How to Choose a Backpack Garden Sprayer

A backpack sprayer is a convenient way for you to apply chemicals to your lawn and garden. You can hold up to six gallons on your backpack, making it easier than lugging around a 30-lb. tank. Backpack sprayers come in many different forms. Some will support any chemical you put in it, and some will require more work than others. Do a little research to find the backpack sprayer that fits your needs perfectly.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Choose between a manual backpack sprayer or a motorized sprayer. A manual one will require you to pump with one hand and spray with the other. A motorized sprayer will keep your hand free and require less effort.

2. Decide what type of pump you want if you want a motorized sprayer. Piston pumps are inexpensive and provide a great spraying pressure. Diaphragm pumps are more durable and support many spray formulas. Some spray formulas, like wettable powders, can wear out piston pumps rather quickly.

3. Determine how much formula you want to hold in your tank. Most tanks hold four gallons, but five and six gallon tanks are also available.

4. Know what type of formulas you want to spray in your garden. Most backpack sprayers are resistant to pesticides, herbicides and other chemicals, but you still have to make sure the sprayer can support the chemicals you intend to use.

5. Spend the extra money to buy high-quality hoses, spray nozzles, strainers, pump seals and gaskets. These parts are most likely to fail if they are cheap. Top-of-the-line parts will benefit you in the long run.

6. Look for adjustable and comfortable shoulder straps and a waist belt. Backpack sprayers can get rather heavy, so proper support is necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't let money determine what sprayer you will buy. Some sprayers can get rather expensive, but the money is worth it. Cheap sprayers tend to break, wear out or get clogged in no time.

References

• Choosing a Backpack Sprayer