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Hunter Hydrawise HPC vs Rachio 3

Both are Wi-Fi controllers that adjust watering to the weather. The Hunter HPC is modular, from 4 to 32 stations; Rachio 3 is a fixed-size controller.

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Hunter Hydrawise HPCRachio 3
Weather adjustmentPredictive Watering from local weather data (Hydrawise)Rain Skip and Seasonal Shift (Rachio)
Stations4 to 32, modular (Hunter)8-zone model linked here
Monthly feesSee plan details at HydrawiseNo monthly fees; some features are Premium (Rachio)
InstallPlastic wall-mount cabinet, 120 VAC plug (Hunter)30 minutes or less, no special tools (Rachio)
WaterSenseListed as EPA WaterSense approved (Hunter)Check EPA list

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Which fits your yard?

  1. Need room to grow? The HPC adds stations with plug-in modules, 4 to 32 (Hunter). The Rachio 3 linked here is the 8-zone model (Rachio).
  2. Already have a Hunter Pro-C? Hunter sells an HPC front panel (HPC-FP) that upgrades a Pro-C to Wi-Fi Hydrawise control (Hunter).
  3. Adding sensors later? Hydrawise works with Hunter’s Rain-Clik, Soil-Clik and HC flow meter (Hydrawise).
  4. Want a rebate? Most programs require a WaterSense labeled controller. Check the model on EPA’s list before you buy (EPA WaterSense).

ARC8 vs Rachio vs B-hyve → Install steps → Replace a controller →

Parts you may need

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When to call a pro

Modules, pumps, master valves or line-voltage wiring? The EPA suggests hiring an irrigation professional certified by a WaterSense labeled program (EPA WaterSense).

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Steps summarized from the linked manufacturer and EPA pages (checked 2026-10-18). If your valve or head brand differs, follow its manual.

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