[JMintzer]

Title says it all...

Anyone have any insight on which one is better? The reviews I've read on-line say the interface is better on the Rachio, but I'd like to hear from folks who have used them... Thanks!

[logdog]

Originally Posted by JMintzer

Title says it all...

Anyone have any insight on which one is better? The reviews I've read on-line say the interface is better on the Rachio, but I'd like to hear from folks who have used them... Thanks!

I know Rachio is a lot more expensive. I bought the B-Hyve 4 station controller at Lowes for about $60 with my military discount and very happy with it. Easy to set timers and it automatically shuts off when rain or frost is in the forecast. Has a lot of other features like smart watering that I don't use. Wish I had replaced the Hunter controller a long time ago.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

B-Hyve is very good. Especially when linked to their server with weather changes.

[mjr0773]

Both are good clocks and have good software. My understanding is Rachio is considering adding a commercial grade line to their current homeowner line so that may say something about the long term growth of the company.

[npwalters]

I have the $120 B Hyve and are very happy with it

[villager@casa-aloha.net]

I've had a Rachio for a couple of years (recommended by a neighbor) and am happy with

[laboutj]

Have the Rachio. Very easy to set up and it even connects to local weather stations. Has saved me a lot of money on irrigation water

[Ropnrose]

I installed my Rachio last January, when my Rainbird got a mind of it's own! I purchased directly from Rachio around the previous Black Friday. I like the Rachio, because it uses weather forecasts/history from local stations. When I'm not here, I can monitor my irrigation.

[Altavia]

Originally Posted by Ropnrose

I installed my Rachio last January, when my Rainbird got a mind of it's own! I purchased directly from Rachio around the previous Black Friday. I like the Rachio, because it uses weather forecasts/history from local stations. When I'm not here, I can monitor my irrigation.

Flume is another handy device that can monitor irrigation flow when away. Early detection of one broken heads will pay for it.

Flume Water | Smart Home Water Monitor | Water Leak Detector

Only issue is it will not work if the meter box fills with water as happened here during the hurricane.

[JMintzer]

Thanks for the replies/recommendations!

I've ordered a Rachio 3 (4 zone) and it should arrive tomorrow. I had a $20 Amazon coupon, so it brought the price down...

We'll see if I'm posting on Wednesday when I can't get the damn thing to work!

[laboutj]

Originally Posted by JMintzer

Thanks for the replies/recommendations!

I've ordered a Rachio 3 (4 zone) and it should arrive tomorrow. I had a $20 Amazon coupon, so it brought the price down...

We'll see if I'm posting on Wednesday when I can't get the damn thing to work!

It's super easy to hook up. Be sure to take a pic of the current wiring before disconnecting. I also do not use the Hunter rain sensor that's mounted outside, the software and weather application is so good you don't need it. The only issue you may run into is the WiFi signal in your garage could be weak.

[PJMac]

Very happy with my B-Hive. Really not sure how the phone interface could be much easier. I think the complete install, including physical install and downloading the app and setting up the programs was less than 30 minutes.

At least twice I have gone in to set a rain delay, but it had already figured it out. Possibly the best 60 bucks I have spent.

[laryb]

I wasn't sure about the wiring on my Rachio when I installed it. I called customer service and they stayed on the phone with me and walked me through it. Couldn't be more helpful, and the unit blows away the Hunter. Have had it 3-4 years now without any issues. Can't speak for the other units mentioned. Love being able to remotely turn the zones on and check the heads

[polirudb]

I purchased a Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler controller several months ago and installed it myself in less than a half hour. It has almost paid for itself in the 3 months that I've had it. I can set it to work off a schedule or control it from the app. Highly recommend it. I have a brand new unit which I may consider selling. PM me if you are interested.

[normgreg]

Had my first Rachio install 3 years ago in a rental unit, it has been a super convenience to access by internet when are tenants are in occupancy and the account can easily by transferred to the new owner. Bought the second unit for my home 2 Years ago, no issues. I especially like the feature that Rachio will notify by email what the next schedule will be, so you can let it run or cancel the run for whatever reason.