Compare Rain Bird: pop-up sprinklers, drip hose and irrigation controllers

Rain Bird is an American irrigation specialist. In the garden the brand is known for sunken sprinklers that only rise when the water is on. On this page you compare Rain Bird sprinklers, drip hoses and irrigation controllers at the current price at the shop.

What does Rain Bird offer?

• Pop-up sprinklers and rotors such as the 3504, 5004, 5006, 5012, 8005 and the Falcon 6504, for a lawn with a fixed system.
• Drip hoses such as XFD, XFS and PCD, for borders, hedges and underground use.
• Irrigation controllers RC2 and ESP-TM2, with 4 to 12 stations to run several zones separately.

A fixed irrigation system

Rain Bird is mainly intended for a fixed installation: pipes in the ground, pop-up sprinklers per zone and a controller that switches the zones on in time. Each zone gets its own station on the controller, so the number of stations determines how many zones you can run. The RC2 and ESP-TM2 are indoor models, for example in the garage or shed. For a sprinkler, check the reach in metres and whether nozzles are included. For a simple solution without pipes, look at the separate sprinklers and timers in sprinklers and irrigation.

Sprinklers and nozzles

Rain Bird names its sprinklers after their type. A rotor such as the 5004 or Falcon 6504 turns slowly and is meant for larger areas of lawn. A sprinkler from the 1800 series needs a separate nozzle that sets the shape of the spray. A rotor often comes with a set of nozzles, so you can adjust the reach. The pop-up height, for example 10 or 30 cm, is in the title. Taller sprinklers are useful when the grass or planting is higher.

Drip hose for borders

Rain Bird drip hoses have built-in emitters at fixed intervals. A pressure-compensating hose gives roughly the same amount of water along its whole length. Some are meant to be laid underground, others go on top of the soil under the plants. The title shows the length of the roll, often 100 metres, and the diameter, usually 16 mm.

What to look for

A fixed system needs good zone planning and enough water pressure. If you connect it to the mains, fit a non-return valve or vacuum breaker and, if in doubt, ask an installer what your connection requires. Drain the system before winter so no water freezes in the pipes.

Comparing Rain Bird

The filters let you choose by type, such as sprinkler or watering system. The product page shows the specifications and price history, and a price alert tells you when a product gets cheaper. You always order directly from the shop itself. All brands are brought together at watering.