Step 2: Do you have enough water pressure and water flow to operate all your heads?
In order to determine how many heads you can use per zone, we need to know your water pressure and flow rate. At different pressures, the sprinkler head and nozzle will consume different amounts of water. For example, at 35 pounds per square inch (PSI) the 5000 Series Rotor using the 3.0 nozzle will use 3.11 gallons per minute (GPM). If your home's water capacity was 10 GPM, you could place 3 heads per zone. Consult the Performance Charts on or inside the box your sprinkler head came in for your head's exact performance data, or locate the performance data in the Products area of this web site.
1. Check your water pressure:
Screw the pressure gauge onto the nearest faucet to the water meter. Make sure no water is running anywhere inside or outside your house. Turn on the faucet with the gauge attached. The gauge shows your water pressure in pounds per square inch (PSI). You may also call your local water company to find out your water pressure.
2. Measure your home's water capacity (flow):
Get a measurable container, like a 5 gallon bucket, make sure no other water is running in or outside the house, turn the faucet on all the way and time how long it takes to fill the container. 300 divided by number of seconds it takes to fill the container = GPM. Note: For pump systems, check with your well and pump dealer or the owner's manual of your pump to determine its pressure and flow capacity.
Question: do you have enough water pressure and flow for your system?
Yes, I have enough water pressure and water flow, but my sprinklers still will not rotate. Please proceed to Step 3: clogged heads.
