Jessica ZanderWhen trying to set up your watering equipment, there are a couple of things you can’t do without. There’s the controller, the piping, and of course, the sprinkler heads. Sprinkler heads are an important component when setting up watering for your lawn. It is important to carefully consider your choices before choosing a sprinkler head for your lawn. In this review, we will be checking out some of the best sprinkler heads for lawns. We took considerable time digging through the list to discover the best sprinkler heads for your lawn; let’s take a look.
For this review, we chose the Rain Bird Rotor Heads 5000 as the best sprinkler head for lawn sprinklers. The Rain Bird sprinkler heads have a decent 15ft spray range and height of about 4-inches. It’s made of durable plastic materials and is darn affordable. If you’re looking for metal sprinkler heads, we recommend the Gilmour 167H Sprinkler Head; it has a 42-ft spray range.
Contents
Best Sprinkler Heads for Lawn Sprinklers: Comparison Table
| Sprinkler Heads For Lawn Sprinklers | Spray Range | Material | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rain Bird Rotor Heads 5000 | 15 feet | Plastic |
| 2 | K-Rain Pro-S Pop—Up Sprinkler Head | 8-15 feet | Plastic |
| 3 | Gilmour 167H Sprinkler Head | 42 feet | Metal |
| 4 | Orbit 55662 Voyager II Sprinkler Head | 25-52 feet | Plastic |
| 5 | Rain Bird 25PJDAC Brass Sprinkler Head | 20-41 feet | Metal |
Sprinkler Head For Lawn Sprinklers – Buying Guide
When choosing the right sprinkler head to water your lawn properly, there are some factors you should look out for. This ensures that you don’t end up with a sprinkler head that doesn’t adequately meet your needs. We’ve rounded up some of the vital factors that will help you make the right choice of sprinkler head; take a look.
Sprinkler Type
There are different categories of sprinkler heads. There are the fixed sprinkler heads that have a central body. The circular nozzle it comes with allows the water to be sprayed in all directions. They don’t move around, so they might not be the best option for wider lawns. The second type of sprinkler heads is the oscillating sprinkler heads.
They have a few rows of holes to be able to spray water in different directions. The oscillating sprinkler head usually has its head seated on a base, and it then oscillates from one side to another, saturating the lawn. There are also impact sprinkler heads that are also referred to as pulsating heads. This is because water is pushed out of the sprinkler head at high pressure. They’re a good choice for large lawns, but if you’re dealing with delicate plants, it could harm your plants.
The most popular option is the rotating sprinkler head; this is because it spins 360 degrees and has a couple of spinning arms. The water spreads into the spinning arms and saturates the lawn; this is an adjustable sprinkler head. Other types are misting and pop-up; the pop-up is another popular option for lawns because they last longer.
Sprinkler Material
This is another important consideration. The material also determines the durability of the sprinkler. There are sprinkler heads that are made from plastics and metal. There are times you get lucky and come across a sprinkler that’s a mix of both. Metal sprinkler heads are quite durable because they don’t crack or break easily.
However, they’re not so flexible and can easily spring a leak, unlike a plastic sprinkler head. Plastic is lighter and moves easily. They can spin in a different direction and are not as rigid as their metal counterpart. The hybrid option is more popular because while they possess metal durability, they also have plastic flexibility.
Lawn Size
The lawn size is another vital factor that will help you choose the best sprinkler head for you. Small lawns don’t need sprinkler heads that rotate, move or oscillate. A stationary pop-up is the best option for this type of lawn and will also be great for your budget. However, if you own a mid-sized lawn, then an oscillating sprinkler head would be a perfect fit. You can also settle for a pop-up or rotating sprinkler head.
This is because these types of sprinklers offer more range than you would get with a stationary sprinkler and would be able to cover the additional space. Large lawns, on the other hand, do well with pop-up sprinklers. You should extensively spread these sprinkler heads out over the lawn. If you prefer, you could go for an impact sprinkler head due to the high water pressure it offers.
Sprinkler Water Pressure
The water pressure also determines the functionality of the sprinkler, so it is an important consideration. While the impact, oscillating, pop-up, and rotating sprinkler heads rely on water pressure for their power source, stationary and misting do not. When operating any of the former, low water pressure cannot supply enough power for the sprinkler head to move and efficiently disperse the water. However, with stationary and misting, it would function appropriately because there are no moving parts.
Installation
You don’t want a complicated sprinkler head that no one can install for you. Luckily, most sprinkler heads are so easy to fix, you don’t need a manual. Most sprinkler heads simply sit on the lawn, and all you have to do is connect it to a hose. However, some require a level of installation. Misting sprinkler heads work with sprinkler systems, but pop-up sprinkler heads might require a level of installation. Choose the one you’re most comfortable with and doesn’t require so much maintenance to last you a long while.
Other Features to Consider
The features listed above are vital to the utilization of the sprinkler head. Several other features enhance the sprinkler head’s usage experience. With these features included, there is greater ease and convenience to be enjoyed. One of those features is adjustable nozzles; this allows you to customize the spray’s direction and angle. Lawn spikes or tripods are also amazing features; they support the sprinkler head and widens the sprinkler head range.
Another feature you can look out for is timers on the sprinkler head. They offer more convenience as you can simply set when the timer comes on or off. There is also integrated flow control that is indicated by a valve on the sprinkler head. It is used to either increase or decrease water flow to sprinkler heads.
Best Sprinkler Head for Lawn Sprinklers: Reviews
Picking a sprinkler head for your lawn can be very stressful. There are so many available in the market; it’s hard to decide which fits. This is why we’ve saved you the hours you would have spent sorting through the different listings with a list of the best options. We have put together a list of top sprinkler heads to meet your requirement and keep your lawn alive in summer.
1. Best Sprinkler Head For Lawn Sprinklers – Rain Bird Rotor Heads 5000
Features: 4-pack sprinkler head, adjustable spray nozzle, spray range up to 15ft, triple-blade wiper seal, durable sprinkler head, leak-resistant, pressure-assisted pop-up sprinkler, 3-gallons-per-minute nozzle, and ideal for mid-sized and large lawns.
This is the best on our list for a lot of reasons. It is an automated watering system packed with many features that makes it an absolute steal and comes with a triple-blade wiper blade seal that helps protect against internal issues like leaks. This also protects the sprinkler head from external dangers like debris and dust.
The Rain Bird Rotor Sprinkler head comes in a pack of four and is, therefore, enough for a medium-sized or large lawn. It also comes with an adjustable spray nozzle that distributes water from 40-360 degrees. The spray range is wide enough to cover about eight to fifteen feet, and it also features a 4-inch pop-up height. Consistent quality is what you get with this sprinkler head.
It is a durable sprinkler head which is why it is used commercially and in many homes. The flow rate is efficient, so there is no fear of pooling or soil erosion for your lawn. It also features a thick casing to protect the drive motor. Water your lawn in silence with this sprinkler head; there is no-click sound to be scared of. This way, your neighbors won’t even know when you’re watering.
The pressure-assisted pop-up and anti-clog head ensure that this sprinkler head lasts you a very long time with little maintenance required.
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2. K-Rain Pro-S Pop—Up Sprinkler Head
Features: 4-inch pop-up sprinkler head, plastic material, six-pack, leakproof, 8-15 spray range, adjustable nozzle, ratchet riser, retraction spring, UV-treated inhibitor, resistant seal, and durable.
Another sprinkler head you should try out is the K-Rain Pro-S Professional Pop-Up Sprinkler Head. It comes in a pack of six, which makes it enough for large lawns. Although it is affordable, you don’t have to compromise on quality with this sprinkler head. It is constructed with plastic material which ensures it is lightweight and moves around easily.
This sprinkler head is integrated with a resistant seal that protects against debris and dirt, which could disrupt the system. It is a durable sprinkler head that offers you the best performance. It features an adjustable nozzle that offers an 8-15 spray range. The sprinkler head can also turn up to 360-degree; this ensures that no part of your lawn is not watered.
The pop-up sprinkler head is pressure-assisted. It also comes with a ratchet rise and heavy-duty retraction springs when you want a full retraction. The UV-treated inhibitors it is built with ensures that this sprinkler head lasts you a long time. The resistant seal also ensures the sprinkler head’s components do not degrade by preventing dirt and debris from the sprinkler head.
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3. Gilmour 167H Sprinkler Head
Features: Metal material, 43-foot radius, impulse arm, save water, diffuser screw, durable, provides full and partial coverage, lack of backsplash issues and, easily adjustable.
Gilmour 167J Sprinkler Head is made of metal, so you’re assured of its durability. It can withstand all elements and will adequately last through different seasons. The water coverage is up to 5,800 square feet and also a 43-foot radius. This allows you to customize it to either partial or full coverage; it all depends on your preference.
The impulse arm it is designed with is an excellent component that helps you save water. You don’t have to worry about backsplashes, so it helps you save water while you’re watering your lawn. The diffuser screw it comes with allows you to adjust the water stream without much work. It also ensures even coverage of your lawn.
The materials used in its construction are zinc and brass, so you’re assured that this Gilmour 167H Sprinkler Head will last you a very long time. A top feature of this sprinkler head is that you can reverse it full circle. This means it will spray water counterclockwise if you want; there are cases where this is best.
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4. Orbit 55662 Voyager II Sprinkler Head – Best Sprinkler Head For Large Lawn
Features: 4-inch pop-up sprinkler head, universally compatible, adjustable nozzle, 25-52ft spray range, plastic material, water-saving design, 3-gallon a minute nozzle, debris filter, comes with multiple nozzles and durable design.
If you don’t want much stress, then you should look out for an automated sprinkler head. This is what Orbit 55662 Voyager II Sprinkler Head offers you. It is a 4-inch pop-up sprinkler head and offers up to a 25-52ft spray range due to its adjustable nozzle. This makes it a great choice if your lawn is a large one.
It is a sprinkler head that you can use with any sprinkler system because it is universally compatible and it’s made from top-quality plastic and can rotate up to 360 degrees. in addition to that, it has an inbuilt filter that helps to prevent dirt from clogging up the nozzle. Since it is adjustable, you can change up the spray range and diameter whenever you want.
The enclosed body design it features assures you that debris won’t get into the system. It has an efficient flow rate and will therefore prevent soil loss. There are different nozzles you can choose from, and the operation is near-silent. This means there is no clicking sound to be scared of. This is a professional sprinkler head designed to last you a long while and requires little maintenance to serve you appropriately.
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5. Rain Bird 25PJDAC Brass Sprinkler Head
Features: Metal material, easy installation, durable, straight-through water flow design, diffuser screw, sturdy construction, 20-41 inches spray range, impact sprinkler type, and saves water.
This is a sprinkler head you go for when you want a reliable option to give you the best value for your money. The manufacturers built this sprinkler head to last, and this is apparent in the brass material used in its design. Many features are built into this sprinkler head to make it a convenient sprinkler head for your home.
The Rain Bird 25PJDAC is easy to install in your home and can be adjusted anytime you want. It offers full coverage that can be adjusted whenever the user wants. If you get water to water your lawn from ponds or irrigation canals, this is the ideal sprinkler head for you. It features a straight-through water flow design that ensures it doesn’t get rusted or clogged.
It also comes with a diffuser screw that allows you to choose to reduce the radius or break the water into little droplets. The spray arm is created with help to save water by ensuring walkways are not splashed. With the 20-41ft spray range, you can rest assured your entire lawn is getting watered. Its sturdy construction also ensures it lasts you several years.
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FAQs – Best Sprinkler Heads For Lawn Sprinklers
- Can I mix different sprinkler heads? While you can do this with brands, do not mix up the sprinkler head type. Each sprinkler head has a flow rate and other features that make it unique. Matching and mixing might affect your sprinkler’s functionality.
- How long should I water my lawn? You can water your lawn two or three times a week. Ensure you do it for twenty or thirty minutes each time and you’re covered.
- How often do I have to water my lawn? This usually depends on the water and if there are water conversation laws in place. However, two or three times every week is more than sufficient to keep your lawn going.
- How soon do I need to replace my sprinkler head? This totally depends on the quality of the sprinkler head. However, a properly maintained sprinkler head can serve you for about ten to fifteen years before a replacement is needed.
Final Thoughts
The best sprinkler head fits your desired water pressure and adequately meets your lawn needs. We’ve singled out the best sprinkler heads to do this efficiently. These sprinkler heads fall into different categories, and with varying ranges of spray, you can choose which is ideal for your lawn size. Ensure you consider the factors above when choosing a sprinkler head for your lawn, and you’ll not go wrong.
I've been passionate about gardening since the early 1990s, and in 2022, I launched You Can Do It Gardening to empower individuals to feel more confident in their gardening endeavors.
Following a 30-year career in nonprofit finance and operations, I transitioned out of that field in mid-June of 2023 due to the growing demand for coaching services. Interestingly, my years of presenting financial statements to boards and finance committees proved to be valuable experience for teaching people about gardening! I enjoy sharing skills, providing guidance and suggestions, and collaborating efficiently with clients to make significant improvements to their outdoor spaces, both small and large. I also regularly teach at the Arlington Continuing Education and Cambridge Adult Education.
My approach is direct and practical, akin to Mary Poppins, but tailored to your garden. Clients find satisfaction in saving money and taking pride in their own gardening achievements.
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Hello! I’m Jessica Zander, a garden coach and consultant based in the Boston area (zone 6b), offering virtual consultations across the country and Canada.
I’ve been passionate about gardening since the early 1990s, and in 2022, I launched You Can Do It Gardening to empower individuals to feel more confident in their gardening endeavors.
Following a 30-year career in nonprofit finance and operations, I transitioned out of that field in mid-June of 2023 due to the growing demand for coaching services. Interestingly, my years of presenting financial statements to boards and finance committees proved to be valuable experience for teaching people about gardening! I enjoy sharing skills, providing guidance and suggestions, and collaborating efficiently with clients to make significant improvements to their outdoor spaces, both small and large. I also regularly teach at the Arlington Continuing Education and Cambridge Adult Education.
My approach is direct and practical, akin to Mary Poppins, but tailored to your garden. Clients find satisfaction in saving money and taking pride in their own gardening achievements.
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