Maintaining a lawn or a garden can seem to be a daunting task, especially when water pressure is low. But you don’t have to give up on your dreams of having a lush piece of land. All you need is to get the best sprinkler for low water pressure that fits your irrigation needs and budget.
There is a range of standard, impact and rotary sprinklers designed for low-pressure irrigation systems. Each type of sprinkler is designed for low water pressure, but each is suitable for different pressure levels and types of irrigation system.
When choosing a water sprinkle that suits your needs, you need to consider your budget, the area you need the sprinkler to water and how simply they can be installed. You’ll also need to make sure you have adequate water pressure for the system to work properly.
No matter what your lawn’s soil type or water requirements are, there is a water sprinkler system for you. Read on to learn more about low-pressure sprinklers before deciding which one to buy.
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How Does Water Pressure Affect The Sprinkler System?
Water pressure will affect the range, efficiency and coverage of your sprinkler system. The water pressure that comes from the main supply line dictates the operating pressure of most sprinkler systems.
Sufficient water pressure allows the heads to pop up and work properly. It also dictates the distances between the sprinkler heads. Each head will spray in even patterns and water will be used efficiently if the water pressure is at its optimal level.
In Australia, water pressure is measured in Kilopascals or kPa. For most residential sprinkler heads, the ideal operating pressure is between two hundred and five and three hundred and fifty kPa.
However, sometimes water pressure reaches up to seven hundred kPa. This is already deemed too much pressure and may lead to wasted water and skyrocketing bills. It can also result in damages to the sprinkler valves, pipes, and heads.
Can You Use A Sprinkler With Low Water Pressure?
Yes, you can use a sprinkler even with low water pressure coming from the main supply line, as long as you have the right kind of sprinkler system in place.
The standard water pressure in Australian homes is between three hundred and ten to three hundred and eighty kPa. A reading of about two hundred to two hundred and seventy-five is already considered low, especially for lawn care use.
However, water sprinklers are now designed to work within the low water pressure range. The efficiency of your watering system all boils down to using the right sprinkler model.
You may also install a boost pump to help your sprinklers perform efficiently. Boost pumps do more than just boost water pressure. It specifically regulates water pressure until it reaches an even level and only begins its work when needed. It increases the pressure in the water heads, which leads to an effective watering system for your landscaping needs.
Are Impact Sprinklers Good For Low Water Pressure?
Impact sprinklers are excellent for low-pressure water sources. This type of sprinkler is built with integrated regulation valves that control water flow.
Using impact sprinklers will still allow you to achieve healthy growth of grass and plants, even if the water pressure in your house is less than ideal. It ensures that the entire lawn is covered with consistent spraying patterns.
An impact sprinkler is an irrigation device that has a rotating arm and a small spring pin. Its movement is due to a pivoting ball bearing that lies on a threaded nut. Every time the arm strikes the pin, the device starts propelling in a circular motion. You can adjust the pin to change the pattern and distance of the spray.
If you’re thinking of installing an impact sprinkler, here are some factors you need to consider before taking the plunge:
1. Coverage and Spraying Distance
It’s important to consider the radius and spraying distance of the sprinkler to determine its overall coverage. You should also measure the total area of your garden or lawn. Make sure that the sprinkler’s water flow can be adjusted to achieve uniform irrigation.
If you have an extensive area that needs to be watered, it would be best to go for more than one impact head to ensure that your whole lawn gets a fair share of love. A sprinkler that comes with a quick-connect feature allows you to attach multiple heads in one chain.
2. Spraying Pattern
The rhythmic movement of water spraying on a field of grass is always fun to watch. But aside from its “entertainment” value, a sprinkler’s consistent spraying pattern ensures that there will be no brown patches on your lawn down the track.
A unit that has an easy-to-use diffuser screw would be a smart choice. It will allow you to adjust the water flow, spraying patterns, and spraying distance based on the needs of your lawn. In addition, choosing a sprinkler with a deflector shield helps adjust the arc of the water.
3. Water Pressure Requirements
It is crucial to check if the kPa of the sprinkler matches the kPa of the low-pressure water system of your home or place of business. This information ensures optimal coverage and sprinkler performance.
4. Construction, Design, and Material
A sprinkler made from materials that are rust and corrosion resistant such as brass, stainless steel, zinc, aluminium, or plastic would be your best bet. These materials can withstand severe weather and prolonged exposure to moisture.
It would also be a good idea to check the base of the sprinkler system. The construction and material of the base have a huge effect on its sturdiness. A unit with a wheeled base is a brilliant choice for its mobility and flexibility. You can place it in any location that will ensure equal water distribution. You are also assured that it won’t get stuck or tip over.
Tripod stands are perfect if you are maintaining a larger lawn or dealing with taller grass. The added height ensures uniform water distribution and wider coverage.
Here are some great impact sprinkler brands to suit all budgets:
- Naan Dan Jain 15 mm 423 AG brass impact sprinkler
- Toro 15 mm “bluey” plastic impact sprinkler
- Rain Bird 2045A Maxipaw Part/Full Circle
How Much Pressure Do Pop Up Sprinklers Need?
Pop up sprinklers need pressure of between two hundred and three hundred and fifty kPa for optimal operations. This water pressure range will result not only in uniform spray patterns but efficient use of water as well.
Pop-up sprinklers are a popular choice among home gardening enthusiasts mainly because they can be concealed when not in use. Since the pipework and the sprinkler heads are placed underground, you can maintain the aesthetic of your garden. Whenever the system is activated, the heads rise from the ground, then retract once the system is deactivated.
This type of sprinkler can irrigate many different types of gardens. Usually, its main purpose is to water grass, but they are also perfect for borders and flower beds. When installed properly, pop up sprinklers can spray water efficiently, thus preventing wastage of water.
Best Sprinklers For Low Water Pressure Australia
There is currently a wide range of irrigation sprinklers for sale in Australia. However, if you’re looking for one that can work with low water pressure, you might need some help. So we’ve narrowed down for you the best water sprinklers for low water pressure.
Hunter SRM Gear Drive Sprinklers
The Hunter SRM Gear Drive Sprinklers provides the benefits of a rotor and the applications of a spray. It offers the efficiency and convenience that is lacking in a spray as it works in tandem with larger rotors. It can tackle small and large areas within a single zone.
This synchronous operation requires fewer heads to do the work, resulting in a more economical water sprinkler system. It has a rack of six water-efficient nozzles that can be identified by their individual flow rates. Also, if you’re planning to go the DIY route, you would be glad to know that these nozzles can be installed or changed quickly and easily.
The Hunter SRM’s rotor has a radius adjustment feature that allows you to fine-tune the spray so that non-landscaped areas such as driveways and walks will remain dry.
Rain Bird 2045A Maxipaw Part/Full Circle
The Rain Bird Maxipaw Sprinkler provides even water distribution and exceptional close-in watering. It has an efficient and straight-through flow design that conserves energy and works well in dirty water applications. Its adjustable arm spring is perfect for low pressure and low-gallonage operations.
It has a Precision Jet tube that minimises side splash and a hooded bearing for durability. In addition, this sprinkler has five interchangeable and standard trajectory color-coded MPR nozzles.
Another positive factor for the Maxipaw is that it is easy to service and adjust. You also do not need to use any tools to change the nozzles.
K Rain 300 Series Adjustable Rotary Nozzle 6-7M
The K Rain 300 Series Rotary Sprinkler has a revolutionary multi-stream technology that aims to maximise the entire system’s efficiency. It offers watering uniformity because of its multi-trajectory rotating streams. It also features automated matched precipitation even after you’ve adjusted its radius and arc.
Just like the two other sprinklers mentioned, the K Rain model can be adjusted without you breaking a sweat. You can also remove the inlet filter for cleaning and maintenance.
Best Rotary Sprinklers For Low Water Pressure
If you’re planning on installing a sprinkler for low-pressure homes, reach for the best rotary sprinklers for low water pressure. A rotary sprinkler has one or more rounded heads that are driven into the soil using metal spikes. The heads rotate 360 degrees as it sprays water around. This type of sprinkler gets its water supply by connecting the head to a garden hose or a series of underground pipes.
Hunter PGJ Rotor Sprinkler
If you’re looking for a sprinkler that functions as a spray but provides the benefits of a rotor, then the Hunter PGJ Rotor Sprinkler is the one for you. This compact unit has a rack of water-efficient nozzles that are easy to install or replace. It also offers easy arc changes and water efficiency. The rubber cover allows it to withstand various weather and exposure to moisture.
Antelco Rotor Spray Mini Sprinklers
The Antelco Rotor Spray Mini Sprinklers are commonly used for home gardens, landscape areas, nurseries, and other horticultural applications. Its C-Frame design offers optimal distribution uniformity. It features a full flow flipper that is suspended between two bearings and a dust cover to protect the bearings.
The nozzles are colour-coded to easily identify the flow rates. The materials used are UV stabilised, making it more durable and long-lasting.
Best Pop Up Sprinklers For Low Water Pressure
If you feel that pop up sprinklers match the irrigation needs of your lawn, then you can choose from one of the following models.
Toro 570 Pop Up Sprinkler
The Toro 570 Pop Up Sprinkler features a low-pressure seal that flushes when it retracts. The zero flush seal enables more heads to be installed in the same zone since it prevents flushing on pop up. It has seven individual pop up sprinkler bodies and an array of interchangeable variable or fixed arc nozzles which offers design flexibility.
The small black cap, with a diameter of fifty millimetres, is hidden from sight, making it less prone to damage or vandalism. In addition, it’s made from durable plastic with a stainless-steel retraction spring. This model is perfect for turf areas and small gardens.
Hunter Pro-Spray Pop Up Sprinkler
The Hunter Pro-Spray Pop Up Sprinkler features a proprietary body cap design that never leaks even when they are loosened. It also has a two-piece ratchet that can easily be adjusted. This pop-up has a pull-ring flush cap to prevent debris from clogging the unit.
It is a popular choice among irrigation contractors for its high flexibility. This model’s heads are compatible not only with the Hunter nozzles but with all industry-standard female nozzles as well.
Related Questions
Why Are My Sprinklers Not Getting Enough Pressure?
If your sprinkler heads are clogged with dirt or there is a leak in your water line or in the unit itself, then your sprinklers may not get enough pressure. Make sure that the valves for backflow on your preventer device are completely open so you’ll get optimal water pressure.
How Much Pressure Does A Sprinkler Need?
Most sprinkler systems need about two hundred kPa to function efficiently. This pressure reading may be considered low, but sprinklers were designed to operate at various pressure levels since not all water sources are created equal.
Disclaimer:
This article is published for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. Always ensure you have the right qualifications and certifications to carry out DIY work and never put your safety at risk. Hills Irrigation recommends consulting a professional for all electrical and plumbing work.
Vince is Managing Director of Hills Irrigation and is supported by Lisa in an administrative capacity. Andrew, Isaac and Megan look after the day to day needs of both online and shop customers. As Project Manager, Vince is also responsible for installation projects along with his team. It is his responsibility to work closely with clients to ensure that scope of work is understood and followed.
