Adjusting the direction of a sprinkler head is important for maintaining a healthy landscape and promoting water efficiency. Proper alignment ensures water is distributed uniformly across the intended area, preventing dry patches and overwatering. Correctly aimed sprinklers also conserve water by avoiding runoff onto pavement, sidewalks, or fences, which prevents wasted resources and potential property damage. Optimizing the spray pattern helps deliver the precise moisture needed for plant growth.
Differentiating Sprinkler Head Types
The method used to adjust a sprinkler depends on its mechanical design, which falls into two common categories. Rotary heads cover larger distances by projecting a single stream of water that slowly rotates across a defined arc. These types often require a specialized tool or key for internal adjustments. Fixed spray heads cover shorter distances and project a continuous, stationary fan or curtain of water in a predetermined pattern, such as a quarter or half circle. Adjustments to fixed heads are simpler, typically involving manual rotation or a small screw to control water flow.
Adjusting Rotary Sprinkler Heads
Rotary sprinkler heads, or rotors, require a three-part process to control the direction and distance of the rotating stream. The first step involves setting the fixed right stop, which is the point where the head rotation ends before reversing direction. To determine this point, manually rotate the head clockwise until it stops, establishing the limit of its travel in that direction.
The next adjustment controls the arc, the total degree of rotation between the stops. An adjustment key or flathead screwdriver is inserted into the designated slot on the top of the head. Turning the tool clockwise increases the arc, while turning it counter-clockwise decreases the arc. The left stop is then set by turning the entire head counter-clockwise to the desired starting position.
The final adjustment controls the radius, the distance the water stream travels from the head. This is achieved by manipulating a radius reduction screw, usually located near the nozzle opening. Turning the screw clockwise drives it into the stream, causing the water to break up and fall closer to the head, shortening the spray distance. Backing the screw out counter-clockwise allows the stream to remain intact for a longer throw. Adjustments should be made incrementally while the water is running to observe changes in real-time.
Adjusting Fixed Spray Heads
Fixed spray heads are adjusted differently because they lack the internal mechanism for rotating an arc. The primary way to change the direction of the spray is by manually turning the entire body or the nozzle housing. By gently gripping the riser or the textured ring of the nozzle, the fixed pattern can be physically repositioned to aim the water where needed. This action is typically performed when the head is in its popped-up position.
The distance the water travels, or the spray radius, is controlled by a small adjustment screw located on the top of the nozzle. This screw acts as a flow restrictor. Turning the screw clockwise drives it into the stream, disrupting the flow and shortening the spray distance. Turning the screw counter-clockwise allows the stream to reach its maximum distance. Adjusting this screw is useful for preventing overspray onto walkways or buildings.
Troubleshooting Common Adjustment Issues
After making adjustments, several common issues may arise that require further attention to ensure optimal system performance. Uneven coverage may be caused by a tilted or sunken head, which throws off the intended spray pattern. Ensuring the head is level with the surrounding soil restores uniform distribution. Low pressure, resulting in a weak spray and reduced distance, can indicate excessive radius reduction where the adjustment screw is constricting the water flow.
Clogged nozzles from dirt or debris are a frequent cause of distorted spray patterns or poor performance. Cleaning the nozzle by removing the head and rinsing out foreign material can restore the correct stream. If a pop-up head fails to fully retract, debris caught in the riser seal can be cleared by gently pulling up the stem and cleaning the area. Finally, the irrigation zone should be run to confirm head-to-head coverage, ensuring the entire area receives adequate moisture.