Rainbird tubing comes in a variety of sizes to suit different irrigation needs. The most common sizes of Rainbird tubing are 1/2″, 5/8″, 3/4″, and 1″ diameter. The size you need depends on factors like the flow rate, distance, and number of sprinkler heads or emitters you want to run off the tubing.
1/2″ Tubing
1/2″ tubing is the smallest diameter tubing that Rainbird offers. It provides a lower flow rate and is best for shorter runs with just a few sprinkler heads or dripline emitters. The maximum flow rate for 1/2″ tubing is around 5 gallons per minute (GPM).
Some key specs for 1/2″ Rainbird tubing:
- Inside diameter: 0.545 inches
- Maximum flow rate: 5 GPM
- Maximum tubing run: up to 30 feet
- Operating pressure range: 10 to 40 PSI
1/2″ tubing works well for small yards, flower beds, or landscaping areas where you just need to run a couple of sprinkler heads or dripping emitters. The small size makes it easy to install around trees, shrubs, and in tight spaces.
5/8″ Tubing
5/8″ tubing is the next step up in size from 1/2″ tubing. It allows for longer runs and more sprinkler heads, with flow rates up to around 8 GPM.
Specs for 5/8″ Rainbird tubing include:
- Inside diameter: 0.625 inches
- Maximum flow rate: 8 GPM
- Maximum tubing run: up to 50 feet
- Operating pressure range: 10 to 40 PSI
5/8″ tubing is a popular choice for small to medium-sized residential irrigation systems. It provides the flexibility to water larger areas like front and back yards. You can run 5/8″ tubing 50 feet or more and operate up to 10 sprinkler heads.
3/4″ Tubing
3/4″ is the most common size for most residential irrigation systems. It provides higher flow rates up to 13 GPM and allows for longer tubing runs.
The specs on 3/4″ Rainbird tubing are:
- Inside diameter: 0.710 inches
- Maximum flow rate: 13 GPM
- Maximum tubing run: up to 100 feet
- Operating pressure range: 10 to 40 PSI
With 3/4″ tubing you can efficiently water most sections of a typical residential yard. Runs can exceed 100 feet to reach distant zones, with capacity to operate up to 15 sprinkler heads.
1″ Tubing
1″ tubing is Rainbird’s largest diameter irrigation tubing. It’s designed for high flow rates up to 18 GPM and maximum flexibility for long runs and lots of sprinkler heads.
The specifications for 1″ Rainbird tubing are:
- Inside diameter: 0.995 inches
- Maximum flow rate: 18 GPM
- Maximum tubing run: up to 200 feet
- Operating pressure range: 10 to 40 PSI
With 1″ tubing you can efficiently operate irrigation systems for larger properties, commercial applications, and turf areas like parks and sports fields. The large diameter and flow capacity allow for very long tubing runs with dozens of sprinkler heads.
Choosing the Right Tubing Size
When deciding what size Rainbird tubing to use, the main factors to consider are:
- Flow rate – The required GPM for your system based on number of heads and their flow rates.
- Run length – The linear distance from the valve or water source to the sprinklers.
- Number of sprinkler heads – More heads require higher flow rates.
- Water source and pressure – Your available water flow and pressure impacts size choice.
It’s best to calculate your expected flow rate and run lengths, then size your tubing accordingly. Using tubing that’s too small can starve sprinklers for water, while oversizing wastes money on excess material. Most residential systems use 3/4″ or 1″ tubing for the main lines.
Tubing Wall Thickness
In addition to diameter, Rainbird irrigation tubing is available in different wall thicknesses:
- Thin-walled – For use underground only. Not UV stabilized.
- Medium-walled – For use above or below ground. Moderate UV resistance.
- Thick-walled – For above ground use. Excellent UV resistance and durability.
Thick-walled tubing is recommended for any above ground applications. It withstands weathering and UV light degradation much better than thinner tubing. Medium or thin-walled pipe can be used for underground mainline and lateral piping.
Polyethylene vs. Vinyl Tubing
Rainbird offers tubing in both polyethylene (PE) and vinyl materials. Key differences include:
- Polyethylene – More flexible but thinner wall. Lower cost.
- Vinyl – Stiffer walled. More durable and UV resistant. Higher cost.
For above ground use, vinyl tubing is preferred for its durability, UV resistance, and thicker walls. Polyethylene is suitable for underground use where flexibility helps with installation and burial. Check tubing specifications for recommended uses.
Specialty Tubing Types
Beyond standard irrigation tubing, Rainbird also offers:
- Drip irrigation tubing – Smaller diameter with pressure compensating emitters for low volume watering.
- Distribution tubing – With pre-installed outlets for connecting sprinklers or emitters.
- Multi-outlet tubing – Has molded-in outlet fittings spaced along the tubing length.
These tubing products are designed for specific types of irrigation systems like drip or micro-spray systems. The outlets and emitters are optimized for uniform flow at low pressures.
Conclusion
Rainbird provides a range of tubing sizes from 1/2″ to 1″ diameter to meet different irrigation system needs. The most common residential sizes are 5/8″, 3/4″, and 1″ tubing. Available in both polyethylene and vinyl, choose the material and wall thickness suited for your above or below ground application. With the right tubing size and type, you can create an efficient, high performing irrigation system.