Sprinkler & Landscape Irrigation

In sprinkler irrigation, PE pipe carries water to the sprinklers, and each sprinkler on its riser or stand spreads it over the ground like rain. Impact sprinklers are common on fields and orchards, and rain guns with a long throw are used on large fields.

Sprinkler spacing, working pressure and nozzle are set by an irrigation designer from the throw radius and local wind. In landscaping, quick coupling valves let a sprinkler or hose be connected and removed without shutting the whole line.

The impact sprinkler is the most common choice for fields, orchards and landscaping and runs at ordinary network pressure. Brass sprinklers resist wear and sunlight better, while plastic ones are lighter and cheaper.

A rain gun throws water a long way and is used on large fields, forage crops and dust control; it needs more pressure and flow, so the pump and the main pipe have to be sized for it.

Sprinklers should be spaced so their wetted circles overlap; if they are too far apart, dry patches are left between them. Too little pressure gives large drops and a short throw, while too much turns the water into mist that the wind carries away.

In windy, hot hours much of the water evaporates or blows away before it reaches the ground; watering early in the morning or in the evening is more efficient. Replace worn nozzles, because they change the flow and the spray pattern.