Are you looking to irrigate your Garden or field?
If you are searching to set up rain gun sprinkler for automated irrigation, then this article will guide you through selecting and setting up your system.
Without losing time, let’s get into it!
What is a Rain Gun Sprinkler System?
A rain gun sprinkler system is an efficient irrigation solution that uses powerful heads to water large areas, typically lawns or gardens over a half-acre in size.
A rain gun is a type of sprinkler irrigation system that sprinkles water on plants.
The rain gun heads, also known as impact sprinklers, operate at higher water pressures than other sprinkler types, usually between 30 and 80 psi.
This relatively high pressure allows the heads to distribute water over longer distances than traditional systems, with ranges spanning 30 to over 100 feet, depending on the specific head model.
An automatic digital timer controls electric valves to manage the watering schedule according to customized programs.
Additional smaller parts, such as connector fittings, adapters, and caps, join all the pieces together safely and effectively for the overall efficient functioning of the rain gun irrigation system.
Types of Rain Gun Sprinklers Irrigation System
There are a few main types of rain guns to consider:
Large Gear Drive Sprinklers are durable and ideal for watering large areas quickly with high water pressure. These typically have a range of 50–100 feet.
Impact rain guns are an inexpensive option good for smaller yards and gardens. These rotate slowly with a range of 30–50 feet.
Oscillating sprinklers are known for their back-and-forth motion, making them ideal for rectangular-shaped yards. The range is usually 30–75 feet.
Parts of a Rain Gun Irrigation System
The main components of a rain gun system include:
Rain Gun Heads
The primary component, these overhead sprinkler nozzles, are designed to withstand high water pressures.
Fan-shaped spray patterns cover large areas, with ranges of typically 30–100 feet.
Durable materials like plastic or metal withstand weathering.
Risers
- Vertical pipes that elevate the heads above ground level.
- Allow for proper head positioning over the watering area at recommended spacings.
- Nipples attached to the top connect the heads securely to the risers.
Water Supply Line
- Main underground pipe that transports water from its source (hose bib, irrigation well) to the system components.
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) piping is a common durable material for withstanding pressure.
Isolation Valves
- Installed below ground along supply lines and sprinkler zones.
- Permit individual on/off control of water flow to sections of heads.
Backflow Preventer (optional)
- Installed on the main water feed line as a cross-connection control device.
- Prevents contaminated water from flowing back into the domestic supply of water.
Timer
- Automatic controller programmed to operate electric remote control valves.
- Allows customized watering schedules by date and time.
Fittings
- Accessory pieces like tees, elbows, and unions connect all system pipes and components.
Benefits of a Raingun Sprinkler System
This system provides a number of advantages over traditional underground flood irrigation systems, including:
Simulates Natural Rainfall
The mist-like dispersion of water mimics the feel and effectiveness of rainfall, helping lawns and gardens thrive. Unlike other this cannot water during windy conditions, rain guns are less impacted by breezes.
Covers Large Areas Efficiently
Because of their trajectory and overlapping spray patterns, rain guns can water expansive rectangular turf areas and irregularly shaped land with uniform coverage and fewer sprinklers required than other types. This saves money on installation and parts.
Reduces Water Usage
Due to their precise application method that minimizes runoff and overspray, rain guns maximize the amount of water absorbed by the soil rather than lost to evaporation. Less waste means lower water bills.
Customizable Coverage
The spray range and radius of rain guns can be personalized using different head styles and water pressures. This allows for customized coverage of any lawn or field space.
Maintenance
Beyond routine inspections, rain guns require little maintenance compared to underground pop-up sprinklers, which can experience clogs. The open-air design stays clean with natural flushing from each watering cycle.
Lawn Size and Layout
Rain guns are best suited for large rectangular lawns over 5,000 square feet or irregular areas that other sprinklers cannot reach as effectively. Smaller yards may not need the coverage radius rain guns provide.
Water Supply and Pressure
Adequate water supply volume and pressure level are required to enable rain guns to shoot water high into the air as designed. At least 45 psi is recommended for most sprinklers to function properly.
For fertilizers and pesticides, rain guns can be used.
Budget
Though less expensive than drip irrigation in the long run due to water savings, rain guns usually require more substantial initial installation costs. Pipes, fittings, and sprinklers can carry higher price tags than standard pop-up sprinklers.
Plants and the Soil
Sandy, well-draining soil is ideal, as rain guns are not ideal for soggy areas prone to puddling and runoff. Some fragile plants may not tolerate the higher impact of rainfall-like water flow compared to gentler overhead lawn sprinklers.
How to Plan and Use Rain Gun Sprinkler System
Proper planning is essential before setting up any sprinkler system to ensure it provides full coverage. Here are some key steps:
Measure Your Lawn
Begin by measuring the length and width of your lawn and landscape areas to install the right number and type of rain guns.
Identify Problem Areas
Make a diagram indicating slope gradients that may need a change in radius or trajectory to prevent dry spots or runoff. Mark existing irrigation zones, if applicable.
Map Out Sprinkler Placement
Using your measurements and diagram, position rain gun locations on a layout to provide overlapping circular patterns with no dry areas between. Allow 5–10 feet around structures.
Consider Ongoing Maintenance
Positioning these near hose bibs or perimeter walls assists future repairs. Consider draining needs in the winter. Leave access paths for seasonal maintenance tasks.
Test Layout
Set up a mock system using flags or spray paint to visualize your layout before installing. Make adjustments as needed to refine spacing for 100% coverage.
Equipment Needed to Install a Rain Gun
In addition to the rain guns themselves, several core irrigation equipment are needed to power the system:
Rain Gun Sprinklers
It is a portable installation. These range in diameter from 4-12 inches and precipitation rates from 3-30 inches per hour. Larger sprinklers provide wider coverage but require higher pressure. This can cover the entire farm by moving its direction. Long-range sprinklers can cover up to 4 hectares of land.
Backflow Preventer
Commonly a double check valve assembly is used to protect the waterline from contamination backflows.
Sprinkler Heads
Choose multi-stream, single-stream, or rotary nozzles. Higher streams travel farther, but drier soil may require a lower height adjustment.
Valves and Timers
Usually in a remote cabinet to switch zones on/off. Digital timers vary watering duration and frequency according to weather and soil type.
Hoses and Pipes
PVC pipes connect zones to valves. Join a couple sections. Fit pipes or hoses should serve the ground at an appropriate depth.
Installation Tools
Turf staples hold plastic pipes securely. Ductile iron clamping rings prevent head separation. Trenchers facilitate excavation for pipes below the frost line.
Installation Steps
With planning and materials in hand, it’s time to install this system:
Assemble Equipment
Use this time to familiarize yourself with components like rain gun parts and how valves and timings function.
Install Backflow Preventer
As local codes require, have this installed near the water source by a licensed professional before system construction begins.
Lay Pipes and Attach Sprinklers
Begin laying out PVC main and lateral lines using trenching tools. Slide pipes into stabilizing holes at the proper depth before refilling. Snap rain gun bodies onto riser nipples and secure with couplings.
Connect Water Supply
Attach the main waterline to the backflow preventer inlet and route it to the valve assembly location. Use pipe joining glue on all solvent-weld joints.
Program Timer and Test System
Set schedules, adjust valves, and test each zone operation one at a time to ensure proper rain gun coverage and balance water pressure across the entire system.
Adjust Sprinklers for Coverage
Fine-tune one rain gun angle or radius as needed to eliminate dry spots. Re-test after adjustments to confirm full coverage.
Maintaining Your Rain Gun System
With regular care, your high-quality rain gun system will run efficiently for years.
Winterizing Pipes
Before hard frosts arrive, blow residual water from pipes with compressed air. Leave the system drained to prevent rupturing during freezing weather.
Checking for Leaks
Inspect pipes and connections for drips each spring and periodically through the season, repairing promptly to avoid soggy spots.
Adjusting Sprinkler Heads
Over time, wear may shift positioning. Ensure even coverage across the entire lawn by testing and readjusting head angles as needed.
Cleaning Rain Gun Nozzles
Any debris buildup from nearby trees can disrupt spray pattern quality. Remove screens and wash nozzles during fall cleanup.
Replacing Worn Parts
Missing or damaged sprinkler parts will detrimentally impact performance if not replaced right away. Keep spares handy for quick repairs.
With such low maintenance requirements, a rain gun system provides years of carefree lawn care, leaving you more time to enjoy it! Contact an irrigation specialist with any issues before they become expensive problems.
FAQs
Q. How much water pressure do I need?
A. Most systems require a minimum of 45–60 psi. Use a pressure gauge at the hose bib to check. A well or booster pump may be needed if low pressure is present.
Q. Can I water plants on a hill?
A. Yes, rain guns can effectively handle sloped lawns when properly installed at the right heights and aiming down the gradient. An adjustment may be needed.
Q. Will it cover my whole lawn?
A. Proper planning and spacing of rain guns sized according to your lawn dimensions should provide blanket coverage without dry spots. Test first before irrigation.
Q. What size rain gun should I use?
A. Consider lawn size measured in square feet and water pressure availability. Larger sprinklers have wider coverage but need higher pressure to reach and may not suit small zones.
Q. How do I adjust the trajectory angle?
A. Most models have a lateral swing adjustment screw, wheel, or selector dial below the nozzle to change the lateral aim left or right. Elevation is also adjustable to raise or lower the stream.
Conclusion
The use of a rain gun sprinkler is one of the commonest irrigation methods and is mainly used for irrigating farms by moving the system.
Setting up a rain gun system takes careful planning and proper installation for reliable performance season after season.
From choosing sprinklers, preparing your soil and yard space, and installing risers and pipes, learning the basics of rain gun setup ensures your finished system provides complete irrigation coverage.
Make sure to test for even distribution once the setup is complete.
The versatility of a rain gun in distributing large volumes of water makes investing in an installed system worthwhile. You can water a crop range of 10 acres using rain gun irrigation.
Gaining a clear understanding of selecting components, preparing your grounds, and installation methods ahead of time guarantees steady enjoyment from automated irrigation without fail.
Proper planning, installation, and seasonal care when setting up this system leaves you to relax knowing your yard’s moisture needs are met for years to come.
