A beautiful, lush lawn can be a highlight of your landscape design. But, it can be a challenge to achieve healthy grass that grows as it should. According to the EPA, the average family in America uses 320 gallons of water each day Trusted Source Outdoor Water Use in the United States - EPA The average American family uses 320 gallons of water per day, about 30 percent of which is devoted to outdoor uses. More than half of that outdoor water is used for watering lawns and gardens. Nationwide, landscape irrigation is estimated to account for nearly one-third of all residential water use, totaling nearly 9 billion gallons per day. 19january2017snapshot.epa.gov , and approximately 30% of this figure is for outdoor use.
However, you can ensure your lawn is properly watered, efficiently with a sprinkler system. Many homeowners install sprinklers systems, but it is crucial that you know how to adjust sprinkler heads to ensure proper coverage.
Here we’ll explore the importance of your sprinkler heads and how you can adjust the various types of sprinkler heads. So, you can be sure that your lawn is getting proper coverage without needing to call in the professionals.
A sprinkler system allows you to have more control over how and when your lawn is watered. However, it is important that you choose the right system for your yard and the sprinkler heads are adjusted correctly. The best sprinkler for large areas will use too much water and may overwater plants and grass in a small yard. But, the reverse can also be true; if your sprinkler system is too small, it may not deliver sufficient water.
All sprinkler systems operate on a similar principle. There is a network of pipes that are buried under ground, with sprinkler heads strategically placed in various zones. These sprinkler heads work on a pressurized system, so when water is going through the pipe, it pushes up and out of the sprinkler head.
Sprinkler heads are typically raised, staying above ground, so they are not blocked by foliage. But, there are other types of heads that pop up to keep them out of the way during lawn maintenance.
How and when your sprinklers spray water is controlled by an electronic system. This tells the valves when they should open or close. It is also possible to add a rain sensor that detects rain and ensures the system does not come on after showers, so your lawn is not overwatered.
Sprinkler heads will need to be adjusted periodically to suit the needs of your lawn. Your sprinkler heads are installed in various zones across your yard to provide complete coverage. However, the design for this coverage may not be perfect. After your system is installed, you may need to adjust the sprinkler heads to ensure the spray pattern, arc and coverage meets the needs of your yard.
The watering requirements of your yard will vary according to a number of factors. For example, areas of your lawn that receive eight hours of direct sunlight each day will need far more water than areas in full or partial shade. You’ll also need to consider the type of soil, drainage and grass in your yard.
So, if you notice that particular sections of your yard have started to turn brown or conversely become a little waterlogged, you will need to adjust your sprinkler heads. This will allow you to get the appropriate amount of water in the different areas of your yard.
If you have them, it is crucial that you know how to adjust pop up sprinklers. The factory
setting for most adjustable sprinkler heads is 180º, but you may need to adjust them to ensure coverage. You can adjust your pop-up sprinklers while the water is off or on.
Next, we’ll cover how to adjust impact sprinkler heads. These types of heads sit on a rotating bearing, so they pivot when the water flows through them for a 360º coverage. To fine tune the coverage, this can be accomplished in several steps.
If you want to learn how to adjust rotating sprinkler heads, the process is even more straightforward.
Firstly, you need to check the sprinkler head is flat to the horizon to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Check whether the head is fixed to the left or right. Ensure the fixed side is in line with the starting point by turning the head. Switch on the sprinklers and allow them to cycle several times. You can then use the arc adjustment to set your final rotation point.
Finally, adjust the spray distance using the adjustment screw. If you need to increase the spray, turn it counterclockwise or if it sprays too far, turn it clockwise.
A sprinkler system can be an efficient way to keep your lawn lush. There are many reputable sprinkler brands that allow you to keep your lawn watered without wasting water. However, it is crucial to know how to adjust the sprinkler heads. Whether you have hunter sprinkler heads or rainbird sprinklers, it is important to check the specific instructions on how to adjust the heads.
Fortunately, most types of sprinklers can be easily adjusted without the need for specialist tools or professional experience. By familiarizing yourself with your sprinkler system, you can learn how to adjust your sprinkler heads, making the necessary alterations to ensure your lawn has adequate coverage.
