Ryobi 1 Gallon Chemical Sprayer Replacement Tank

When I first tried the Ryobi 1 Gallon Chemical Sprayer Replacement Tank, I was intrigued by its promise of convenience and versatility. Designed to work seamlessly with both 1-gallon and 2-gallon chemical sprayers, this tank offers a practical solution for those who frequently switch between different types of chemicals, such as pesticides and herbicides.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about the Ryobi replacement tank is its sturdy construction. The tank feels robust and well-made, which gives confidence that it can withstand regular use. The cap, which doubles as a mixing cup, is a thoughtful feature that enhances the overall convenience. It eliminates the need for additional measuring tools, simplifying the process of mixing chemicals. However, I did encounter some issues with the cap design. The extraneous plastic ribbing made it difficult to unscrew the cap without removing the pump. This design flaw required me to grind off the ribbing to make the tank more user-friendly.

Functionality and Performance

In terms of functionality, the tank performs admirably. It allows for the separate storage of chemicals, which is a significant advantage. This feature is particularly useful for those who need to switch between different chemicals without the risk of cross-contamination. The tank is easy to fill and mix, especially when using concentrates. The absence of manual pumping is another plus, as it reduces the physical effort required and speeds up the spraying process.

However, the tank is not without its shortcomings. One of the most notable issues is the length of the pick-up tube. Since the tank is compatible with both 1-gallon and 2-gallon sprayers, it uses the same tube length for both sizes. This results in the tube curling up inside the smaller 1-gallon tank, making it difficult to extract all the liquid. This inefficiency can be quite frustrating and wastes a significant amount of product. In my experience, a more appropriate solution would be to include different tube lengths for each tank size.

Ease of Use

The tank's ease of use is generally satisfactory. Installing the replacement tank is straightforward and doesn't require any special tools. The tank's design makes it easy to switch between different chemicals, provided you label each tank clearly to avoid any mix-ups. This is particularly important for those using chemicals that should not be mixed.

One minor inconvenience is the volume markings on the tank, which are hard to read. I found myself using a black marker to highlight the key volume levels, which is a simple yet effective workaround. Additionally, the tank's weight when filled is manageable, making it comfortable to carry around during extended spraying sessions.

Durability

Durability is a mixed bag with this tank. On one hand, the overall build quality is solid, and the tank seems capable of withstanding regular use. On the other hand, I encountered issues with the measuring cup/cap cracking after only a few uses. This not only affects the tank's durability but also its functionality, as it caused the sprayer to stop working correctly. Despite contacting Ryobi for a replacement, I did not receive a satisfactory response, which was disappointing.

Spray Quality

The spray quality is generally good, providing even coverage and reducing the amount of time needed to treat large areas. However, the sprayer doesn't cut off immediately when the trigger is released, leading to some wasted product. This issue is more pronounced during spot spraying, where precision is crucial. For larger areas, this flaw is less noticeable but still worth mentioning.

Additional Observations

One of the standout features of this tank is its ability to keep chemicals separate. This is particularly beneficial for those who use multiple types of chemicals and want to avoid the hassle of cleaning the tank thoroughly between uses. I found this feature to be extremely convenient and time-saving. However, it does require careful cleaning of the sprayer and wand to ensure thorough segregation of chemicals.

Another observation is the tank's compatibility with different sprayers. While the idea of a universal tank is appealing, the execution falls short due to the issues with the pick-up tube length. This problem could be easily resolved by including both a short and a long tube with the tank, thereby enhancing its versatility.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Ryobi 1 Gallon Chemical Sprayer Replacement Tank offers a practical solution for those who frequently switch between different chemicals. Its sturdy build, ease of use, and thoughtful features like the cap doubling as a mixing cup make it a valuable addition to any gardener's toolkit. However, the tank is not without its flaws. The design issues with the pick-up tube and the cap, as well as the durability concerns with the measuring cup, detract from its overall performance.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, but with reservations. If you are looking for a convenient way to keep your chemicals separate and are willing to make a few modifications to address the design flaws, this tank can be a valuable asset. However, if you require a flawless, hassle-free experience, you might want to consider other options or wait for Ryobi to address these issues in a future iteration.