If you’re looking to install a sprinkler system for your lawn or garden, you’ve likely come across two of the most popular brands: Hunter and Rainbird. Both brands offer a wide range of sprinkler heads and irrigation systems, but which one is better? In this article, we’ll compare Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads to help you make an informed decision.
Hunter and Rainbird are both well-known brands in the irrigation industry, with years of experience and a reputation for quality products. When it comes to sprinkler heads, both brands offer a variety of options, including pop-up and rotor heads. However, there are some differences between the two that you should be aware of before making your purchase. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at the features of Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads, including their spray range, durability, and ease of installation.
Hunter vs Rainbird Sprinkler Heads
When it comes to choosing between Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads, there are several factors to consider. Both brands have their strengths and weaknesses, and your choice will ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Spray Range
One of the most significant differences between Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads is their spray range. Hunter sprinkler heads can spray water within the range of 15-90ft, making them ideal for large and commercial lawns. Rainbird, on the other hand, has a relatively shorter spray range of 13-50ft, which is more suitable for residential gardens.
Durability
When it comes to durability, Hunter sprinkler heads are slightly more durable than Rainbird. They can handle a greater PSI, which is important when it comes to water pressure, winterization, and extreme weather conditions. Sprinkler heads sit in the ground, which experiences extreme temperatures, and Hunter sprinkler heads are better equipped to handle these conditions.
Adjustability
Both Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads offer 40°-360° arc and a pop-up height of 4 inches. However, Hunter sprinkler heads are more adjustable than Rainbird. They offer greater spray ranges, and you can adjust the angle and width of the spray. Rainbird sprinkler heads, on the other hand, have van nozzles that allow you to manually adjust the angle of the spray, but not the width.
Price
When it comes to price, Rainbird sprinkler heads are generally less expensive than Hunter sprinkler heads. However, Hunter sprinkler heads offer greater spray ranges and are more durable, making them a better long-term investment.
In conclusion, both Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads have their strengths and weaknesses. If you have a large or commercial lawn, Hunter sprinkler heads are the better choice due to their greater spray range and durability. However, if you have a smaller residential garden, Rainbird sprinkler heads are a more affordable and practical option. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and you should choose the brand that best suits your needs and preferences.
Design and Quality
When it comes to sprinkler heads, the design and quality are crucial factors to consider. Both Hunter and Rainbird offer well-built and reliable products that are designed to last.
Hunter sprinkler heads are known for their rain curtain technology, which provides a more even distribution of water. The PGP (Professional Grade Performance) series is a popular choice among homeowners and professionals alike. These sprinkler heads feature a dual screw system that allows for easy adjustment of the arc and radius. The Hunter PGJ series is another great option for smaller areas, offering a range of up to 52 feet.
Rainbird sprinkler heads also offer high-quality design and construction. Their nozzles are designed to provide a consistent and accurate spray pattern, and their valves are built to last. The Rainbird 1800 series is a popular choice among homeowners, offering adjustable spray heads and a range of up to 15 feet.
Both Hunter and Rainbird offer rain sensors that can help conserve water and save money on your water bill. These sensors detect rain and automatically shut off your sprinkler system, preventing overwatering.
When it comes to durability, both brands offer well-built products that are designed to withstand the elements. Hunter sprinkler heads feature seals that prevent debris from entering the sprinkler, while Rainbird sprinkler heads are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and equipment running over them.
Overall, both Hunter and Rainbird offer high-quality sprinkler heads that are designed to meet the needs of homeowners and professionals alike. Whether you choose Hunter or Rainbird, you can be confident that you are getting a reliable and well-designed product.
Performance and Range
When it comes to sprinkler heads, performance and range are the two most important factors to consider. Both Hunter and RainBird offer high-quality sprinkler heads that perform well and have a good range. Let’s take a closer look at how they compare.
Range
The range of a sprinkler head refers to how far it can spray water. Hunter sprinkler heads can spray water within the range of 15-90ft, making them ideal for large and commercial lawns. RainBird, on the other hand, has a relatively shorter spray range of 13-50ft, which is preferable for residential gardens. Both of these sprinkler systems offer 40°-360° arc and the pop-up height of 4 inches.
Performance
The performance of a sprinkler head is determined by several factors, including psi, pressure, and flow rate. The psi or pressure is the amount of force that the water is under when it comes out of the sprinkler head. The flow rate is the amount of water that comes out of the sprinkler head per minute.
Hunter sprinkler heads have a high psi range, starting from 30 psi and going up to 55 psi. They also have a high flow rate, making them ideal for large lawns that require a lot of water. RainBird sprinkler heads, on the other hand, have a lower psi range, starting from 20 psi and going up to 50 psi. They also have a lower flow rate, making them ideal for smaller gardens that require less water.
Rotors
Both Hunter and RainBird offer rotor sprinkler heads that are designed to cover large areas of lawn. The Hunter PGP-adj Rotor Sprinkler Head and the RainBird 5000 Rotor Sprinkler Head are two popular options. These sprinkler heads have a range of up to 50ft and can cover an area of up to 3,000 square feet.
In conclusion, when it comes to performance and range, Hunter and RainBird both offer high-quality sprinkler heads that are designed to meet the needs of different types of lawns and gardens. Whether you have a large commercial lawn or a small residential garden, there is a sprinkler head that will work for you.
Price and Warranty
When it comes to price, both Hunter and Rainbird offer affordable options for their sprinkler heads. However, the price can vary depending on the specific model and features. Generally, Hunter sprinkler heads tend to be slightly more expensive than Rainbird sprinkler heads. This is because Hunter offers a wider range of spray distances and arc settings, making them ideal for larger lawns and commercial properties.
In terms of warranty, both Hunter and Rainbird offer limited warranties for their sprinkler heads. Hunter offers a 5-year limited warranty for their plastic sprinkler heads, while Rainbird offers a 3-year limited warranty for their plastic sprinkler heads. It’s important to note that the warranty only covers defects in materials and workmanship, and does not cover damage caused by improper installation or use.
When making a decision between Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads, it’s important to consider both the price and warranty. While Hunter sprinkler heads may be slightly more expensive, they offer a wider range of features and are ideal for larger properties. On the other hand, Rainbird sprinkler heads are more affordable and offer a shorter warranty period, but are still a reliable choice for residential properties.
Here’s a quick comparison table between Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads:
| Brand | Price Range | Warranty |
|---|---|---|
| Hunter | $$-$$$ | 5-year limited warranty |
| Rainbird | $-$$ | 3-year limited warranty |
In summary, both Hunter and Rainbird offer affordable and reliable sprinkler head options with limited warranties. It’s important to consider your specific needs and budget when making a decision between the two brands.
Installation and Maintenance
When it comes to installing and maintaining your sprinkler system, both Hunter and Rainbird offer user-friendly products that are easy to install and maintain. Here are some tips to help you with the installation and maintenance process:
Installation
- Before installation, make sure to read the instruction manual carefully. This will help you understand the installation process and ensure that you are installing the sprinkler system correctly.
- When installing the sprinkler heads, make sure to use the correct screws. Hunter sprinkler heads use a hex screw, while Rainbird sprinkler heads use a Phillips head screw.
- Make sure to install the sprinkler heads at the correct height. The height will depend on the type of sprinkler head you are using and the type of grass you have.
- When installing the valve box, make sure to bury it deep enough so that it is not visible above ground. This will help protect the valve box from damage.
- When installing the pipes, make sure to use the correct size for your system. Using pipes that are too small can cause the system to lose pressure, while using pipes that are too large can cause the system to waste water.
Maintenance
- Regular maintenance is important to ensure that your sprinkler system is working properly. This includes checking for leaks, adjusting the sprinkler heads, and cleaning the sprinkler parts.
- Winterization is also important to protect your sprinkler system from freezing temperatures. This involves shutting off the water supply, draining the pipes, and blowing out any remaining water.
- When maintaining your sprinkler system, make sure to use the correct tools. This includes a control box to program the system and a screwdriver to adjust the sprinkler heads.
- If you are unsure about how to maintain your sprinkler system, consult the instruction manual or contact a professional for assistance.
Overall, both Hunter and Rainbird offer reliable and easy-to-use sprinkler systems that are suitable for residential and commercial use. By following the installation and maintenance tips above, you can ensure that your sprinkler system is working properly and efficiently.
Residential vs Commercial Lawns
When it comes to choosing between Hunter and RainBird sprinkler heads for your lawn, it’s important to consider whether you have a residential or commercial property. Both brands offer high-quality sprinkler systems, but their features and capabilities differ depending on the type of property.
For residential lawns, a RainBird sprinkler system could be a great choice. RainBird has a relatively shorter spray range of 13-50ft, which is preferable for small to medium-sized residential gardens. Additionally, RainBird sprinkler heads are known for their durability, so you can rest assured that your sprinkler system will last for years to come.
On the other hand, if you have a larger commercial property, you may want to consider a Hunter sprinkler system. Hunter is the leader in offering greater spray ranges as required in large and commercial lawns. The Hunter sprinkler heads can spray water within the range of 15-90ft, making them ideal for commercial properties. Additionally, Hunter offers a range of commercial controllers that can help you manage your water bill and ensure that your lawn is watered efficiently.
When choosing between Hunter and RainBird sprinkler heads, it’s important to consider the size of your property, your budget, and your overall goals for your lawn. If you’re not sure which brand is right for you, consider reaching out to a local sprinkler company for advice.
In terms of other brands, Toro and Phillips are also popular options for both residential and commercial properties. Toro has a reputation for producing high-quality sprinkler heads that are easy to install and maintain. Phillips, on the other hand, is known for their light commercial sprinkler systems that are ideal for small businesses and commercial properties.
In summary, when choosing between Hunter and RainBird sprinkler heads, it’s important to consider the size and type of your property, as well as your budget and overall goals for your lawn. With the right sprinkler system in place, you can ensure that your lawn stays healthy and green all year round.
Extreme Weather Conditions
When it comes to sprinkler systems, extreme weather conditions can be a challenge. However, both Hunter and Rainbird have designed their sprinkler heads to withstand harsh weather conditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Rain Sensors: Both Hunter and Rainbird offer rain sensors that can be installed with their sprinkler systems. These sensors can detect when it is raining and prevent the sprinklers from turning on, saving water and preventing over-watering. This is especially important in areas where heavy rainfall is common.
- Reliability: Both brands are known for their reliability, but it’s important to note that extreme weather conditions can increase the chance of malfunction. It’s recommended to have a professional install and maintain your sprinkler system to ensure it is functioning properly.
- Water Pressure: In extreme weather conditions, water pressure can fluctuate. Both Hunter and Rainbird offer sprinkler heads with adjustable pressure regulators to ensure that the water pressure is consistent and the sprinklers are functioning properly.
- Commercial Controllers: For larger properties, commercial controllers can be used to manage multiple zones and ensure that each zone is receiving the appropriate amount of water. Both Hunter and Rainbird offer commercial controllers that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
- Malfunction Rate: While both brands have a low malfunction rate, it’s important to note that extreme weather conditions can increase the chance of malfunction. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent malfunctions and ensure that your sprinkler system is functioning properly.
In summary, both Hunter and Rainbird offer sprinkler heads that can withstand extreme weather conditions. It’s important to use rain sensors, maintain your sprinkler system, and use adjustable pressure regulators to ensure that your system is functioning properly. If you have a larger property, consider using a commercial controller to manage multiple zones. With proper maintenance and care, your sprinkler system can withstand even the harshest weather conditions.
Pros and Cons
When it comes to choosing between Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads, there are pros and cons to consider for both brands. Here are some of the key factors to keep in mind:
Pros
- Quality and Durability: Both Hunter and Rainbird are known for producing high-quality sprinkler heads that are built to last. They are made with durable materials and are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Performance: Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads are both designed to provide excellent performance. They are efficient in their water usage and can cover large areas with ease.
- Spray Range: Hunter sprinkler heads are known for their greater spray range, making them ideal for larger lawns and commercial properties. Rainbird sprinkler heads, on the other hand, are better suited for residential gardens with smaller areas to cover.
- Customization: Both Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads offer a wide range of customization options. You can adjust the spray arc, the distance, and the flow rate to fit your specific needs.
Cons
- Eye Sore: Sprinkler heads can be an eyesore in your lawn. While they are necessary for keeping your lawn healthy and green, they can detract from the overall appearance of your yard.
- Pricing: Both Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads are priced higher than some other brands on the market. While they are worth the investment, they may not be the most cost-effective option for everyone.
- Longevity: While both Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads are built to last, they may require more maintenance than some other brands. Over time, they may need to be adjusted or replaced to ensure optimal performance.
In summary, both Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads have their pros and cons. It’s important to consider your specific needs and budget when choosing between the two. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on your unique situation and preferences.
FAQ
If you’re considering installing a sprinkler system, you may have questions about the differences between Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision:
What is the difference between Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads?
One of the main differences between Hunter and Rainbird sprinkler heads is the spray range. Hunter sprinkler heads offer a greater spray range, making them a better choice for larger lawns or commercial properties. Rainbird sprinkler heads have a shorter spray range, making them more suitable for residential gardens.
Another difference is durability. Hunter products are slightly more durable than Rainbird and can handle greater water pressure, extreme weather, and winterization. Sprinkler heads sit in the ground and experience extreme temperatures, so durability is important.
What types of spray heads do Hunter and Rainbird offer?
Both Hunter and Rainbird offer a variety of spray heads to choose from. Hunter offers pop-up spray heads, rotor heads, and specialty heads such as MP Rotators. Rainbird also offers pop-up spray heads, rotor heads, and specialty heads such as Rotary Nozzles.
What are the benefits of using Hunter sprinkler heads?
Hunter sprinkler heads offer several benefits, including:
- Greater spray range for larger lawns or commercial properties
- More durable and can handle greater water pressure, extreme weather, and winterization
- Easy to install and adjust
- Variety of spray heads to choose from, including specialty heads for specific watering needs
What are the benefits of using Rainbird sprinkler heads?
Rainbird sprinkler heads also offer several benefits, including:
- Suitable for residential gardens with a shorter spray range
- Easy to install and adjust
- Variety of spray heads to choose from, including specialty heads for specific watering needs
- Well-built control box with a lot of features
Which brand is more expensive?
The cost of a sprinkler system can vary depending on the size of your lawn and the specific products you choose. In general, Hunter products tend to be slightly more expensive than Rainbird products. However, the extra cost may be worth it for the added durability and greater spray range offered by Hunter sprinkler heads.
Which brand is better for my lawn?
The answer to this question depends on the size and specific needs of your lawn. If you have a larger lawn or commercial property, Hunter sprinkler heads may be a better choice due to their greater spray range and durability. If you have a smaller residential garden, Rainbird sprinkler heads may be more suitable due to their shorter spray range. Consider your specific needs and consult with a professional to determine which brand is best for your lawn.
Price Tracker
Hunter PGP-ADJ 3/4" Rotor Sprinkler, Precision Automatic Lawn Sprinkler Head With Adjustable Arc & Watering Distance to Prevent Overwatering, Hunter Industries
as of September 21, 2023 11:48 pm
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| Current Price | $11.61 | September 21, 2023 |
| Highest Price | $13.47 | July 24, 2023 |
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| $11.61 | September 21, 2023 |
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| $10.39 | September 16, 2023 |
Rain-bird 5000 Series Rotor Sprinkler Head - 5004 PC Model, Adjustable 40-360 Degree Part-Circle, 4 Inch Pop-Up Lawn Sprayer Irrigation System - 25 to 50 Feet Water Spray Distance (Y54007) (2 Pack), Rainbird
as of September 21, 2023 11:48 pm
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| Current Price | $26.35 | September 21, 2023 |
| Highest Price | $26.35 | June 23, 2023 |
| Lowest Price | $26.00 | July 24, 2023 |
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| $26.35 | July 27, 2023 |
| $26.00 | July 24, 2023 |
| $26.35 | June 23, 2023 |
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