Rick--I can't do without these things, but recently I've noticed a big jump in price for cheaper stuff. Lowe's used to sell "high volume" valves around here. The hole in the middle was a lot bigger. I guess its all about water conservation, but I don't have the time to stand there all day either! Recently I saw a video on Dramm water products. It was really great. They sell hose end attachments that are NOT cheap but last forever. I e-mailed them and they said they sell them at Ace Hardware, although, not around here--but I can buy them directly from the Dramm website. Personally, I'm tired of buying new cheap plastic ones every couple of years---may consider buying these high dollar ones. They've got the art of watering plants down to a science................