Mix ‘n Match to Your Heart’s Content

Product Compatibility

As a distributor, we often field questions about product compatibility, whether components from different irrigation manufacturers are compatible with each other. We get the same question about low voltage lighting components as well. A contractor will ask, “I have a Hunter system”, or “I have a Rain Bird system” so can I add that other component? In most cases, the answer is “yes you can”. While manufacturers prefer that you only install their product and they put in the effort to make their own components operate seamlessly together, mixing product lines should typically not create a problem.

automatic sprinkler system watering the lawn with purple flowers and bushes — Work with different components to build your irrigation system

Industry Standards

The main reason mixing components is possible, is because in the irrigation industry – as in most other industries, there are standards that all manufacturers adhere to, such as electronic standards, or thread types and sizes. Any controller, valve, or sprinkler head will have physical limitations or specifications, but its operation and output are similar enough to make them interchangeable. An irrigation system is like another system such as HVAC or electrical. In an electrical system, if the breaker panel is made by one manufacturer, that doesn’t mean the outlets and light sockets and lamps need to be made by that same manufacturer. Industry standards provide us with a mutual basis for measurement and manufacturing. As a result of these standards, most of the irrigation components and parts are interchangeable and compatible.

Lab technicians working on tile adhesives — ASTM International is an international standards organization

The Exceptions

In irrigation, the only exceptions are found in systems where decoding is happening, such as two-wire or wireless systems where codes are being transmitted. This is the case for controllers and decoders, and certain electronic flow and rain sensors, such as SolarSync. Each manufacturer’s two-wire system has a unique communication method, which means you will need to match the manufacturer for both controller and decoder so that they speak the same language. Although you need to match sensors, controllers, and decoders, that doesn’t mean the heads and valves need to match.

The Irrigation Association Standards and Codes Committee works to ensure that irrigation, building, landscape, and other standards and codes reflect irrigation best practices.

Let’s Build it Together

What we are building is a SYSTEM. We want to create a system of the best components that provides the most longevity for your customer. You can build a system of your own; you can mix and match components to your heart’s content; you are not limited to one manufacturer – except for the controller and decoder.  You may find a superior component made by a specific manufacturer, so you can be confident about making a recommendation about it to create the best possible system for your customers.

In conclusion, you can draw up your irrigation or lighting plan, use components you already have, and list those superior components that you want to add. Then give us a call or come stop by and we will help you flesh out the rest of your needs. Happy building!

Brad Guggenbiller is a top-notch Territory Manager at our Cleveland Ohio branch. He provides expertise with many of our landscaping product lines; he designs irrigation projects and consults with contractors. Through strategic initiatives, he has improved efficiency, customer communication, and branch sales.