How to Buy In-ground Lawn Sprinklers

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Are some of the sprinkler heads on your in-ground system not preforming up to the requirments of the job? Old age, hard water or abuse of many kinds (don't let the kids use them as giant squirt guns) can shorten the life span and cut down on efficiency. Let's look at some replacement tips.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Look at maintance problems first. The problem may be correctable and save you money if it correctable. (See: Maintain an In-ground Sprinkler System)

Step2

Try and stay with the brand of sprinklers that came with your system. They are designed to work most efficiently with your other components. The second choice would be a brand that is clearly stated as compatible with your systems requirements.

Step3

Remember that the life span of any of the major brands that were installed by a contractor maybe be longer than the like models from your local lawn and garden center. The lawn care specialist installed sprinklers heads maybe a bit more expensive but have stronger, longer lasting parts to help them meet the warranty promises they make. If poosible check into buying from a contractor as it could save you time and money in the long run.

Step4

Remove the old sprinkler head and take it with you to purchase a replacement. Most simply screw off of the supply pipe below it. This will insure that the new one is an exact match as far as brand or any specialized spray patterns that fit the area being watered.

Step5

Check into making adjustments in your sprinkler heads at this time. If the old one was watering areas that didn't need it (like the drive-way or sidewalk), look into getting a special spray pattern head. They come in models that cover 90 degree or 180 degree staionary or rotating service patterns.

Step6

Make sure that the sprinkler heads are tight when replaced but that it matches the old level of elevation in relation to ground level. A lower or higher position will change the area being watered.