Best Sprinkler Valve for Drip System: 10 Zone Valves Compared

A zone valve is a small gate on your water line. A timer sends it a 24 volt signal, a solenoid lifts a plug, and water flows to one zone until the signal stops. Drip lines work the same way, with one catch: they want clean water at low pressure, and most sprinkler valves are built for neither.

That catch sets the shortlist. The Orbit 4-in-1 Drip Valve 67790 is the one valve here that lists a filter and a pressure regulator in the same body. The Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in Anti-Siphon adds a built-in anti-siphon. The Orbit L-Series 1 in Valve 57281 names drip zones and uses a scrubber filter. The rest are standard zone valves that work with an added filter and regulator.

We compared 10 valves by type, size, solenoid and installation, using only listing details. Valve rules for backflow and wiring differ by area, so check local requirements.

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On this page

1. Compare Sprinkler Valves for Drip Systems by Type, Size and Solenoid
2. Detailed Reviews: Best Sprinkler Valve for Drip System
3. Do Not Skip the Filter and Pressure Regulator on a Drip Zone
4. Check Backflow and Mounting Height Before You Buy
5. How to Choose a Valve for a Drip System
6. Which Sprinkler Valve Should You Choose?
7. Frequently Asked Questions
8. Final Verdict

Compare Sprinkler Valves for Drip Systems by Type, Size and Solenoid

Detailed Reviews: Best Sprinkler Valve for Drip System

1. Orbit 67790 1" MPT 4-in-1 Drip Sprinkler Valve, Filter, Pressure Regulator, and Drip Tubing Adapter (Best overall valve built for drip zones)

• 30 PSIRegulator
• 120 meshFilter
• 10 GPMUp to
• 24 VACSolenoid

Best for: drip zones that need a filter and low pressure from a single assembly

Why it ranks #1: It is the only valve here that lists a filter, a pressure regulator and a drip adapter together.

Orbit lists a 24 VAC jar-top valve with a manual lever and bleed screw, a 120-mesh stainless filter with a flush port and a compact regulator that reduces pressure to 30 PSI at up to 10 GPM. A Drip-Lock adapter connects to 17mm or .700 in drip tubing.

The listing says up to four drip zones fit side by side in a standard rectangular valve box and that it works with controllers from Orbit, Hydro-Rain and other major brands. It does not say it prevents backflow, so check local rules for a separate backflow device.

Skip it if you need built-in anti-siphon; the Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in Anti-Siphon lists it.

2. Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in. Sprinkler Valve, Anti-Siphon Irrigation Valve with Flow Control (Best anti-siphon valve for a drip setup)

• 1 inPorts
• 150 PSIRated
• Built inAnti-siphon
• Cold waterOutdoor use

Best for: above-ground drip or lawn zones where you want backflow protection built in

Why it ranks #2: It lists anti-siphon, flow control and battery controller support in one valve.

Hunter lists a built-in anti-siphon so no separate backflow preventer is needed, with flow control, a glass-filled nylon body, stainless parts and a 6-bolt bonnet rated to 150 PSI. It names lawns, gardens and drip setups.

The listing says it works with 24V AC solenoids and DC-latching controllers, so it suits battery timers, and that it is for outdoor cold water use only. Backflow rules differ by area, so check yours.

Skip it if you want a below-ground valve; the Hunter PGV 1 in Valve is an in-line valve.

3. Orbit 1 in. FPT L-Series Automatic Sprinkler Valve 57281 (Best in-line valve for sprinkler or drip zones)

• 1 inFPT
• 25 VACSolenoid
• PVCBody
• 4 screwsLid

Best for: drip or sprinkler zones in a manifold or valve box

Why it ranks #3: It names drip zones, lists a scrubber filter and has four captured lid screws for servicing.

Orbit lists a PVC valve with a 25 VAC solenoid, manual actuation by twisting the solenoid and an internal scrubber filter. Four captured screws hold the lid for diaphragm servicing.

The listing says threads come in 3/4 in and 1 in FPT and that it is a direct replacement for valves in the Orbit heavy-duty preassembled manifold. It is not an anti-siphon valve.

Skip it if you want built-in backflow protection; the Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in Anti-Siphon lists it.

4. Hunter PGV Sprinkler Valve, 1 in. Irrigation Valve with Flow Control (PGV101G) (Best in-line valve with flow control)

• 1 inThreads
• 150 PSIRated
• 24 VACSolenoid
• Flow controlBuilt in

Best for: replacing or adding zone valves in a PVC system

Why it ranks #4: It lists built-in flow control, a pre-installed solenoid and a simple top swap.

Hunter lists a 1 in NPT female valve with built-in flow control, a pre-installed 24V AC solenoid and a double-beaded diaphragm. The listing says you remove four bolts to swap the valve top without cutting pipe.

It names lawn zones and a 150 PSI rating and a nylon body. It does not mention drip use, so add a filter and regulator for a drip zone.

Skip it if you want a valve that names drip; the Orbit 4-in-1 Drip Valve 67790 and Orbit L-Series 1 in Valve 57281 do.

5. Rain Bird CP100 In Line Valve, 1" (Best below-ground in-line valve from Rain Bird)

• 1 inThreads
• Below groundInstall
• Bleed screwManual
• Reverse flowDesign

Best for: valve boxes out of sight where a standard timer is used

Why it ranks #5: It is made for below-ground use and works with any standard sprinkler timer.

Rain Bird lists a residential and light commercial 1 in female threaded valve for below-ground installation, away from playful hands. It works with any standard sprinkler timer and has a manual bleed screw.

The listing says the reverse flow design reduces stress on the diaphragm. It gives no flow control, filter or drip details.

Skip it if you want flow control; the Hunter PGV 1 in Valve and Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in Anti-Siphon list it.

6. Rain Bird DASASVF100 Professional Anti-Siphon Valve, 1" (Best professional-grade 1 in anti-siphon valve)

• 1 inSize
• 6 inAbove heads
• Bleed screwManual
• Flow controlListed

Best for: above-ground zones with a standard timer and room to mount it high

Why it ranks #6: It lists anti-siphon use, flow control and a clear installation height.

Rain Bird lists a professional grade 1 in anti-siphon valve with flow control that works with any standard sprinkler timer. It is installed above ground and prevents backflow when properly installed 6 in above the highest sprinkler head.

It has a manual bleed screw, a reverse flow design and a low power encapsulated solenoid. The 6 in height rule can be hard to meet on a drip bed that sits high.

Skip it if you have a 3/4 in line; the Rain Bird DASASVF075 3/4 in Anti-Siphon is the 3/4 in size.

7. Rain Bird DASASVF075 Professional Anti-Siphon Valve, 3/4" (Best 3/4 in anti-siphon valve from Rain Bird)

• 3/4 inSize
• 6 inAbove heads
• Bleed screwManual
• Flow controlListed

Best for: smaller above-ground zones with a 3/4 in supply

Why it ranks #7: It matches the 1 in model in a smaller size, which suits a short drip zone.

The listing mirrors the 1 in model: a professional grade 3/4 in anti-siphon valve with flow control for any standard sprinkler timer, installed 6 in above the highest sprinkler head.

It operates automatically or manually with the bleed screw. A smaller port limits flow, so check your zone demand.

Skip it if you have a 1 in line; the Rain Bird DASASVF100 1 in Anti-Siphon is the 1 in size.

8. Orbit 1 in. FPT 100 Series Anti-Siphon Valve with Flow Control 57624 (Best Orbit 1 in anti-siphon valve)

• 1 inFPT
• 24 VACSolenoid
• Vacuum breakerBuilt in
• RisersAbove ground

Best for: above-ground zones on risers that work with 24 VAC controllers

Why it ranks #8: It lists an atmospheric vacuum breaker, a scrubber filter and flow control.

Orbit lists an automatic anti-siphon valve with an atmospheric vacuum breaker, above-ground installation on risers and an integrated scrubber filter. The 24 VAC solenoid is said to work with all major 24 VAC controllers.

It also lists flow control and pairing with B-hyve controllers and PVC-Lock fittings. Follow the installation height in the instructions.

Skip it if you have a 3/4 in line; the Orbit 57623 3/4 in Anti-Siphon is the 3/4 in size.

9. Orbit 57623 3/4 in FPT 100 Series Anti-Siphon Automatic Sprinkler Valve with Flow Control (Best Orbit 3/4 in anti-siphon valve)

• 3/4 inFPT
• 24 VACSolenoid
• Vacuum breakerBuilt in
• RisersAbove ground

Best for: smaller above-ground zones on risers

Why it ranks #9: It is the 3/4 in version of the Orbit anti-siphon valve with the same listed features.

This 3/4 in valve lists the same features as the 1 in Orbit: an atmospheric vacuum breaker, above-ground installation on risers, an integrated scrubber filter and a 24 VAC solenoid.

The listing says it protects irrigation and culinary water from contamination. A 3/4 in port suits smaller zones.

Skip it if you have a 1 in line; the Orbit 57624 1 in Anti-Siphon is the 1 in size.

10. Irritrol 2713APR Electric Anti-Siphon Valve with Stainless Bonnet and Flow Control, 1" (Best for a stainless bonnet)

• 1 inSize
• StainlessBonnet
• BleedInternal and external
• No assemblyListed

Best for: above-ground zones where you want a stainless bonnet

Why it ranks #10: Its listing is brief and gives few specs, so it ranks last.

Irritrol lists an electric anti-siphon valve with a stainless bonnet and flow control, an internal and external bleed for manual operation and a floating metering system. The listing says no assembly is required.

It does not list a pressure rating, filter or controller type, so read the product page.

Skip it if you want a pressure rating; the Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in Anti-Siphon lists 150 PSI.

Do Not Skip the Filter and Pressure Regulator on a Drip Zone

Only the Orbit 4-in-1 Drip Valve 67790 lists a 120-mesh filter and a 30 PSI regulator. Valves like the Hunter PGV 1 in Valve and Rain Bird CP100 1 in In-Line Valve do not mention either, so a drip zone on one needs those parts added downstream. Without them, small emitters can clog and fittings can be pushed past their rating.

Check the pressure rating of your drip tubing and emitters on their own listings, and match the valve to the zone flow you need.

Check Backflow and Mounting Height Before You Buy

Anti-siphon valves such as the Rain Bird DASASVF100 1 in Anti-Siphon and Orbit 57624 1 in Anti-Siphon sit above ground. The Rain Bird listing says to install it 6 in above the highest sprinkler head, which can be hard on a raised drip bed. In-line valves like the Rain Bird CP100 1 in In-Line Valve go below ground and usually need a separate backflow device.

The Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in Anti-Siphon lists a built-in anti-siphon, and the listing says outdoor cold water use only. Rules for backflow protection differ by area, so ask your water supplier or a licensed plumber what applies.

How to Choose a Valve for a Drip System

Type

Anti-siphon valves like the Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in Anti-Siphon and Orbit 57624 1 in Anti-Siphon mount above ground with backflow protection. In-line valves like the Orbit L-Series 1 in Valve 57281 and Hunter PGV 1 in Valve go in a valve box.

Size

A 3/4 in valve like the Rain Bird DASASVF075 3/4 in Anti-Siphon suits small zones. A 1 in valve like the Rain Bird DASASVF100 1 in Anti-Siphon handles more flow.

Controller

Most list 24 VAC solenoids. The Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in Anti-Siphon also lists DC-latching controllers for battery timers.

Included parts

Drip kits like the Orbit 4-in-1 Drip Valve 67790 include a filter and regulator. Others need them added.

Which Sprinkler Valve Should You Choose?

• If you want one assembly for a drip zone, choose the Orbit 4-in-1 Drip Valve 67790, because it lists a filter, regulator and drip adapter.
• If you want built-in anti-siphon, choose the Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in Anti-Siphon, because it lists AC and DC-latching support.
• If you want an in-line valve that names drip, choose the Orbit L-Series 1 in Valve 57281, because it has a scrubber filter.
• If you want flow control in an in-line valve, choose the Hunter PGV 1 in Valve, because it lists a 150 PSI rating.
• If you want a below-ground valve, choose the Rain Bird CP100 1 in In-Line Valve, because it is made for it.
• If you want a professional 1 in anti-siphon, choose the Rain Bird DASASVF100 1 in Anti-Siphon, because it lists flow control.
• If you have a 3/4 in line, choose the Rain Bird DASASVF075 3/4 in Anti-Siphon, because it is the smaller Rain Bird size.
• If you want an Orbit 1 in anti-siphon, choose the Orbit 57624 1 in Anti-Siphon, because it lists a vacuum breaker.
• If you want an Orbit 3/4 in anti-siphon, choose the Orbit 57623 3/4 in Anti-Siphon, because it lists the same features.
• If you want a stainless bonnet, choose the Irritrol 2713APR 1 in Anti-Siphon, because it lists one.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best sprinkler valve for a drip system?

For most drip zones, the Orbit 4-in-1 Drip Valve 67790 is the best pick here because it lists a filter, a 30 PSI regulator and a drip adapter. The Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in Anti-Siphon is the pick if you want anti-siphon built in.

Do I need a pressure regulator for drip irrigation?

Check the rating of your drip tubing and emitters. The Orbit 4-in-1 Drip Valve 67790 lists a regulator that reduces pressure to 30 PSI at up to 10 GPM. Other valves here do not list one.

What is an anti-siphon valve?

It is a valve with a built-in vacuum breaker that helps stop water from flowing backward. The Rain Bird DASASVF100 1 in Anti-Siphon listing says it prevents backflow when properly installed 6 in above the highest sprinkler head.

Can I use a sprinkler valve for drip?

Yes, with the right parts. The Orbit L-Series 1 in Valve 57281 lists drip zones, while the Hunter PGV 1 in Valve is a standard zone valve. Add a filter and regulator where the listing does not include them.

Will these work with a battery timer?

Check the solenoid type. The Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in Anti-Siphon lists support for DC-latching controllers. Most others list 24 VAC solenoids that need a wired controller.

Do I need a backflow preventer?

Rules vary by area. The Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in Anti-Siphon lists built-in anti-siphon, while in-line valves like the Rain Bird CP100 1 in In-Line Valve do not. Ask your water supplier or a licensed plumber.

Final Verdict

The Orbit 4-in-1 Drip Valve 67790 is the best sprinkler valve for a drip system in this guide. It lists a 120-mesh filter, a 30 PSI regulator and a drip adapter in one body. If you want built-in anti-siphon, choose the Hunter PGV-ASV 1 in Anti-Siphon. Before you buy, check your local backflow rules and your drip tubing pressure rating.

See the Orbit 4-in-1 Drip Valve 67790 on Amazon