With a lawn sprinkler you can water your garden thoroughly and conveniently. In our guide you can find out what distinguishes the device in general, what types there are and what you should pay attention to when buying a sprinkler. We also give you practical tips on how to care for your lawn and how to sprinkle it properly.

The selection of lawn sprinklers is huge

Table of Contents

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  1. Types of Lawn Sprinklers
  2. Other purchase criteria
  3. What brands are there?
  4. How do I maintain a lawn sprinkler?
  5. Which accessories are useful?
  6. frequently asked Questions

    7. Types of Lawn Sprinklers

    Lawn sprinklers (€26.95) are used in different areas, each of which places different demands on the watering device. For example, a sprinkler for golf courses or other sports fields must have a very long range, while a light, gentle water jet is ideal for a small private green oasis with flowers.

    In the meantime, the right lawn sprinkler for every purpose is available on the market. The most important types at a glance:

    • circular sprinkler
    • square sprinkler
    • sprinkler
    • gear sprinkler
    • impact sprinkler
    • large area sprinkler

    In the following, we briefly introduce each of these six variants, including their specific advantages and disadvantages.

    circular sprinkler

    our recommendation
    Royal Gardineer lawn sprinkler: circular lawn sprinkler, 8 spray functions, for common garden hoses (circular sprinklers)
    5.99 EUR To the product

    The circle or sector sprinkler has a head that rotates and emits a jet of water. In this way, it achieves 360-degree watering, which in turn results in an evenly watered lawn.

    One of the advantages is the simple installation: you simply place the circular sprinkler in your garden so that it can reach all areas that need water, and connect it to your garden hose.

    With some circular sprinklers you can activate different programs and thus change the water jet. At least the nozzles, which are mounted on three arms in most sector sprinklers, can often be adjusted.

    You usually regulate the range via the water pressure. Individual models also allow you to limit the sector - i.e. the angle - as required.

    There are also disadvantages: Circular sprinklers are often not very stable because they are not attached to the lawn, but only placed on it.

    This can also disturb the appearance of the garden if the lawn sprinkler stays in place, i.e. you do not dismantle it after each use (possibly annoying and uncomfortable in the long run…).

    Another potential weak point: If you link several sector sprinklers for a longer range, this may result in double irrigation in some areas of your green oasis, which can damage the lawn and the plants.

    Advantages and disadvantages at a glance:

    benefits
    • 360 degree irrigation
    • easy to install and position
    • often adjustable nozzles
    • sometimes programmed differently
    • Sector and range can be limited
    disadvantage
    • often not very stable
    • Double irrigation possible when coupling several devices
    • Placement on the lawn may disturb the garden image

    square sprinkler

    our recommendation
    GARDENA Rectangular Sprinkler AquaZoom S: Sprinkler for watering areas of 9 - max. 150 m², range 3 - max. 15 m, explosive range 3 - max. 10 m, integrated metal filter (18710-20)
    23.97 EUR To the product

    As the name suggests, the square sprinkler is primarily designed for rectangular or square lawns. Depending on the model, the water sprays either from a head or from a metal tube. Installing and positioning is just as simple as with the rotary sprinkler.

    In the majority of the versions, both the range and the watering width can be individually adjusted. The head/tube rotates from left to right. Because of this, you can usually fix the beam on one side.

    The connection of several lawn sprinklers works better with square sprinklers, since you prevent double sprinkling by cleverly placing the sprinklers - unlike with circular sprinklers, the head or the pipe does not turn in a circle.

    As far as the disadvantages are concerned, the same applies to square sprinklers as to circular sprinklers. The "open" and thus permanently visible position is not the yellow of the egg. In addition, there is often a lack of stability. If the water pressure is too high, the square sprinkler could tip over.

    Advantages and disadvantages at a glance:

    benefits
    • easy to install and position
    • Range and watering width are variable
    • Coupling easy to implement (hardly any risk of double irrigation)
    disadvantage
    • often unstable
    • Placement on the lawn may disturb the garden image

    sprinkler

    our recommendation
    Gardena Classic Spray Sprinkler Fox: Gentle lawn sprinkler even for the smallest areas, for a maximum diameter of 11 m, ideal for beds and front gardens, can be securely fixed in the ground, mobile use (1951-20)
    7.49 EUR To the product

    Characteristic of the spray sprinkler is the particularly gentle water jet, which sensitive flowers, bushes and hedges adore.

    Like circular sprinklers, the "spraying" models also achieve complete 360-degree irrigation. Either they basically scatter - due to a corresponding design - a circle or the nozzle rotates. However, many sprinklers allow you to set a limited arc again if necessary.

    Also very practical: With a ground spike mounted on the gearbox, the device is fairly stable. In some cases, the sprinkler can even be lowered.

    A disadvantage is the rapid evaporation of the small droplets. Ultimately, that means you need more water. That's why we advise you to only consider a sprinkler if you have a rather small, manageable garden.

    360 degree irrigation increases the risk of double sprinkling when multiple sprinklers are combined.

    With retractable sprinklers, the installation is more complex because you have to lay the water pipe in the ground.

    Advantages and disadvantages at a glance:

    benefits
    • gentle water jet
    • 360 degree irrigation
    • Sector can be narrowed down
    • stable thanks to ground spike
    • partially retractable
    disadvantage
    • Double irrigation possible when coupling several devices
    • Water evaporates quickly (more water required)
    • Complex installation for retractable device

    gear sprinkler

    our recommendation
    Hunter I-20-04-SS Pop-up Sprinkler Ultra Stainless Steel Riser (formerly I-20 ADS Gear Sprinkler) withstands rough use in difficult soils - PROFESSIONAL GARDEN IRRIGATION
    36.47 EUR To the product

    Geared sprinklers, also known as pop-up sprinklers, are generally embedded in the garden soil. This means they are generally not visible. They only come out when the water is in use - fully automatically by the water pressure that is created when the tap is turned on.

    This type of installation has two enormous advantages that make gear sprinklers so popular: thanks to the tripod sunk into the ground, such a lawn sprinkler is stable and completely unobtrusive outside of operating hours.

    Speaking of uptime, when you turn on the faucet, effectively waking up the sprinkler, the head rises and spins in circles to accomplish that often-essential 360-degree irrigation criterion. As with other types of sprinklers, you can usually also set the desired sector.

    Digging up earth with a spade and laying a water line - the installation is undoubtedly the biggest disadvantage of a pop-up sprinkler. To prevent unwanted water loss, you must service the device regularly.

    Caution: If you want to pair multiple rotors without risking potentially harmful double sprinkling, it is essential to optimally coordinate the placement of the devices. Plan the whole thing thoroughly and precisely, because if you notice problems after the tedious act, the annoyance and the necessary additional work will be great. That means: think first, then act.

    Advantages and disadvantages at a glance:

    benefits
    • 360 degree irrigation
    • Sector can be narrowed down
    • stable thanks to tripod and countersink
    • noticeable
    disadvantage
    • Double irrigation possible when coupling several devices
    • relatively complex installation
    • regular maintenance required

    impact sprinkler

    our recommendation
    Vyrsa 07520550 MS circular sector sprinkler 3/4 inch AG (V60)
    36.95 EUR To the product

    Rocker sprinklers, also known as impact lever or impulse sprinklers, are mainly used in agriculture. You achieve enormous ranges.

    These lawn sprinklers spin in circles, emitting jet after jet. With the vast majority of models, you can set sector and range as you wish.

    Whether the impact sprinkler is installed with a ground spike or a tripod - both variants are easy to implement; they also ensure a high level of stability.

    Test reports and customer reviews show that impact lever sprinklers often work uncomfortably loud - the recurring impact noise is said to be quite annoying in the long run.

    Furthermore, the impulse sprinklers cannot be retracted, which can have a negative impact on the aesthetics, at least in the private garden.

    Due to the immense range, the risk of double irrigation is high, so exact positioning of coupled devices is essential.

    Advantages and disadvantages at a glance:

    benefits
    • high range
    • 360 degree irrigation
    • Sector can be narrowed down
    • easy installation and positioning
    • stable thanks to ground spike or tripod
    disadvantage
    • Double irrigation possible when coupling several devices
    • quite loud and unpleasant beating noise
    • may disturb the garden picture (private green oasis)

    large area sprinkler

    our recommendation
    Gardena Comfort Large Area Sprinkler AquaContour automatic: area irrigation for the individual watering of almost every garden contour, easy programming, range 2.5 - 10.5 m (8133-20)
    153.00 EUR To the product

    With a multi-area sprinkler, you can set different ranges and thus (have) every area in your garden watered - even (or especially) if your green oasis does not have a standardized shape (round or square), but is more angled.

    Large area sprinklers are electronically controlled and programmable. Depending on your specific (current) needs, set the sector and the range as well as the amount of water. These are comparatively large lawn sprinklers, which are usually attached using a ground spike.

    On the one hand, we have to mention the higher price due to the built-in electronics and, on the other hand, the quite pronounced maintenance effort. Repairs are also necessary more frequently than with other lawn sprinklers. The sprinklers are usually operated with batteries, the service life of which is limited.

    Installing and getting to know the many setting options is a bit more complicated. In addition, the large, non-retractable box can spoil the aesthetics of your green oasis.

    Note: Please note that coupling is often not possible with large-area sprinklers. The selected device must then cover the entire garden area.

    Advantages and disadvantages at a glance:

    benefits
    • electronically controlled
    • variable ranges
    • 360 degree irrigation
    • Sector plus range and water volume can be adjusted
    • stable thanks to ground spike
    disadvantage
    • higher purchase price
    • battery powered
    • usually no coupling of several devices possible
    • Installation and settings more complicated
    • disturbs the garden image
    • very high maintenance costs

    Extra: Lawn sprinkler with motion detector

    our recommendation
    Gardigo water jet animal repellent I motion detector I range 10 m I heron deterrent, cat deterrent
    EUR 44.90 To the product

    Lawn sprinklers with motion sensors prevent uninvited guests from damaging the lawn. For example, rooks are prevented from eating seeds. The principle is very simple: as soon as a crow sits on the lawn, the motion detector detects it. This automatically activates the lawn sprinkler so that the bird is sprayed wet and quickly driven away. It's the same with other invaders, of course…

    Summary: Which lawn sprinkler for which application?

    Circular sprinkler: for small, round gardens
    Square sprinkler: for rectangular or square lawns
    Spray sprinkler: for gentle watering of flowers and shrubs
    Impact sprinkler: for large garden areas
    Large area sprinkler: for "bulky" gardens
    Geared sprinkler (or other retractable variant): for gardeners who attach great importance to an aesthetic appearance

    Other purchase criteria

    The most important thing is that you choose a lawn sprinkler that suits your individual requirements - i.e. your garden. In the first place, it depends on the type. In this section we will tell you which other criteria play an elementary role when buying a sprinkler.

    Overview of the key points:

    • Range
    • range of functions
    • connection
    • material
    • foot/base

    Range

    our recommendation
    Relaxdays, irrigation of large areas up to 700 m², 15 m range, 360°, lawn sprinkler, green impulse sprinkler circular sprinkler
    EUR 14.90 To the product

    Depending on how large the area to be watered is, the lawn sprinkler should have a corresponding range. The coupling of several sprinklers may also be a good solution.

    tips

    You should not connect more than two to three sprinklers, otherwise the pressure may no longer be sufficient for all devices.

    range of functions

    It is advantageous if the lawn sprinkler has many functions. Ideally, you can adjust both sector and range as needed.

    connection

    Make sure the sprinkler connector fits the garden hose. In most cases it is a ½ or ¾ inch thread. Otherwise you have to buy an adapter - unnecessary extra costs.

    material

    Some lawn sprinklers are made of plastic. This material does not rust and is also relatively resistant to weather influences, dirt-repellent and easy to clean. Nevertheless, a sprinkler made of plastic usually breaks down faster than a lawn sprinkler made of metal.

    The latter is characterized by its robustness and high stability, but it also costs more. And: If the coating is damaged, rust can form.

    tips

    If you want to buy a plastic sprinkler, it is best to choose a model with a UV-resistant coating. This protects the device from damage caused by intense sunlight and increases its service life.

    foot/base

    our recommendation
    Adornlife Lawn Sprinkler Garden Sprinkler 360 Degree Rotating Long Reach Garden Sprinkler Adjustable Weighted Garden Irrigation System
    10.00 EUR To the product

    Ideally, the lawn sprinkler is equipped with a ground spike or tripod so that it is sufficiently stable and does not tip over, which could have unpleasant consequences (e.g. the sprinkler only waters one zone in the garden).

    Sprinklers that stand up, i.e. without a ground spike or tripod, should have an extra wide or heavy base in order to convince in terms of stability.

    What brands are there?

    Here are some recommended brands that offer lawn sprinklers at a glance:

    • Gardena
    • Karcher
    • Hunter
    • Greentek
    • bright way
    • lux
    • bradas
    • Green key
    • Melnor
    • toro
    • Neptune
    • garden line
    • Florabest (Lidl brand)

    You can buy lawn sprinklers in DIY stores and in popular mail order companies, sometimes also at discounters. Examples of sources of supply:

    • OBI
    • BAUHAUS
    • Hornbach
    • toom
    • Hagebau market
    • ALDI
    • Lidl
    • Amazon

    How do I maintain a lawn sprinkler?

    A lawn sprinkler should be cleaned regularly

    Lawn sprinklers are weather and dirt resistant. However, they need regular care to ensure a long service life. We summarize the most important points for you:

    • Dirt, grass or leaves can cause problems such as nozzle clogging. This in turn would possibly lead to the lawn sprinkler either not spreading water at all or leaking out and flooding the area around it, which does not do some plants too well.
    • Therefore our advice: Clean the outside of your lawn sprinkler at least every two weeks. You can simply remove coarse dirt with your bare hands and/or a damp cloth. For more stubborn dirt, it is best to use a little washing-up liquid - but only use it on the outer surfaces!
    • Check the connection between the lawn sprinkler and the water hose at least once a month.If you find deposits during your check (e.g. traces of lime), these must be removed. Make sure that you only use cleaning agents that are compatible with the respective material. If you do not remove the dirt, there may be a loss of water pressure performance.
    • Geared sprinklers require a lot of attention and are associated with a relatively high level of maintenance. They are powered by a turbine and wheels. In general, these elements made of plastic or metal are very robust. But various causes - from poor water quality to excessive pressure to normal wear and tear - can lead to problems. For example, if the gears do not move, the turbine is no longer driven either. To prevent such scenarios, you should regularly clean the filter or screen, which accumulates a lot of dirt and other particles over time.
    • Depending on the problem, it may help to replace the seals. It's a good thing that well-known manufacturers such as Gardena and Kärcher offer a large range of spare parts, including protective rubber covers and housing caps, so that the purchase of a completely new lawn sprinkler can often be avoided - provided your manual skills are sufficient to install the spare parts correctly .
    • Before you give the lawn sprinkler its well-deserved hibernation during the cold season, you need to clean it thoroughly and dry it in the sunlight. There must be no moisture inside to prevent the parts from rusting - rusting would render the sprinkler unusable. Store the lawn sprinkler in a dry place.
    • Of course, the manufacturers of lawn sprinklers always give model-specific care instructions. Read them in the user manual and be sure to follow the recommendations.

    Typical problems

    The lawn sprinkler no longer rotates? The water jet is not working properly?

    Such limitations generally occur when there is a lot of dirt inside, which, for example, clogs the nozzles or blocks the turbine.

    Solution: It is often sufficient to simply rinse the sprinkler thoroughly against the direction of flow. If you want to clear the nozzles, use a piece of wire, a sewing needle, or a nozzle needle from the manufacturer of your lawn sprinkler.

    Which accessories are useful?

    our recommendation
    Gardena Classic hose 13 mm (1/2 inch), 50 m: universal garden hose made of robust cross fabric, 22 bar bursting pressure, pressure and UV resistant (18010-20)
    35.00 EUR To the product

    You will need a garden hose to use a lawn sprinkler. If you want to irrigate with rainwater, it is best to collect it in a practical rain barrel. Some tripods and ground spikes are also available as accessories.

    frequently asked Questions

    What is a lawn sprinkler?

    A lawn sprinkler is a useful irrigation tool for the garden. To use the sprinkler, all you need is a water tap and a garden hose.

    How does a lawn sprinkler work?

    How a lawn sprinkler works is simple and logical: you first have to attach a water hose to a water supply line. After that, connect the hose to the sprinkler.

    As soon as you activate the water supply, the water flows through the hose into the sprinkler. There it runs through a gearbox. It then reaches the nozzles attached to the sprinkler head, which ultimately ensure that the area is irrigated.

    tips

    Almost all lawn sprinklers require a minimum water pressure of two bar to ensure that the water penetrates to the device and also achieves the desired range.

    Who Benefits from a Lawn Sprinkler?

    Every owner of a garden or a larger lawn who is looking for the most convenient way to water the lawn is well advised to use a lawn sprinkler.

    How do I properly water the lawn?

    • water as soon as it appears greyish, not when it has already slightly withered
    • Adapt the amount of water to the type of soil, temperature and humidity - neither overdo nor underdo it; check the amount with a rain gauge, flow meter, glass or spade - water should penetrate about 15 centimeters into the soil (roots)
    • water in the morning or evening, not at midday (sun ensures rapid evaporation)
    • water only two to three times a week (“harden up” for periods of drought)
    • water evenly, avoid puddles
    • Give plants near trees more water (tree roots demand some moisture, blades of grass get less)
    • do not water after a summer rain or thunderstorm
    • never water after weeding (would encourage new weed growth)

    How much does a lawn sprinkler cost?

    Solid lawn sprinklers are sometimes available from around six euros. Even professional lawn sprinklers don't cost the earth. First-class devices from Gardena and Co. are already available from 15 to 20 euros.

    Is there a lawn sprinkler comparison by Stiftung Warentest?

    The last lawn sprinkler test by Stiftung Warentest dates back to 1966 and is therefore anything but meaningful.

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