Pop-Up Spray Heads

The term "spray heads" essentially refers to fixed-arc and adjustable-arc spray heads that are intended for smaller areas serviced by heads up to about 15 feet (4.6 m) in radius.

Adjustable Arcs

Though convenient for odd arc situations, adjustable arcs can fall out of arc adjustment, thus requiring continual maintenance for many types. As a result, some designers limit their usage of adjustable arcs.

Design Pressure & Flow

For best results, spray heads require about 30 psi design pressure. Pressures exceeding 45 psi can cause the heads to mist. Because design pressure is the pressure at the last head, you should add on to that loss for the system.

Spray heads are matched precipitation. Thus, unlike most rotor heads, they will apply a uniform amount of water if you mix different arc patterns and radius nozzles on the same valve.

Popups

A low popup of less than 4 inches usually works best for turf. The best option for shrub areas is either a high popup or fixed riser. Thus, a good practice would be to use a 4-inch popup on Bermuda grass and a 6-inch popup on all other grasses.

For shrubs, a 6-inch popup will be sufficient for an area with no or very low ground cover. A 12-inch popup will work best for all other uses.

In many cases, 6- and 12-inch popups have a side inlet. However, this feature can create maintenance difficulties, and only the bottom inlet would offer a check valve. The cost of a fixed riser can match that of a popup once you factor in the cost of the riser and any necessary support. Because low fixed risers can be major trip hazards, some designers keep fixed risers high enough to prevent people from tripping on them – such as 24 or 36 inches tall – and only use them against a wall or fence.

Video Breakdown

Jake Lott, Land F/X: Pop-Up Spray Heads