As an irrigation professional with over 7 years of experience installing and programming controllers on golf courses across the region, I’m often asked – what makes Hunter stand out from other irrigation controller brands? With so many options on the market, it’s a fair question.
In my experience, Hunter hits the sweet spot between an intuitive interface, smart water-saving features, and rugged durability to withstand the elements. Here’s why Hunter controllers, like the ICC2 and ACC, have become my top recommendation for golf course irrigation. Let’s read below about the “What Makes Hunter Golf Irrigation Controllers Stand Out?”
Ease of Programming
Of all the golf irrigation controllers I’ve programmed, Hunter has one of the most straightforward and logical interfaces. The LCD screen gives you clear access to all programming features using simple data entry keys and dial turning. Within minutes, I can walk first-time users through the process of setting up programs, start times, station run times, and more.
The one-touch Seasonal
Adjust smart watering feature makes it simple to quickly adjust all run times based on weather changes without having to go through each individual station. This saves superintendents and me a ton of time, especially heading into drier summer months.
Advanced Sensor Integration
Connecting rain, freeze, soil moisture and flow sensors is seamless with Hunter controllers. The ICC2 controller utilizes a SmartPort outlet to instantly override scheduled watering when connected sensors detect adequate moisture levels in the soil. This prevents overwatering after heavy rainfall or from sensor-triggered shutdowns during freezing temperatures.
I always recommend wiring Hunter’s Rain-Clik and Freeze-Clik sensors directly into the SmartPort for golf course installations. The immediacy of shutdown combined with automatic restart makes these sensors reliable water-saving tools.
Flexible Programming Options
With 7 independent programs, 4 start times per program, and support for up to 42 stations on its largest controllers, Hunter provides the flexibility I need for complex golf course irrigation programming. This becomes invaluable on courses utilizing hydraulic sequencing or with specific microclimate areas requiring their own specialized watering schedules.
The Pro-C hybrid controller combines smart controller functionality with traditional clock-based programming. For courses just transitioning to centralized control, this allows me to upgrade front-end software while minimizing disruption to existing schedules. The flexibility to tailor Hunter controllers to the needs of each course is a huge asset.
Centralized Control Options
According to hunterindustries.com, Hunter controllers pair seamlessly with Lynx central control software to enable remote access, data reporting and centralized water management across an entire property.
As both a certified Lynx dealer and Hunter installer, I routinely handle integration of the Lynx software with Hunter ACC and other networked controllers across both 9 and 18-hole golf courses. Lynx provides cloud-based access to dynamic Google Earth maps of the course with pop-up sprinkler details. Superintendents can monitor flow in real-time and receive alerts at the first sign of issues.
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The level of oversight and control Lynx-Hunter integration enables is hugely beneficial for golf course water management and sustainability.
Superior Surge Protection
Maybe it’s our lightning-prone climate, but I’ve seen countless controllers fried beyond repair after power surges and electrical storms. Hunter’s heavy-duty external metal power/grounding rod is key. Connecting properly to a grounding rod redirects electrical surges away from internal components.
While no controller is 100% surge-proof, Hunter’s robust smart controller power board and waterproof cabinet offer the best hardware protection I’ve found. During a recent storm-filled summer, my Hunter ACC units kept running despite nearby lightning strikes knocking out competitor controllers connected to the same field wiring.
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Rugged Waterproof Construction
Whether dealing with blazing desert heat, frigid winter cold, or high humidity hurricane seasons, Hunter’s waterproof construction withstands it all. I’ve specified Hunter controllers for new golf course installations from the arid Southwest to the stormy Southeast and everywhere in between with great success.
The Hunter ACC cabinet, my typical spec for golf controllers, is a completely waterproof NEMA 4X plastic enclosure. It stands up to salt corrosion, fungi growth and rust while keeping delicate electronics protected. I never have to worry about condensation, mud or grime damaging electronics or causing malfunctions during extreme weather.
Built on decades of golf course irrigation expertise, Hunter controllers combine patented water-saving technology with smart features for lower water bills and sustainable course management. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask! I’m always happy to chat Hunter controllers, sensors and centralized control for golf irrigation. I hope you like reading “What Makes Hunter Golf Irrigation Controllers Stand Out?”
Mohit Sharma is an experienced sports product reviewer with over 7 years of expertise in evaluating sports equipment and gear. He holds a degree in Sports Management and has a solid background in product analysis and consumer reviews. Mohit provides in-depth insights on WateringGolf.com, where he helps readers make informed decisions about sports products ranging from hydration solutions to training gear. His expert reviews are backed by both practical experience and a passion for enhancing athletic performance. Connect with Mohit on Instagram.
