- Why Low Pressure Matters for Sprinklers in Australia
- What to Look for in Low Pressure Sprinklers
- Types of Sprinklers for Low Pressure in Australia
- Top-Rated Low Pressure Sprinkler Options in Australia
- Choosing the Right Layout and Spacing
- Design Tips for Low Pressure Systems
- FAQs about Low Pressure Sprinklers in Australia
- Conclusion
Dealing with low water pressure can make irrigating your garden a headache in drought-prone parts of Australia. Traditional sprinklers often require high pressure to work properly, which can lead to patchy coverage and frustration. Thankfully, with the right sprinkler designed for low pressure conditions, you can keep your garden healthy no matter the water constraints.
In this comprehensive guide for Australian homeowners and gardeners, we’ll explore your best options for sprinklers that can handle low water pressure. We’ll consider key features to look for, types of sprinklers that work best, top-rated products to consider, and insider tips on getting the most out of your system. We’ll also answer common questions Australians have about low pressure sprinklers.
Whether you’re working with an older home in Adelaide or Melbourne with dodgy plumbing, installing a new system in a high elevation area of Canberra, or aiming to conserve water in Perth, this guide will help you discover the best sprinklers for optimising lawn and garden irrigation in our drought-prone climate. With the right gear, you can overcome low pressure challenges and effectively water your greenery.
Why Low Pressure Matters for Sprinklers in Australia
Traditional sprinklers typically require mains pressure between 40 to 60 PSI (pounds per square inch) to operate effectively. This allows the sprinkler to distribute water evenly across the spray area for full coverage.
However, when pressure drops below 40 PSI, you’re likely to experience:
- Dry spots from poor coverage – Parts of your lawn or garden get missed completely. This leads to patchy growth.
- Clogging – Insufficient water velocity results in sprinkler heads getting clogged more easily by grit, minerals and debris. Clogged heads can’t distribute water.
- Leaking – Seals and connections leak more readily with weaker water pressure. This wastes our precious drinking water.
- Reduced spray distance – Lower pressure causes misting rather than proper spray projection to reach far enough.
To overcome these headaches and get reliably robust coverage, choosing a sprinkler made specifically to perform in low pressure conditions is critical. Let’s look at the key features that enable them to thrive.
What to Look for in Low Pressure Sprinklers
When shopping for top-notch sprinklers to tackle low water pressure in Australia, keep an eye out for these helpful design elements:
Pressure Compensating Heads
These self-regulate the flow rate to maintain uniform distribution from all outlets. Prevents dry patches as pressure fluctuates.
Multi-Trajectory Nozzles
Adjustable nozzles with multi-stream outlets let you customise the spray distance and pattern. Makes up for low pressure limiting spray reach.
Built-In Pressure Regulation
Some models have regulators integrated to stabilise erratic pressure from the main line. Provides smooth, reliable flow.
Check Valves
These stop water from draining out and maintain system prime between watering sessions. Avoid having to re-pressurise.
Wide, Debris-Resistant Inlets
Large inlets prevent grit and minerals in Aussie water from clogging things up. Keeps the flow cranking.
Robust Diaphragms
Reinforced diaphragms handle pressure changes without leaking. Critical for reliable efficiency.
Adjustable Flow Control
Select sprinklers allow tweaking litres per minute. Tailor water volume to your available flow.
Now let’s check out the main categories of sprinklers designed for our low pressure conditions down under.
Types of Sprinklers for Low Pressure in Australia
Spray Head Sprinklers
Spray heads have short risers topped with flush sprinklers that distribute water through small nozzles in set patterns.
Best For: Smaller areas like gardens beds. Not ideal for large lawns.
Key Features:
- Pressure compensating
- Multi-trajectory nozzles
- Wide debris-resistant inlets
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to install
- Adjustable spray pattern
Cons:
- Prone to clogging
- Limited radius
- Can require many heads for full coverage
Top Models: Rain Bird, Orbit Voyager II, Gilmour Flow Control
Rotary Gear Drive Sprinklers
Rotary sprinklers use spinning streams or gears that spread water out over a set radial distance. Cover more area than spray heads.
Best For: Medium to large open lawns.
Key Features:
- Built-in pressure regulation
- Robust gears
- Adjustable radius
Pros:
- Even water distribution
- Covers broad areas
- Adaptable spray distance
Cons:
- Moving parts need maintenance
- Higher cost
Top Models: Rain Bird 5004, Hunter PGP Ultra, Orbit H2O-6
Oscillating Sprinklers
Oscillators use tubes with holes that sweep back and forth to cover rectangular patches with a mist.
Best For: Narrow spaces like driveway strips or smaller gardens.
Key Features:
- Flexible tubing
- Water pulse oscillator
- Distance control
Pros:
- Great for long narrow spaces
- Lightweight and portable
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- Prone to clogging
- Can have uneven coverage
- Small total coverage
Top Models: Melnor XT Turbo, Orbit Voyager II, Gilmour Pulsating
Impact/Impulse Sprinklers
Popup spray heads on sleds with spring-loaded arms, water pulses move the arm distributing water in a fan.
Best For: Large open fields and lawns.
Key Features:
- Heavy-duty sled base
- Adjustable radius and speed
- Interchangeable nozzles
Pros:
- Huge coverage capacity
- Even watering
- Reliable robust build
Cons:
- High water usage
- Big supply line required
- Noisy
Top Models: Nelson Raintrain, Orbit Voyager III, Melnor Heavy-Duty
Soaker Hoses/Drip Irrigation
Hoses/tubing with small perforations run along garden beds emiting water slowly to plant roots.
Best For: Gardens, trees, shrubs. Not suitable for lawns.
Key Features:
- Pressure compensating emitters
- Filters
- Sturdy tubing
Pros:
- Most efficient water use
- Targets plant roots
- Flexible layouts
Cons:
- Tricky setup
- Emitters clog easily
Top Models: Orbit 2-Outlet Timer, Melnor Flat Soaker, DIG Drip Kits
Evaluate your specific terrain, vegetation, and pressure situation to choose the best sprinkler type for your needs.
Top-Rated Low Pressure Sprinkler Options in Australia
Now let’s check out 5 of the leading low pressure sprinkler options for optimising coverage and efficiency:
1. Orbit Voyager II Gear Drive Sprinkler
This compact rotary gear drive delivers proven performance. With an adjustable spray radius from 8 to 16 metres, it adapts to low pressure for full coverage. The durable gears provide smooth operation for years and the diffuser screw lets you fine-tune the pattern. Our top overall pick for Aussie lawn irrigation.
2. Melnor XT Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler
The XT Turbo features a turbo-charged end design to compensate for velocity loss across its 20 metre span. The dual-pivot head provides smooth oscillation. Ideal for rectangular patches and patios with low pressure.
3. Rain Bird 6VAN Professional Spray Head
Rain Bird’s variable arc nozzles range from 40 to 360 degrees to target specific zones. With 15cm pop-ups, they sit flush until activated. Pressure compensating diaphragm provides even output down to low pressure.
4. Orbit Voyager II Impact Sprinkler
With sliding and rotating head, this impact sprinkler provides maximum coverage up to 25 metre diameter. The robust zinc sled base keeps the arm aligned. Adjustable radius and speed settings adapt to low pressure.
5. DIG Battery Operated Hose Timer
For the ultimate in timing control, this 1 zone battery-powered timer attaches to your tap to automatically open/close on your schedule. Independent daily programs and battery operation maintains consistent pressure. Fully automates watering.
Choosing the Right Layout and Spacing
To maximise efficiency, you need proper spacing and positioning of sprinklers for full, even coverage from low pressure. Here are some key guidelines:
- Space stationary heads 50% of listed spray distance (e.g. 10m spray, space 5m apart)
- Position sprinklers on risers at the highest point
- Layout rows perpendicular to any slope
- Overlap spray areas to prevent dry patches
- Use more closely spaced heads for very low pressure
Evaluate spray patterns and listed radius for selected models to map out the optimal arrangement. Adjust and test sections to ensure adequate coverage. Proper spacing is crucial for low pressure.
Design Tips for Low Pressure Systems
When planning a new low pressure sprinkler system, incorporate these tips to maximise performance:
- Add a booster pump if pressure is critically low
- Use 25mm or larger main feeder lines
- Ensure piping can handle required litres per minute
- Position valves near sprinklers
- Install filters at valves and inlets
- Bury lines 450-600mm deep to prevent freezing
- Include a pressure regulator at the water source
- Mount backflow preventer above ground
- Add automatic drain valves for winterisation
Avoid mixing standard and low pressure heads on shared lines. Consider separate zones for standard and low pressure sprinklers.
FAQs about Low Pressure Sprinklers in Australia
Let’s summarise answers to some common questions Australians have about low pressure sprinkler solutions:
What PSI do irrigation systems need?
Most sprinklers require 275 to 415 kPa (40-60 PSI) for proper spray height, distance and coverage. Below 275 kPa, choose specialised low pressure models.
What causes low water pressure for sprinklers?
Common causes include old plumbing, high elevation, long pipe runs, undersized supply lines, clogged heads, high demand, and limited community supply.
How can I increase water pressure for sprinklers?
Options include installing a booster pump, replacing with larger supply pipes, using high-flow valves, or switching to low pressure sprinkler heads.
Can I combine regular and low pressure sprinkler heads?
It’s best to separate standard and low pressure heads into zones on different valves. Mixed pressure causes uneven watering. Use all low pressure heads on problem zones.
How do I adjust spray distance for low pressure?
Many heads have adjustable radius screws. Start at the highest setting and work down until you achieve sufficient head-to-head coverage. Closer spacing also compensates for short spray.
How often should low pressure sprinklers run?
Run times vary based on system capacity and soil type. Typically 3 times per week for 10-15 minutes (clay soil) to 20-30 minutes (sandy soil) per zone is adequate.
What flow rate do low pressure sprinklers need?
Low pressure rotors require around 15-20 litres per minute. Spray heads use 10 litres per minute. Drip irrigation can work on just 2 litres per minute.
Conclusion
Upgrading to Australia’s best sprinklers for low water pressure can truly optimise your irrigation effectiveness. Look for key features like pressure compensation, multi-trajectory nozzles and debris resistance when choosing heads. Consider your landscape and vegetation to select the right sprinkler types and spacing. With smart design tailored to your conditions, you can enjoy a flourishing garden even with pressure limitations.
Always seek professional advice for your specific situation. Proper installation and maintenance are also vital for ongoing performance. Conquering low pressure takes the right gear and strategic planning. But the rewards of efficiently automating irrigation make it a worthy investment.
