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Watering Device Types

Sprayhead Standard Sprayhead Rotating Rotating Sprayhead Drip Irrigation Bubbler

Sprayhead with standard nozzle

Sprayhead with rotating nozzle

Rotor sprinklers

Drip irrigation

Bubblers

These devices are commonly used in small and irregularly shaped landscape areas.

They apply water faster than most soils can take in resulting in water running off. Therefore, water should be applied in multiple short cycles with time in between to soak.

The optimal operating pressure ranges from 20 to 30 pounds per square inch (PSI) with a typical throw distance of 4 to 18 feet.

These types of sprinklers apply water at a slower rate and are often used to retrofit an existing standard spray zone.

Their low application rates allow water to be absorbed into the soil and are especially well suited for sloped landscapes.  They do not conform well to very small areas.

Optimal pressure ranges from 25 to 50 PSI with a throw distance of 8 to 30 feet.

These devices are commonly used in large wide open areas. 

Their low application rates allow water to be absorbed into the soil and are especially well suited for sloped landscapes.  They do not conform well to very small areas.

The optimal operating pressure ranges from 30 to 60 PSI with a throw distance of about 13 to 50 feet.

This type of sprinkler system is commonly used in shrub beds for watering plants individually.

Application rates are generally very low. Drip irrigation applies water slowly, directly to the soil and soaks in before it can evaporate or run off.  The water is only applied where it is needed, (at the plant's roots).

Optimal pressure ranges from 20 to 30 PSI. Emitters can apply 0.1 to 0.5 gallons per minute (GPM).

These sprinklers are typically used in very narrow planters or planter basins. 

They have an application rate that varies from low to moderate and are well suited for watering shrubs or trees.

These sprinklers need a pressure of at least 30 to 60 PSI and can have a throw distance of up to 5 feet.

These devices typically apply water at a rate of 0.25 to 2.0 (GPM)


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