With so many sprinkler heads on the market, it can be tough to know which ones are right for your unique landscape. Don't worry! The experts here at Oliviers have done all the research and hard work to help you make an informed decision. For this blog post, we have broken down the different types of sprinkler heads to help homeowners understand some basic strengths and weaknesses of each.
Rotary sprinkler heads, also known as rotor sprinklers, are a popular choice for homeowners looking to efficiently water larger or irregularly shaped lawns and landscapes. Unlike traditional spray heads that emit a continuous stream of water in a fixed pattern, rotary heads utilize a rotating nozzle that distributes water in a circular or semi-circular motion. These types of sprinkler heads eliminate the risk of underwatering the designated zones within their range, ensuring a consistent and even application of water across the entire area. Depending on the specific model, rotary heads boast a coverage area of anywhere between 20 and 80 feet or more.
The slower distribution of water from rotary heads also allows for better absorption into the soil. This is particularly true of slopes or areas with less permeable soil conditions. In these types of conditions, rotary heads can go a long way in helping to reduce water waste due to runoff, promoting water conservation and healthier lawns.
When it comes to the types of heads that are classified as rotary, two primary types dominate the market: gear-driven and impact-driven. Gear-driven heads, as the name suggests, employ a gear mechanism to rotate the nozzle. This mechanism is powered by the water pressure itself, ensuring smooth and reliable operation. This is the most popular type of rotor head and has largely replaced the impact sprinkler head for smaller, residential lawns.
Impact-driven heads, on the other hand, utilize a hammer mechanism to propel the nozzle. The water pressure acts as the driving force, striking a small hammer that imparts a back-and-forth motion, causing the nozzle to rotate. These types of sprinklers are still frequently used for larger, commercial properties.
While rotary heads reign supreme for covering large landscapes, fixed sprinkler heads offer a more targeted watering solution. These heads remain stationary and emit a continuous stream of water in a pre-defined pattern. This approach makes fixed heads ideal for watering smaller lawns, gardens with specific layouts, or walkways and driveways. Due to their fixed nature, spray heads typically have a shorter watering range compared to rotary heads, usually around 15-20 feet.
Fixed heads typically deliver water in a fan pattern, square, or rectangle and allow for precise watering control, minimizing overspray and the issues that come with excess water. Rotary heads, on the other hand, rotate, distributing water in a circular motion. Though this offers even coverage over a larger area, it can lead to overspray on sidewalks or walls and cause too much moisture to be introduced to the soil.
Spray heads are the most common type of fixed sprinkler head. They feature a simple design with a fixed nozzle that produces a fan-shaped or circular spray pattern. Spray heads are so popular that people often use the terms “spray heads” and “fixed heads” interchangeably. This type of fixed sprinkler head is appreciated for the full and consistent coverage it provides small-to-medium sized landscapes.
While many spray heads offer a cost-effective solution, multi-stream fixed heads address some of their limitations, particularly when it comes to wind drift. These heads feature multiple nozzles or outlets that emit smaller water streams at a lower trajectory. The smaller streams are less susceptible to interference from the wind, meaning you will waste less water and give the desired areas of your landscape the moisture they need.
Pop-up sprinklers are the most popular choice for residential landscapes, and they can feature either fixed or rotary heads. Their retractable design minimizes the risk of damage from foot traffic or lawn mowers, ensuring longevity and safety for homeowners and their families. With customizable heights and spray patterns, pop-up heads adapt effortlessly to various landscapes and lawns of all sizes. Of course, if aesthetics are a concern, pop-up sprinkler heads are the best option because of how seamlessly they can be integrated into a landscape. The combination of visual and practical benefits makes pop-up heads a great option for your lawn.
If you are looking to improve or upgrade your lawn’s irrigation system, professional services are the way to go. Professional services like Oliviers know how to install and maintain all of the types of sprinkler systems discussed in this post. Professional expertise also gives you peace of mind that you are getting the best and most efficient type of sprinkler to suit the needs of your particular property. Call us today for more information on which sprinkler heads you should install for your Louisiana lawn!
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