Pressure-regulating Spray Heads

What are pressure-regulating spray heads?

Most of us dislike living under too much pressure. Neither do sprinklers!

Many irrigation systems have excessive pressure for the type of equipment that has been installed. Over-pressurization can lead to water losses and contribute to uneven watering. Pressure-regulating spray heads are designed to regulate pressure for optimal performance.

How do they work?

Pressure-regulating spray heads include built-in regulators that maintain a more constant pressure for optimal nozzle performance. Typically for spray nozzles, 30 psi provides the best performance. For rotary nozzles the preferred operating pressure is 40-45 psi.

Correct nozzle pressure helps the nozzles distribute the water more evenly and reduces water waste caused by excessive pressure.

SWAT Testing Protocol
SWAT protocols define science-based methods to evaluate whether products meet established standards for water-use efficiency. Version 3.0 of the protocol was released in May 2012 and is the current protocol.

For questions about SWAT or pressure-regulating spray heads, contact the Irrigation Association via email or by calling 703.536.7080.

WaterSense Testing Protocol
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense program began labeling spray sprinkler bodies in 2017. SWAT and the IA worked closely with the EPA as the specification was developed.
        • View WaterSense-labeled spray sprinkler bodies.