Podcast Episode Details

#182 - Approachable 2-Wire with Rain Bird's Steve Barendt

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YouTube Short: 

https://youtube.com/shorts/flpTuNN7vqY

  Summary

In this episode of the Sprinkler Nerd Show, host Andy Humphrey sits down with Steve Barendt from Rain Bird to explore the company’s new ESP 2-Wire Controller—a product that’s making 2-wire irrigation systems significantly more approachable for contractors who may have previously avoided them due to complexity.

 

The Origin of the Conversation

Andy first encountered Steve at the IA Show, where Steve delivered an impromptu 2-minute elevator pitch on the new controller. That pitch sparked Andy’s interest in Rain Bird’s new approach to two-wire systems, leading to this deeper dive discussion.

Steve’s Background

Steve brings a decade of experience at Rain Bird, including seven years on the sales team working directly with contractors in the Austin, Texas area. His background in the field informs his work as a product manager, enabling him to better understand real-world customer needs and challenges.

Why "Approachable" Matters

Historically, two-wire systems have been considered complex, especially around wiring specifications, connector types, and troubleshooting. Rain Bird’s ESP Two-Wire Controller aims to lower the barrier to entry, making it easier for contractors—even those new to two-wire installations—to adopt the technology.

The term "approachable two-wire" is intentional. Steve explains that Rain Bird designed this controller to work with standard irrigation wire and connectors, rather than requiring specialized components. As long as the wire is direct burial irrigation wire (down to 18 gauge) and connectors are rated for 600 volts, users can leverage what’s already on their trucks—reducing the learning curve and installation costs.

A Big Shift: De-Energized Two-Wire Path

A key innovation is that the two-wire path is not constantly energized, as it is in traditional two-wire systems. Instead, it’s only powered when actively running a station or performing diagnostics. This reduces heat at the connectors and decreases corrosion risks, allowing the use of standard connectors and simplifying troubleshooting.

Positioning: Who’s It For?

The ESP Two-Wire Controller isn’t designed to replace all two-wire systems. Instead, it’s aimed at light commercial and large residential projects with about 12 to 30 stations—an area where contractors often debate between traditional wiring and larger two-wire systems.

Key highlights:

• 50-station capacity (though ideal use is around 12–30 stations)

• Cost break-even point starts around 12 stations, lower than the 30+ typical for traditional two-wire setups

• Two solenoids can operate simultaneously

• Compatible with a standard flow sensor (hardwired)

By offering a lower break-even point and simpler installation, this controller fills a gap between traditional modular controllers like the ESP ME3 and higher-end commercial platforms like LX IVM.

Troubleshooting Tools and Diagnostics

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Published on 2 months, 3 weeks ago