Spray sprinkler bodies earn WaterSense label

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency finalized a WaterSense specification to label water-saving spray sprinkler bodies to combat outdoor water waste that occurs when irrigation systems experience high water pressure. WaterSense is a partnership program sponsored by the EPA, which seeks to protect the future of the nation’s water supply by offering water-efficient products.

Landscape irrigation sprinklers are often installed in residential or light commercial settings where the system pressure is higher than what is recommended for the sprinkler nozzle. Optimal pressure for most spray sprinkler nozzles is 30 psi. Many spray sprinklers installed in the U.S. operate with water pressures greater than 30 psi, with some at water pressures of 60 psi or higher. Operating at pressures higher than the optimal level can cause excessive water flow, misting, fogging and uneven irrigation coverage, which wastes water and leads to unhealthy landscapes.

WaterSense-labeled spray sprinkler bodies with integral pressure regulation help the nozzle generate appropriate water droplet size and provide a consistent flow rate across a range of inlet pressures. In addition, WaterSense-labeled irrigation controllers use local weather conditions to determine when and how much to irrigate a landscape. By watering only when needed at optimal pressure, these two items work in tandem to maximize water savings.

Manufacturers of spray sprinkler bodies can partner with WaterSense and have their products tested and certified to earn the WaterSense label. Home and building owners should be able to purchase them by the end of the year to help improve water efficiency in their landscape irrigation systems. For more information, visit the WaterSense website.