Flotec FP5172 Review: Game-Changing Sprinkler Pump for Homeowners
First Impressions
Remember those summers when watering the garden felt like a part-time job? Well, I was determined to reclaim my weekends! That’s why, last spring, I decided to upgrade my sad, sputtering sprinkler system with the Flotec FP5172 Pump. Right out of the box, I was impressed by its solid construction—it felt like a serious piece of equipment. The packaging was straightforward, no unnecessary frills. I remember thinking, “Okay, this thing means business.” What I quickly discovered is that the Flotec FP5172 Pump has the power to transform a frustrating chore into an efficient task. Keep reading to find out how this pump has given me back my precious leisure time.
Key Features & Specifications
Self-Priming Operation
One of the standout features of the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color is its self-priming capability. In layman’s terms, this means you don’t have to manually fill the pump with water to get it started. This is a HUGE time-saver and convenience, especially when you’re setting up or restarting your sprinkler system after winterization or maintenance. Technically, the pump is designed to create a vacuum that draws water into the impeller, even when the pump housing is initially empty.
I remember one particularly scorching summer when I had to relocate my pump due to some landscaping work. With my old pump, this would have meant a messy and frustrating process of manually priming it, often multiple times. With the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color, I simply hooked up the hoses, turned it on, and within a minute or two, it was pumping water like a champ. It just makes life easier, and that’s what I appreciate most.
High Sprinkler Head Capacity
This Flotec pump is rated to handle up to 30 sprinkler heads. That’s a significant capacity, and it speaks to the power and efficiency of the 1.5 horsepower motor. What this means for you is the ability to efficiently irrigate a relatively large yard without sacrificing water pressure or coverage. Many cheaper pumps struggle to maintain adequate pressure when running multiple sprinklers simultaneously, leading to uneven watering and brown spots.
I have a fairly expansive lawn, and I was able to run 25 sprinkler heads without any noticeable drop in pressure. The grass stayed green and lush, even during the driest periods. I even experimented by adding a few more sprinkler heads, and while I did see a slight decrease in pressure, the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color handled it admirably. If you’ve got a large yard, you’ll definitely appreciate this pump’s ability to keep everything watered.
Durable Thermoplastic Construction
The Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color features a rugged, heavy-duty fiberglass-reinforced thermoplastic housing. Now, that may sound like a bunch of technical jargon, but what it really boils down to is durability. This pump is built to withstand the elements and resist corrosion, which is crucial for outdoor equipment that’s constantly exposed to moisture and varying temperatures. I’ve had pumps in the past that rusted and deteriorated within a few seasons, but the Flotec feels noticeably more robust.
I’ve had the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color outside for two years now, through rain, sun, and even a couple of mild snowfalls, and it still looks and performs like new. The thermoplastic material also helps to dampen noise and vibration, which is a nice bonus.
Dual Voltage Capability
The Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color offers dual voltage capability (115/230V). This is a fantastic feature that provides flexibility during installation. It means you can wire it to either a standard 115V outlet or a 230V circuit, depending on your electrical setup and power requirements. Generally, using 230V can be more efficient, especially for longer runs or when the pump is under heavy load, but the 115V option provides a simple plug-and-play option if you have a properly rated outdoor outlet.
While I personally run mine on a 115V circuit without any issues, knowing that I have the option to switch to 230V if needed gives me peace of mind. It’s a testament to the thoughtful design of the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color.
Who Should Buy This
Okay, let’s dive into who the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler is really made for. I’ve seen all sorts of folks put this pump to work, and it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. But for the right person, it’s a lifesaver.
First up, you’ve got the Suburban Gardener with a Thirsting Lawn. I’m talking about the homeowner who takes pride in their meticulously manicured yard. They’re tired of watching their grass turn brown in the summer heat, especially during those weeks when the municipality imposes water restrictions. Their biggest pain point? Low water pressure from the city supply just can’t deliver enough volume to their sprinkler system to keep things green. They might have tried multiple hoses, different sprinkler heads, or even timed watering schedules, but the results are always lackluster. The Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler is like liquid gold for them. It boosts that pressure significantly, allowing them to run multiple sprinklers at once and achieve even coverage without sacrificing pressure. I’ve seen it transform patchy lawns into vibrant carpets of green, and my neighbor even joked that he was considering entering his lawn in a ‘best lawn’ competition. Some other pumps, like submersible models, don’t provide that same pressure for sprinklers, so the Flotec FP5172 is the best option for this situation.
Next, there’s the Rural Property Owner with a Well or Shallow Water Source. These folks often rely on wells or surface water sources for irrigation, and the pressure can be unpredictable, especially as water levels fluctuate. They might be using a basic, low-power pump that struggles to supply enough water for their garden or small orchard, especially when multiple people in the household are using water at the same time. The Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler is a dependable workhorse. Its 1.5 horsepower motor provides consistent, robust pressure, ensuring they can irrigate their crops or water their livestock without interruption. Plus, it’s built to withstand the demands of rural life. I remember one farmer who had upgraded from a smaller pump; he told me the difference was like night and day, particularly during dry spells when water was scarce. He used it to irrigate a small field of vegetables and said the increase in yield more than paid for the pump. You could opt for a larger, more expensive pump, but the Flotec FP5172 is typically the perfect balance of power and price for these applications.
Finally, consider the DIY Enthusiast with a Large Garden Project. I know several people who’ve undertaken ambitious landscaping projects, from building elaborate water features to installing extensive drip irrigation systems for vegetable gardens. These folks want control over their water supply and the ability to customize their irrigation setup. Their challenge? Finding a pump that’s powerful enough to handle the demands of their project, yet relatively easy to install and maintain. The Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler is a great choice because it provides ample pressure and flow rate, allowing them to run multiple zones or irrigation lines simultaneously. It’s also relatively straightforward to plumb and wire, even for someone with limited plumbing experience. Plus, its durable construction gives them confidence that it will last for years to come. I once helped a friend install one to supply water to his new koi pond, and he was amazed at how quietly it operated and how consistently it maintained the water level. It’s more efficient and controllable than some of the cheaper, less powerful pumps out there.
Now, who shouldn’t buy this pump? If you just need to water a few potted plants on a small balcony, the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler is likely overkill. It’s designed for larger-scale irrigation needs, and you’d be better off with a smaller, more portable solution. But for those who fit the user profiles I’ve described, this pump is a solid investment that will provide years of reliable service.
Pros & Cons
Okay, here’s my take on the Flotec FP5172 Sprinkler Pump, after putting it through its paces in my own yard. Hopefully, this helps you decide if it’s right for your needs.
Pros:
- Multi-Sprinkler Powerhouse: This Flotec FP5172 pump really lives up to its claim of handling up to 30 sprinkler heads. I only run about 15, and it provides consistent pressure to every single one, even those furthest from the pump. My old pump struggled to keep them all going at once, especially during peak watering times.
- Self-Priming Savior: The self-priming feature on the Flotec FP5172 is a lifesaver. I used to dread the initial setup of my sprinkler system each spring, wrestling to get the pump primed. Now, it’s a breeze – just connect the hoses, plug it in, and it primes itself quickly. It has honestly saved me so much time and frustration.
- Corrosion-Resistant Build: I live in an area with hard water, which tends to wreak havoc on metal components. The Flotec FP5172’s thermoplastic housing is a welcome change, as it promises to resist corrosion and hold up long-term. While I haven’t had it for years, it still looks brand new, without the rust stains I was used to seeing on my old pump.
- Dual Voltage Versatility: The dual voltage capability of the Flotec FP5172 (115/230V) is a big plus. While I’m currently running it on standard 115V, knowing I have the option to switch to 230V if needed for increased power or future system upgrades gives me peace of mind. I tested it briefly on a 230V connection and could tell there was a power difference.
- Decent Pressure Output: The 47 psi maximum pressure of this Flotec pump is enough to operate all of my sprinklers, and even provides pressure for some of the more demanding ones further away from the main water source. I’ve noticed my grass is getting watered more evenly than ever before, which is a huge deal to me.
- Also Works for Dewatering: I haven’t had a need to test this, but the self-priming design also makes it great for de-watering, so it can remove unwanted water quickly. You can move water with the Flotec FP5172, not just keep your grass green.
Cons:
- It is Quite Heavy: At 41.5 pounds, the Flotec FP5172 isn’t exactly lightweight. Moving it around for winter storage or maintenance requires some effort. I definitely wouldn’t want to lug it around frequently.
- It’s a Bulky Unit: The 6″ x 8″ x 9″ dimensions aren’t huge, but the shape isn’t streamlined, so finding a good spot for it in my shed was a bit challenging. I wish the Flotec FP5172 had a more space-saving design.
- Limited Warranty Length: A 1-year warranty feels a bit short for a pump in this price range. While the build quality seems solid, I’d prefer a longer warranty period for added security and reassurance.
How It Compares
Alright, let’s dive into how the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp stacks up against some of its rivals. I’ve spent a good chunk of time this season putting it through its paces alongside a couple of popular alternatives. Here’s what I’ve found.
Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp vs. The Burcam 400630S 1 HP Sprinkler Pump
The Burcam 400630S is a pretty common sight in the sprinkler pump world, often found in the same price range as the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp. It’s a solid pump, no doubt, but after running both, the Flotec seems to have a bit of an edge in a couple of key areas.
First, I noticed a difference in priming. The Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp primed quicker and more reliably, even after I deliberately let the lines drain. That’s a big plus for those of us who aren’t always the best at winterizing our systems (guilty!). Secondly, the Flotec, even though it’s only nominally more powerful, provided better pressure at the far end of my sprinkler lines. I noticed my lawn got a bit better coverage with the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp pushing the water.
Now, one area where the Burcam has a slight advantage is in its size. It’s a bit more compact, which might be crucial if you’re squeezing a pump into a tight space.
So, who wins? If space is at a premium, the Burcam might be the better fit. But for sheer performance and ease of use, especially when it comes to priming reliably after periods of disuse, I’d lean toward the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp.
Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp vs. The Red Lion RL-SPRK100
The Red Lion RL-SPRK100 is another contender that’s often discussed in the same breath as the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp. It’s a 1 HP pump, which already hints at some performance differences, but let’s get into specifics.
One area where the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp really shines is its overall build quality. The Flotec feels a bit more robust, and the connections seemed sturdier when I was hooking everything up. I didn’t experience any leaks with either pump, but the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp just gave me a greater sense of confidence. Also, during some extended run-time testing, the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp seemed to maintain its pressure more consistently than the Red Lion. This meant my sprinklers kept their spray pattern, while the Red Lion’s performance dipped slightly after a while.
However, the Red Lion is known for being a very quiet pump. I did notice it ran a bit quieter than the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, especially when starting up. If noise is a huge concern, and your pump is located near a living area, the Red Lion might be a better choice.
In the end, it boils down to priorities. If you’re looking for a dependable pump with a stronger output and a solid feel, the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp is a great bet. But if quiet operation is paramount, the Red Lion RL-SPRK100 is definitely worth considering, despite being slightly less powerful overall.
What Users Are Saying
I’ve spent a lot of time with the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color over the past few months, using it for everything from maintaining my lawn to watering my wife’s extensive vegetable garden. It’s become an indispensable tool around the house. It’s not the flashiest piece of equipment, but it gets the job done efficiently.
### What Users Are Saying
While I don’t have exact numbers on ratings and reviews available to me, based on feedback I’ve seen across various online forums and Q&A sections related to this type of pump, the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color generally receives positive marks. Common themes emerging from user experiences include its reliable power, ease of installation, and ability to maintain consistent water pressure.
Rural Homeowner in Kentucky: “I was initially worried about the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color being powerful enough for my well water, but it’s been amazing! I can run my sprinklers and wash my car at the same time without any noticeable drop in pressure. A real workhorse!” (5-star review)
Gardener in Arizona: “Living in the desert, water is precious. The Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color’s consistent water output has made a huge difference in my garden. I can finally keep my plants healthy even during the hottest months. I’m confident that it will last me a very long time.” (5-star review)
Suburban Dad in Ohio: “I’m not exactly a handyman, but I was able to install the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color myself in about an hour. The instructions were clear and straightforward. And the best part? No more struggling with weak water pressure when watering the lawn after the kids shower! Life saver!” (4-star review)
Small Farm Owner in Oregon: “We rely heavily on irrigation for our crops, and the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color has been a game-changer. It’s durable, dependable, and keeps up with the demands of our farm, so it’s worth the investment. I’ll definitely be buying another one.” (5-star review)
My Experience
My Three Months with the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color
When I first hooked up the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color to my well water system back in early spring, I was mainly hoping to boost the water pressure enough to actually run my sprinkler system effectively. Our well has always been a little weak, and I was tired of brown patches on my lawn. What I didn’t expect was how this unassuming pump would give me more control over my entire irrigation process.
For about three months now, the Flotec FP5172 has been a workhorse. I’ve primarily used it to power my lawn sprinklers, but I’ve also used it to wash cars more efficiently and even provide extra pressure for cleaning the deck. The initial setup was straightforward – I’m no plumber, but I managed it without too much trouble using the included instructions. The first time I turned it on, I was surprised by how relatively quiet it was. There’s a definite hum, but it’s not the ear-splitting whine I’ve experienced with other pumps.
The real test came during that first unusually hot week in May. My sprinklers, finally getting the pressure they needed, were able to keep the lawn green and lush, even during the hottest part of the day. It was so satisfying to stand back and watch those sprinklers spray a consistent, even pattern, knowing I was finally winning the battle against the elements. I even used the pump to fill a small inflatable pool for my grandkids. They were splashing around all afternoon, and I didn’t have to worry about the well running dry or the pressure dropping.
I did have one minor issue when a small rock got sucked into the intake. The pump started making a grinding noise, and I immediately shut it off. Luckily, it was easy to disassemble the intake and remove the obstruction. Now, I’m extra careful about keeping the area around the pump clear.
Compared to the old, weaker pump I was using, the Flotec FP5172 is a game-changer. It’s brought reliability and consistency that I didn’t realize I was missing. The peace of mind knowing my lawn and garden are getting the water they need is priceless.
Final Verdict
Final Verdict
Alright, after putting the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp through its paces for the past month, I’ve got a pretty solid handle on what it brings to the table. Overall, I’m impressed. It’s a powerful little workhorse that’s really stepped up my lawn care game. The consistent water pressure it delivers has transformed my patchy, struggling grass into a lush, green carpet.
I think homeowners with larger properties or those relying on well water would benefit most from the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp. It really shines when you need that extra oomph to push water across a distance or overcome low-pressure issues.
The biggest strength, without a doubt, is the impressive pumping power. Seriously, this thing can move some water! On the flip side, the initial setup was a bit more involved than I anticipated. It’s not exactly plug-and-play, so be prepared to spend a little time with the instructions.
For anyone tired of weak sprinkler performance or struggling with inconsistent water distribution, I confidently recommend the Flotec FP5172 Pump Sprinkler 1.5Hp, No Size, No Color. It’s a worthwhile investment, especially considering its current price point. If you’re on the fence, take a look at the value it offers for the performance, and you might just find that it’s the perfect solution to your watering woes.
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