Wisconsin Sprinkler System: Auto-Drain vs. Blowout, Rain Bird vs. Heads, Contractor Checklist

Wisconsin homeowner researching install. Asks: auto-drain vs. blowout winterizing pros/cons; Rain Bird vs. Hunter head longevity; contract/warranty must-haves.

Winterizing: Blowout Strongly Preferred

Matt (Michigan-based): "Personally I don't install auto drain systems. I have to warranty my work and I'm not comfortable with a self draining system. They do work, if you install enough of them in the right places. The problem is, the way you find out you didn't install enough is when something freezes."

Head Brand Preference

• Rotors: Hunter PGP chosen—"0 problems... pop-up, rotate, and go down for many years." Rain Bird rotors "work OK."
• Sprays: Rain Bird 1800 and Hunter Pro-S "preform equally."
• Valves: Slight edge to Rain Bird DV-100—"They last forever, I think."
• Controllers: Personal preference; mid-grade for residential.

Contractor Vetting Checklist

• Price ÷ heads = average cost (avoid "too good").
• Valve/head counts consistent across bids (lowball = guessing).
• Years in business, insurance cert, references.
• Who pays for utility cuts? Completion date on contract.
• As-built plan provided?
• "Trust your gut instinct... irrigation is a long time commitment with this person."