California, Nevada, Florida, and Canadian municipalities are tightening watering restrictions in 2026. This contractor guide scores Hunter Hydrawise, Rachio Pro Series, and Rain Bird LNK on automatic compliance features.
Sprinkler & Lighting News
Solenoid Valve Troubleshooting: Clicks, Ohms, and Debris
Start at the Controller Confirm the station output energizes when commanded. Intermittent faults may be wiring nuts, cut common wires, or corroded connectors. Voltage and Ohms Measure AC voltage at the solenoid leads during operation. Compare coil resistance to manufacturer ranges—shorts and opens are common after lightning seasons. Mechanical Issues Debris under the diaphragm or […]
Toro RXC Series Controller Guide: Wi-Fi, Expansion, Flow Monitoring, and Oasis
A guide to the new Toro RXC Series controller lineup, including RXC6, RXC6-WIFI, RXC4-MOD, RXC-WIFI, RXC-FLOW, and Toro Oasis software.
Hydrawise Predictive Watering: Practical Tips for Accurate Schedules
Teach the Controller Your Landscape Accurate plant type, sun exposure, and sprinkler head selections change ET math. Garbage inputs produce garbage run times—even with good weather data. Weather Sources Choose a reliable station near the property. Rural sites may need a personal weather device for wind and rainfall. Flow and Overrides If you add flow […]
Rain Bird vs Hunter Rotors: Picking the Right Gear-Driven Sprinkler
Brand Basics Both brands offer contractor-grade rotors with tool-free arcs and color-coded nozzles. Availability and local support often drive the final pick. Nozzle Ecosystem Stock the nozzle sets you actually service. Carrying both brands’ rebuild kits prevents a single failed head from delaying a job. Common Failure Modes Seal wear, drive mechanism grit, and cracked […]
How to Choose an Irrigation Controller: Complete Buying Guide (2026)
Whether you are upgrading an old timer or installing a new sprinkler system, choosing the right irrigation controller can save water, reduce your bills, and keep your lawn healthy.
PS Ultra Upgrade: Faster Installs, Improved Efficiency with Factory-Installed HE Nozzles
Hunter PS Ultra Sprinkler Bodies are now available with factory-installed Pro High-Efficiency Nozzles — helping contractors install faster while improving coverage and water efficiency. Matched precipitation reduces water waste and callbacks, all in the familiar slim-line design that fits tight spaces. → Shop Hunter PS Ultra HE Sprinkler Bodies What Changed with the PS Ultra […]
MP Rotator vs Traditional Sprays: Coverage, Wind, and Efficiency
Why Rotators Behave Differently MP rotators throw larger droplets with slower application rates, cutting wind drift and runoff on tight soils. When Sprays Still Win Narrow strips, odd polygons, or very low pressure zones may fit classic sprays better until pressure issues are fixed. Converting a Zone Swap all nozzles together, adjust run times for […]
Best Smart Irrigation Controllers in 2026: Hunter, Hydrawise, Rain Bird Buying Guide
Choosing the right irrigation controller can save thousands of gallons of water per year while keeping your lawn and landscape looking its best. Whether you are upgrading an existing system or designing a new one, this guide covers everything you need to know about the best smart sprinkler controllers available in 2026. What to Look […]
Drip Irrigation for Foundation Beds: Design Rules That Prevent Failures
Separate Turf and Plant Zones Mixing rotors with drip on one valve almost always over- or under-waters something. Give foundation plantings their own station with matched precipitation. Emitter Strategy Use pressure-compensating emitters or in-line drip with documented spacing. Add extra emitters as shrubs mature instead of cranking run times. Filtration and Flushing Install a screen […]
