Sprinkler heads are an essential part of any watering system, and Hunter sprinkler heads are known for their quality and durability. However, even the best sprinkler heads need to be set correctly in order to water your lawn effectively. In this article, we’ll provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to set a Hunter sprinkler head.
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few tools, including a screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a level. You’ll also need to know the desired spray pattern and radius for your sprinkler head. Once you have your tools and information, you can follow these steps to set your Hunter sprinkler head:
1. Turn off the water supply to the sprinkler system.
2. Locate the sprinkler head you want to adjust.
3. Use the screwdriver to loosen the set screw on the top of the sprinkler head.
4. Pull the sprinkler head up and out of the ground.
5. Use the pliers to adjust the spray nozzle to the desired spray pattern.
6. Use the level to ensure that the sprinkler head is level.
7. Push the sprinkler head back into the ground and tighten the set screw.
Identifying the Right Sprinkler Head
Selecting the appropriate sprinkler head for your lawn is crucial to ensure efficient and effective watering. Hunter Industries, a leading manufacturer of irrigation equipment, offers a wide range of sprinkler heads to cater to different lawn sizes, shapes, and watering needs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you identify the right Hunter sprinkler head for your lawn:
**Consider the Coverage Area:** This refers to the radius of the area the sprinkler head can water effectively. Measure the length and width of your lawn to determine the approximate square footage. Hunter offers sprinkler heads with varying coverage areas, so choose one that aligns with the size of your lawn.
**Choose the Right Spray Pattern:** Hunter sprinkler heads come with different spray patterns to accommodate various lawn shapes. Select a pattern that complements the shape of your lawn. For rectangular lawns, a square or rectangular pattern is ideal, while a circular pattern is suitable for curved or round lawns.
**Determine the Spray Distance:** The spray distance is the radius of the area the sprinkler head can spray water. Measure the distance between the sprinkler head and the farthest point in the area you want to water. Hunter provides sprinkler heads with varying spray distances, so choose one that matches the distance required for your lawn.
**Consider the Flow Rate:** The flow rate refers to the amount of water the sprinkler head discharges per minute. Determine the flow rate required for your lawn by considering factors such as soil type, sunlight exposure, and plant type. Hunter offers sprinkler heads with different flow rates, allowing you to optimize water usage based on the specific needs of your lawn.
Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials
Before embarking on the sprinkler head installation process, it is crucial to gather the essential tools and materials to ensure a smooth and successful endeavor. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:
Tools:
- Shovel or spade
- Adjustable wrench
- Pliers (needle-nose and regular)
- Wire cutters
- Ditch witch (optional, for digging trenches)
- Caulking gun
- Level
- Measuring tape
Materials:
- Hunter sprinkler head (model specific to your needs)
- Pop-up riser (if needed)
- PVC pipe (schedule 40, appropriate diameter)
- PVC cement
- Filter screen
- Sprinkler head adjustment tool (optional)
- Caulk
- Electrical wire (if installing an electrical solenoid valve)
Excavating the Installation Area
Excavating the installation area for your Hunter sprinkler head requires careful preparation to ensure proper drainage and stability. Here are the detailed steps involved:
1. Mark the Excavation Site
Use spray paint or wooden stakes to outline the area where you plan to install the sprinkler head. Consider the coverage area of the sprinkler and any obstacles that may need to be avoided.
2. Remove the Sod or Turf
Remove the top layer of sod or turf using a spade or sod cutter. This will expose the soil and allow for excavation.
3. Excavate the Soil
Dig a hole 6 inches deep and 8 inches wide using a shovel or auger. The hole should be large enough to accommodate the sprinkler head and its base. When digging, ensure that:
| Aspect | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Hole Depth | Should be exactly 6 inches to allow for proper drainage. |
| Hole Width | Must be at least 8 inches to provide ample space for the sprinkler head and base. |
| Soil Condition | The soil should be loose and free of debris to prevent damage to the sprinkler head. |
Once the excavation is complete, level the bottom of the hole to create a stable base for the sprinkler head.
Installing the Spray Nozzle
The spray nozzle directs the water from the sprinkler head. It is important to choose the correct nozzle for the desired spray pattern and coverage area. Hunter offers a variety of nozzles to choose from, each with different flow rates and spray patterns.
To install the spray nozzle, follow these steps:
- Find the nozzle adapter on the sprinkler head. This is usually a small, round piece that is located in the center of the head.
- Remove the nozzle adapter by unscrewing it with your fingers or a small wrench.
- Select the desired spray nozzle and insert it into the nozzle adapter.
- Tighten the nozzle adapter by hand. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the nozzle or the sprinkler head.
- Check the spray pattern and coverage area to ensure that the nozzle is installed correctly. If necessary, adjust the nozzle angle or flow rate to achieve the desired results.
Types of Spray Nozzles
Hunter offers a variety of spray nozzles to choose from, each with different flow rates and spray patterns. The following table lists the different types of spray nozzles available and their corresponding flow rates and spray patterns:
| Nozzle Type | Flow Rate (GPM) | Spray Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| 04 Nozzle | 0.25 – 0.5 | Short range, wide angle |
| 06 Nozzle | 0.5 – 1.0 | Medium range, narrow angle |
| 08 Nozzle | 1.0 – 1.5 | Long range, narrow angle |
| 10 Nozzle | 1.5 – 2.0 | Very long range, very narrow angle |
Adjusting the Spray Arc
Adjusting the spray arc of your Hunter sprinkler head involves manipulating the small tabs or screws located on the nozzle assembly. These tabs or screws can be rotated or moved to alter the width of the spray pattern. The following steps provide a detailed explanation of how to adjust the spray arc:
- Locate the Nozzle Assembly: Identify the nozzle assembly, which is typically a circular or rectangular component located at the top of the sprinkler head.
- Find the Adjustment Tabs or Screws: On the nozzle assembly, you’ll find small tabs or screws that control the arc adjustment. These tabs or screws are usually positioned symmetrically around the assembly.
- Determine the Desired Arc: Decide on the desired spray arc width for your sprinklers. This will depend on the coverage area you want to water and the spacing between the sprinkler heads.
- Rotate or Move the Tabs or Screws: To increase the spray arc, rotate or move the tabs or screws counterclockwise. To decrease the spray arc, rotate or move them clockwise.
- Adjust in Small Increments: Make minor adjustments at a time to fine-tune the spray arc. Avoid overtightening or forcing the tabs or screws.
- Check the Spray Pattern: Once you’ve made the adjustments, activate the sprinkler and observe the spray pattern. If needed, further fine-tune the arc by repeating the previous steps.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps for adjusting the spray arc:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the nozzle assembly. |
| 2 | Find the adjustment tabs or screws. |
| 3 | Determine the desired arc. |
| 4 | Rotate or move the tabs or screws. |
| 5 | Adjust in small increments. |
| 6 | Check the spray pattern and fine-tune as needed. |
Backfilling the Excavation
Once the sprinkler head is in place, the next step is to backfill the excavation. This should be done carefully to avoid damaging the sprinkler head or the surrounding area. To backfill the excavation:
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Fill the excavation with a mixture of soil and sand. The mixture should be compacted as you fill the hole. This will help to prevent the soil from settling and causing the sprinkler head to sink.
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Once the excavation is filled, water the area thoroughly. This will help to settle the soil and prevent the sprinkler head from moving.
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Check the sprinkler head to make sure that it is level. If the sprinkler head is not level, it will not spray water evenly.
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Turn on the water to the sprinkler system and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the fittings or replace the sprinkler head.
Tools You Will Need:
| Tools | Description |
|---|---|
| Shovel | For digging the excavation |
| Tamping tool | For compacting the soil |
| Water hose | For watering the area |
| Level | For checking the level of the sprinkler head |
| Wrench | For tightening the fittings |
Testing the Sprinkler Head
Once the sprinkler head is installed, it’s crucial to test it to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Here’s a detailed guide on how to test a Hunter sprinkler head:
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Turn on the water supply: Slowly open the water supply valve that feeds the sprinkler system.
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Check for leaks: Inspect the sprinkler head for any leaks around the base or joints.
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Manually adjust the head: Gently rotate the sprinkler head to adjust its spray pattern and ensure it’s covering the intended area.
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Check the spray distance and uniformity: Observe the water spray pattern to ensure it’s reaching the desired distance and providing uniform coverage.
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Inspect the nozzle: Remove the nozzle and inspect it for any clogs or debris that may obstruct the water flow.
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Adjust the flow rate: If needed, adjust the flow rate by using the adjustment screw located on the sprinkler head.
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Test the arc adjustment: Rotate the sprinkler head to adjust its arc (the angle of coverage) to ensure it’s watering the right areas.
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Check for timer compatibility: If the sprinkler head is connected to a timer, ensure it’s compatible with the timer’s settings.
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Observe the spray pattern: Stand back and observe the sprinkler’s spray pattern over time to ensure it continues to perform as expected.
| Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Turn on water supply |
| 2 | Check for leaks |
| 3 | Manually adjust head |
| 4 | Check spray distance and uniformity |
| 5 | Inspect nozzle |
| 6 | Adjust flow rate |
| 7 | Test arc adjustment |
| 8 | Check timer compatibility |
| 9 | Observe spray pattern over time |
Troubleshooting Common Problems
1. Water Is Leaking From the Head
One cause of water leaking from the head is that the seal around the nozzle or riser is broken or damaged. Replace the seal to fix the leak.
Another cause of water leaking from the head is that the head is not screwed on tightly enough. Tighten the head with a wrench or screwdriver.
2. The Head Is Not Spraying Water
One cause of the head not spraying water is that the nozzle is clogged. Remove the nozzle and clean it with a brush or needle.
Another cause of the head not spraying water is that the filter is clogged. Remove the filter and clean it with a brush or needle.
3. The Head Is Spraying Water in the Wrong Direction
One cause of the head spraying water in the wrong direction is that the head is not aligned correctly. Adjust the head so that it is facing the correct direction.
Another cause of the head spraying water in the wrong direction is that the deflector is damaged or missing. Replace the deflector to correct the issue.
4. The Head Is Not Popping Up
One cause of the head not popping up is that the spring is broken or damaged. Replace the spring to fix the issue.
Another cause of the head not popping up is that the valve is not opening all the way. Adjust the valve to open all the way.
5. The Head Is Not Retracting
One cause of the head not retracting is that the diaphragm is damaged or ruptured. Replace the diaphragm to fix the issue.
Another cause of the head not retracting is that the water pressure is too low. Adjust the water pressure to the correct level.
6. The Head Is Making a Noise
One cause of the head making a noise is that there is debris in the head. Remove the debris and clean the head.
Another cause of the head making a noise is that the head is not properly lubricated. Lubricate the head with a silicone-based lubricant.
7. The Head Is Not Working at All
One cause of the head not working at all is that the electrical connection is faulty. Check the electrical connection and repair or replace it if necessary.
Another cause of the head not working at all is that the solenoid is burned out. Replace the solenoid to fix the issue.
8. The Head Is Spraying Too Much Water
One cause of the head spraying too much water is that the nozzle is too large. Replace the nozzle with a smaller one.
Another cause of the head spraying too much water is that the water pressure is too high. Adjust the water pressure to the correct level.
9. The Head Is Spraying Too Little Water
One cause of the head spraying too little water is that the nozzle is too small. Replace the nozzle with a larger one.
Another cause of the head spraying too little water is that the water pressure is too low. Adjust the water pressure to the correct level.
10. The Head Is Not Spraying in a Uniform Pattern
One cause of the head not spraying in a uniform pattern is that the nozzle is clogged or damaged. Replace the nozzle to fix the issue.
Another cause of the head not spraying in a uniform pattern is that the head is not level. Adjust the head so that it is level.
How To Set A Hunter Sprinkler Head
1. Turn off the water supply to the sprinkler system. This can be done by closing the main shut-off valve located near the street or by turning off the individual valve that controls the water flow to the sprinkler head.
2. Remove the old sprinkler head by unscrewing it from the riser pipe. If the sprinkler head is stuck, you can use a wrench to loosen it.
3. Apply a small amount of plumber’s tape to the threads of the new sprinkler head. This will help to create a watertight seal.
4. Screw the new sprinkler head onto the riser pipe. Tighten it by hand until it is snug, then use a wrench to tighten it further.
5. Adjust the spray pattern of the sprinkler head by turning the adjustment screw located on top of the head. The spray pattern can be adjusted to a full circle, a half circle, or a quarter circle.
6. Turn on the water supply to the sprinkler system. Check to make sure that there are no leaks at the connection between the sprinkler head and the riser pipe.
People Also Ask About How To Set A Hunter Sprinkler Head
How do I adjust the spray distance of a Hunter sprinkler head?
To adjust the spray distance of a Hunter sprinkler head, use a flathead screwdriver to turn the adjustment screw located on top of the head. Turning the screw clockwise will decrease the spray distance, while turning the screw counterclockwise will increase the spray distance.
How do I replace the nozzle on a Hunter sprinkler head?
To replace the nozzle on a Hunter sprinkler head, remove the old nozzle by unscrewing it from the head. Then, screw the new nozzle onto the head. Be sure to tighten the nozzle snugly.
