Rotary sprinklers play a vital role in keeping lawns and gardens healthy and attractive. With many options available, choosing the right sprinkler system can be confusing.
In this article, we will review the benefits and drawbacks of rotary and spray sprinklers to help you make a well-informed choice.
The Difference Between Rotary sprinklers and Spray Sprinklers
Rotary sprinklers use rotating nozzles that spray water in a circular pattern, covering either a large or small area. Today, many companies are creating new rotary nozzle designs to meet different needs.
Spray sprinklers, by contrast, have fixed nozzles that spray water in one direction. These are the traditional type of sprinkler.
Among the various rotary sprinklers, two types are the most common:
Gear Drive Rotary Nozzles: These are all-in-one units that slowly rotate in set patterns. You might have seen them in parks. Smaller versions are also available for home gardens, with spray ranges starting from about 4.6 meters. They can be adjusted to different angles—some cover 45 degrees, others almost full circles of 365 degrees—making them highly flexible.
Rotary Nozzles on Standard Pop-up Sprinklers: An example is the Hunter MP Rotator nozzle, widely used around the world and one of our preferred rotary nozzle options.
Pros and Cons of Rotary Sprinklers
Pros of Gear Driven Sprinklers
Wide Coverage: Gear driven sprinklers can spray water over long distances, often reaching beyond 20 meters. This makes them a favorite for large properties with water bores. Their rotating action also allows them to cover a bigger area than spray sprinklers, which is perfect for large lawns or gardens.
Less Clogging: These sprinklers are less likely to clog compared to other rotating heads, especially when using bore water. Many models can be taken apart, cleaned, and reused, which adds to their durability.
Water Efficiency: When properly adjusted, gear driven rotary nozzles spread water evenly. This helps avoid areas that receive too much or too little water, making watering more efficient.
Cons of Gear Driven Sprinklers
Lower Precision: Larger gear driven rotors are generally less precise compared to smaller spray heads or compact rotating sprinklers.
Affected by Wind: While gear driven rotors can handle wind better when covering large areas, wind can still cause overspray. This may lead to water hitting driveways, fences, or other nearby surfaces.
Pros of Rotary Nozzles
Wide Coverage and Efficient Station Size: Rotary nozzles spray water farther than regular spray heads and use less pressure. This allows each zone to cover a larger area efficiently.
Consistent and Effective Watering: These nozzles distribute water evenly with a unique spray pattern that cuts through wind and applies water slowly. This gives the soil more time to absorb moisture, which is especially helpful on sloped ground or tough clay and rocky soils.
Adjustable Control: Rotary nozzles can be set anywhere from 45 degrees to a full 360-degree rotation. Many models include side strips that spray water 3-6 meters sideways and about 1.8 meters forward, making them great for narrow spots. They come in various sizes, reaching up to 10.5 meters. The heavier water droplets land accurately, minimizing wind drift. For home irrigation systems using mains water, rotary nozzles are often the best choice.
Cons of Rotating Nozzles
Clogging Issues: If the water supply is very dirty, rotating nozzles can get blocked. Since they contain small internal gears, some models cannot be cleaned and must be replaced.
Longer Run Time: Because rotary nozzles apply water more slowly, they require longer watering times. While this doesn’t mean using more water overall, it can be inconvenient for some users.
Higher Cost: Although rotary nozzles cover larger areas and may reduce the total number of sprinklers needed, they usually cost more per unit than traditional spray heads.
Pros and Cons of Spray Sprinklers
Pros
Flexible: Spray sprinklers are easy to adjust, making them suitable for gardens with a variety of plants.
Lower Cost: They usually cost less upfront compared to rotary sprinklers, making them budget-friendly.
Cons
Uneven Coverage: Traditional spray heads often don’t distribute water evenly. Unless they are perfectly positioned to overlap, you may see dry spots during hot weather. Spray sprinklers cover smaller areas, so you might need more sprinklers, solenoids, and zones to water your lawn properly.
Wind Sensitivity: Spray sprinklers are more affected by wind, causing water to drift away from the target area. Their fine mist also increases water loss through evaporation.
How to Choose the Right Sprinkler System
When choosing between rotary sprinklers and spray sprinklers, think about:
The size and shape of your lawn or garden
Your budget
Your specific watering requirements
Not Sure Which Sprinkler to Choose?
We’re here to help you make the right choice. Get in touch with us and keep your lawn vibrant and green!
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