Rotors Vs. Spray Heads

The two most commonly used type of heads in automatic lawn sprinkler systems are either rotor/ rotary style heads or spray heads that do not rotate. Rotors rotate or move and thus have a lower precipitation rate than spray heads. In other words it takes a zone of rotors longer to apply the same amount of water per square foot than fixed spray heads.

Spray heads do not rotate and have a higher precipitation rate. That is they get the area watering quicker or faster. It is common sense really. Since the water is constantly being saturated and not moved past like with a rotor, it will get watered faster.

However, rotors and sprays have the place,. It all depends on design and size of the landscape on what type of heads are best to use. The average house will have a combination of rotors and sprays zones and maybe even drip zones.

I like rotor heads because they do not tend to get clogged as easy as spray head nozzles. Most rotors seem more durable than the average spray head also. Rotors cover larger areas so, there are less heads used. But spray heads have there place where it is just too small for rotors.

The main advantage of sprays is that you can get your watering done faster. If you have a limited window, then spray heads are the faster at applying water down to the landscape. Rotor heads are great for larger areas and will require less maintenance, but you will have to water the rotor heads slightly longer, about 3X longer than sprays for the same amount of water. They both have their pros & cons, but are both needed in specific situations.

Scott
http://www.autolawnsprinklers.com