows for precise water management, so you can ensure that every part of your lawn gets the right amount of water. The benefits of these valves are numerous - they're easy to install and operate, are made with high-quality materials, and have a long lifespan. The Hunter PGV series valves are priced at around $29 each.

• Name: PGV Series
• Brand: Hunter
• Features: Durable construction, easy maintenance, and design that allows for quick access to the diaphragm.
• Benefits: Can handle high water pressure, prevents leaks, and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
• Pricing: Starts at $29.50 per unit.

 
Irrigation System Controller-
To manage timing and water flow, we need a controller - The conductor of the irrigation orchestra. The RainMachine Pro-16 is a smart irrigation controller that can automatically adjust watering schedules based on local weather conditions, saving you water and money. With features like voice control and remote access, this controller makes irrigation management a breeze. The benefits of the RainMachine Pro-16 are plenty - it's easy to install and set up, has a sleek and modern design, and is backed by a 2-year warranty. The RainMachine Pro-16 retails for around $280.

• Name: Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller
• Brand: Rachio
• Features: Wi-Fi connectivity, easy-to-use app, weather intelligence technology, and voice control compatibility.
• Benefits: Can save up to 50% on water bills, customizes watering schedules, and ensures healthy plants with precise watering.
• Pricing: Starts at $259.99 per unit.
 
Hunter: Hunter offers a range of smart controllers, including the HC, HPC, and Hydrawise. The HC is priced at around $199 for 6 zones, while the HPC is priced at around $299 for 12 zones. The Hydrawise offers advanced features such as flow monitoring and is priced at around $499 for 16 zones.

• Name: Hunter HC, HPC, and HydrawiseSmart Sprinkler Controller
• Brand: Hunter
• Features: Wi-Fi connectivity, easy-to-use app, weather intelligence technology, and voice control compatibility.
• Benefits: Can save up to 50% on water bills, customizes watering schedules, and ensures healthy plants with precise watering.
• Pricing: Starts at $199.99 per unit.
 

Backflow Preventer-
To ensure the safety and compliance of your irrigation system, we need backflow preventers. The protectors of your water supply. The Febco 825YA is a durable and reliable option that prevents the contamination of your water source, while also allowing for easy servicing and maintenance. The benefits of the Febco 825YA include its robust construction, ease of installation, and compatibility with a wide range of systems. The Febco 825YA is priced at around $450.

• Brand: Wilkins 720A
• Features: Non-corrosive plastic construction, top-entry design, and low-lead compliant.
• Benefits: Prevents contaminated water from flowing back into the main water supply, protects the drinking water supply • • Meets local Irrigation codes.
• Pricing: $380-$1600
 
 
Sensors (Optional) - 
Finally, we have the sensors (optional) -The eyes and ears of the irrigation system. The Hunter Solar Sync is a weather sensor that can automatically adjust irrigation schedules based on local weather conditions, saving you water and money. It's compatible with a wide range of controllers, and is easy to install and set up. The benefits of the Hunter Solar Sync are numerous - it's an eco-friendly option, saves water and money, and is backed by a 5-year warranty. The Hunter Solar Sync is priced starting at around $129


• Brand: Hunter Rain-Clik
• Features: Adjustable rainfall settings, Quick Response feature, and easy installation.
• Benefits: Prevents unnecessary watering during rainfall, saves water, and extends the life of the irrigation system.
• Pricing: $129-$180.
 
• Brand: Rachio Wireless Flow Meter:
• Features: Wireless flow meter is a great option for those looking for a comprehensive irrigation system. 
• Benefits: Measures water flow and detects leaks.
• Pricing:  Starting at around $199.
 
• Brand: Rain Bird SMRT-Y Soil Moisture Sensor
• Features: Soil Moisture Sensor is compatible with most irrigation systems and can measure soil moisture levels up to 36 inches deep.
• Benefits: By measuring the moisture level in the soil, these sensors can help you avoid overwatering or underwatering your plants. 
• Pricing:  Starting at around $179.

•• Pricing:  Starting at around $199. • Pricing:  Starting at around $199.Benefits: 
 
These irrigation system components work together in harmony to create a beautiful and sustainable landscape. From the gentle sprinkler heads to the smart irrigation controllers and weather sensors, each component has its unique features and benefits. So, whether you're a seasoned irrigation pro or just starting out, these products are sure to help you create the perfect landscape that's both beautiful and eco-friendly.