Sprinkler systems bear a critical responsibility of ensuring our landscapes look lush and green. They perform a quintessential role in maintaining health and growth for our lawns and gardens. A sprinkler system’s effectiveness, however, depends a lot on the type of sprinkler head used. Understanding different types of sprinkler head and their respective functionality will ensure that one ultimately selects the best option that suits their specific irrigation needs.
The following review outlines different types of sprinkler heads, their diverse uses and benefits, and an overview of drip irrigation. The sprinkler heads discussed in this article are Fixed spray heads, Rotors, Impact sprinklers, and Bubblers.
Fixed Spray Heads
Fixed Spray Heads are generally used for smaller areas, such as residential lawns and gardens. They produce a fan-shaped pattern of water and are available in various patterns and distances ranging from 3 feet to 15 feet. Fixed Spray Heads provide water scrupulously, making them ideal for areas that need consistent watering, such as flowerbeds.
Rotors
As the name suggests, Rotor Sprinkler Heads rotate when working. These work best for medium to large areas as they can cover distances ranging from 15 to 50 feet. They are adjustable, which means that they can be customized to spray in both full and partial circles depending on the need. Their slow application rate allows the soil to absorb moisture, preventing water runoff. Due to their range and flexibility, rotors are preferable for larger residential and commercial lawn areas.
Impact Sprinklers
Popularly known for their distinctive ‘clicking’ sound, Impact Sprinklers discharge water in a circular motion based on the length of an attached arm. They can cover larger areas, making them suited for big gardens and commercial areas. They require minimal maintenance and are less clogging, which is another added advantage of these sprinkler heads.
Bubblers
Bubbler Sprinkler Heads deliver water directly to the base of the plant. They are best for irrigating individual plants or small flowerbeds. Bubblers are generally used to water trees because they can penetrate deep into the soil and provide more water at the roots.
Different types of sprinkler usually function better in specific scenarios, which means that a combination of sprinkler head types might be necessary for diverse areas of your lawn or garden.
In addition to these sprinkler heads, there also exists a concept called drip irrigation.
Drip Irrigation
Drip irrigation, also known as trickle irrigation, is an effective way of water conservation. It works by allowing water to drip slowly onto the roots of plants, either onto the soil surface or directly onto the root zone. It is hugely efficient because it reduces evaporation and runoff. Drip irrigation is best suited in areas with water scarcity or for plants that require a specific amount of water.
Understanding the different types of sprinkler heads and system like drip irrigation will guide you to make an informed decision when deciding on an irrigation system. Each sprinkler head type or system has its own pros and cons, so make sure you take your time to choose the best one for your needs.