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Michael Haynes

In this online video course, the latest in our Irrigation 101 Series, you'll be introduced to every major category of sprinkler head that you could encounter on a residential or light commercial property. We'll cover all the relevant concepts such as Matched Precipitation Rates and Head to Head Coverage. Then, we'll drill down into specific product knowledge, discussing and demonstrating adjustment on all the major models in production, as well as some favorites from the past that you will still see in the field. There's a 28 page download with fill-in-the-blanks for greater learning and retention. When you complete the course you'll have an extensive knowledge of: Rotors, and how to replace, adjust, select, and clean out. We'll go through each major manufacturer and drill down into details about the entry level models up to choices for light commercial systems, with differences in available features and options for each. You'll also have intimate knowledge in Spray Heads, also known as pop-ups. We'll discuss features like pressure regulating stems, check valves, and features on the different sizes available on the market. The spray nozzle is just as important as the spray head, so we'll go through different product families and their options like matched precipitation rates, variable arc nozzles, and fixed pattern nozzles. Then we'll cover Rotator Nozzles which are nozzles that have a lower precipitation rate that's usually matched to the Rotors from the manufacturer. We'll also touch on some helpful tools for working on sprinklers.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn the principals and concepts that go into selecting the correct sprinkler head and nozzle.
  • Watch hands-on demonstrations of adjusting, flushing, replacing every kind of sprinkler head.
  • Understand how to easily match precipitation rates across a sprinkler system.

Syllabus

Matching the Precipitation Rates of heads in a zone (or in any given area) is critical to achieving an even amount of water to all places. If not, there will wet or dry spots and uneven growth, health, and color in the landscape plants or turf.

Read more

The performance Charts supplied by the manufacturer will tell you all you need to know to make the proper selection of sprinkler and nozzle. There you will find the radius range, the arc adjustment range, the flow for a range of inlet pressures and the Precipitation Rates in square or triangular formation.

A quick word about a few features of the Udemy video player that may help your learning experience.

In this lesson, you will be introduced to the major forms of sprinkler heads. We'll briefly touch on Impact Rotors, Gear-Driven Rotors in all the sizes and configurations, including Shrub Rotor and Mini-Rotor, Sprays, and Rotator Nozzles for spray bodies.

We'll cover the 3 main ways to connect sprinkler heads to their supply pipe, Flex-piped, Hard-piped, and Swing Joint.

A thorough understanding of the concept of Precipitation Rates is critical to sprinkler systems in general, but very specific to the selection of sprinkler heads and nozzle sizes.

A quick explanation of a vital concept in irrigation system design.

In irrigation system design, you have a choice of two configurations, square or triangular. I'll briefly discuss both methods.

In this lesson, we'll briefly discuss Impact Sprinkler Heads, then dive deep into a specific product called the Maxi-Paw later in this Section.

We'll discuss the major sprinkler category of Gear Driven Rotors, and their close family, the Shrub rotor and Mini-Rotor. This is the dominant category of sprinkler heads for turf.

A knowledge of all the different options available on sprinkler heads will allow you to choose the best product for each application.

There are 4 ways that one can adjust a sprinkler head. These adjustment factors also apply to Sprays.

I'll explain the four step process that I use to quickly and efficiently adjust a sprinkler head.

We'll compare features on three of the incredibly popular products from Hunter Industries aimed at Residential and Light Commercial sprinkler systems.

An introduction to the unique features of the RPS Select sprinkler.

We'll touch on the features and adjustment factors of this ubiquitous sprinkler.

An in-depth look on a very popular product line from Rain Bird. We'll compare the base model 5000 and the 5000+.

A quick discussion of adjusting this older discontinued sprinkler.

We'll cover both versions of Rain Bird's enclosed Impact Sprinkler product.

I'll walk you through the Toro Super 800, a super tough and durable Rotor that you will continue to see in the field for many years.

I'll break down the features and give instructions for the RapidSet feature on this solid, unique Rotor.

A 1 minute tool tip about using a dental pic to help adjust sprinklers.

We'll cover some basic information on the major sprinkler category of Sprays.

A brief look at the many available options for the Spray body.

A thorough breakdown of the Spray nozzle. We'll discuss all of the categories of nozzle families, MPR or not, Adjustable Arc or Fixed, Specialty rectangular nozzles like the Side Strip. The top 5 manufacturer's products will be briefly touched upon to give an exposure to all the products commonly available.

A continuation of the brief description of all the nozzle families available from the top 5 companies.

1 minute tool tip on the most productive tool for spray heads.

A brief discussion of the newest entry to the landscape irrigation market, the Rotator Nozzle for Spray bodies.

I'll give technical data, adjustment instructions and general commentary on this fantastic product line.

We'll cover both families of Rotator Nozzles from K-Rain

I'll take you through a breakdown of Rain Bird's two lines of Rotator nozzles.

We'll take a good look at Toro's line of Rotator nozzles

A quick look at Pro Irrigation Training's resources for the Student.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides hands-on demonstrations of adjusting, flushing, and replacing various kinds of sprinkler heads, which is essential for maintaining irrigation systems
Explores matched precipitation rates, which is critical for ensuring even water distribution and preventing dry spots in landscapes
Examines sprinkler performance charts, which are vital for selecting the proper sprinkler and nozzle based on radius, arc, and flow
Covers various connection methods like flex-piped, hard-piped, and swing joint, which are important for installing and maintaining sprinkler systems
Features older models alongside newer ones, which is helpful for technicians who encounter a variety of systems in the field
Includes a downloadable resource with fill-in-the-blanks, which may help learners retain information about sprinkler systems

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Reviews summary

Hands-on guide to sprinkler heads

According to learners, this course provides a highly practical and detailed overview of common sprinkler heads and nozzles used in residential and light commercial irrigation. Students particularly praise the numerous hands-on demonstrations covering adjustment, repair, and selection across major manufacturers like Hunter, Rain Bird, and Toro. The course is seen as excellent for beginners or those needing a refresher on specific products. While some reviewers might seek deeper theoretical design principles, the focus on specific product knowledge and practical application is consistently highlighted as a major strength.
Downloadable material aids learning and retention.
"The downloadable fill-in-the-blanks workbook was a useful addition."
"Having the workbook helped reinforce the information presented in the videos."
"I appreciated the extra resource to help track the details covered in the course."
Offers a strong foundation for new technicians.
"As someone just starting out in irrigation, this course gave me a great foundation."
"Perfect '101' course. It covered all the basics I needed to know about different heads."
"Recommended for anyone new to the trade or just trying to understand their home system."
"It clarified many things I only partially understood before starting my apprenticeship."
Explains key concepts like precipitation rates.
"Understanding matched precipitation rates and head-to-head coverage was made very clear."
"The explanations of why these concepts are important for even watering are solid."
"I finally understand how to properly use the manufacturer performance charts."
"The section on precipitation rates was crucial and well explained."
Detailed look at heads from top manufacturers.
"Great coverage of Hunter, Rain Bird, and Toro heads. Exactly what I encounter most often."
"Knowing the specific models and their quirks from different brands is very useful in my job."
"The module detailing products from the top 5 manufacturers gave me the product knowledge I needed."
"It's helpful that they cover both current models and older favorites still seen in the field."
Shows how to adjust and repair heads with clear demos.
"The hands-on demonstrations for adjusting and replacing different sprinkler heads were incredibly helpful."
"I really appreciated seeing how to work on the specific models mentioned, the demos make it easy to follow."
"The course content showing the actual adjustments and repairs is very practical for field work."
"I found the step-by-step demos on common issues and fixes to be the most valuable part."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Irrigation 101: All About Sprinkler Heads with these activities:
Review Basic Hydraulics
Reviewing basic hydraulics will help you understand the principles behind water pressure and flow, which are essential for selecting the right sprinkler heads and nozzles.
Browse courses on Hydraulics
Show steps
  • Review the concepts of pressure, flow rate, and friction loss.
  • Practice calculating flow rates and pressure drops in simple pipe systems.
Read 'Irrigation: Theory and Practice'
Reading this book will provide a deeper understanding of irrigation principles and practices, enhancing your ability to select and manage sprinkler systems effectively.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to sprinkler irrigation and hydraulics.
  • Take notes on key concepts and formulas.
Sprinkler Head Performance Chart Exercises
Practicing with sprinkler head performance charts will improve your ability to select the right heads and nozzles for specific applications.
Show steps
  • Obtain performance charts from various sprinkler head manufacturers.
  • Calculate precipitation rates for different sprinkler head configurations.
  • Determine the optimal spacing for sprinkler heads based on their performance characteristics.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Review 'Modern Agricultural Irrigation'
Reviewing this book will broaden your understanding of irrigation technologies and practices, providing valuable insights for optimizing sprinkler system performance.
View Alter Ego: A Novel on Amazon
Show steps
  • Focus on chapters related to sprinkler irrigation design and water management.
  • Compare the information presented in the book with the concepts covered in the course.
Create a Sprinkler Head Comparison Chart
Creating a comparison chart will help you solidify your understanding of the different features and options available on various sprinkler heads.
Show steps
  • Research different sprinkler head models from various manufacturers.
  • Create a spreadsheet or table comparing features such as flow rate, pressure range, and spray pattern.
  • Write a brief summary of the advantages and disadvantages of each sprinkler head model.
Assist with Sprinkler System Maintenance at a Local Park
Volunteering will provide hands-on experience with sprinkler system maintenance and repair, reinforcing your understanding of the concepts covered in the course.
Show steps
  • Contact a local park or community organization to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Assist with tasks such as sprinkler head replacement, nozzle adjustment, and pipe repair.
  • Observe experienced professionals and ask questions to learn more about sprinkler system maintenance.
Design a Sprinkler System for a Small Yard
Designing a sprinkler system will allow you to apply the knowledge you've gained in the course to a real-world scenario.
Show steps
  • Measure the dimensions of the yard and identify any obstacles.
  • Select appropriate sprinkler heads and nozzles based on the yard's shape and size.
  • Create a layout of the sprinkler system, including pipe routing and sprinkler head placement.
  • Calculate the total water flow required for the system.

Career center

Learners who complete Irrigation 101: All About Sprinkler Heads will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Irrigation Technician
An irrigation technician installs, maintains, and repairs irrigation systems. A course focusing on sprinkler heads directly translates to this role, as a significant portion of the job involves understanding different types of sprinkler heads, their functionalities, and how to adjust or replace them. This course helps build a strong foundation in the practical aspects of sprinkler systems, covering topics such as matched precipitation rates, head-to-head coverage, and specific product knowledge. For an aspiring irrigation technician, the hands-on demonstrations of adjusting, flushing, and replacing sprinkler heads featured in this course makes it a valuable step towards a career in irrigation.
Landscape Designer
Landscape designers create aesthetically pleasing and functional outdoor spaces, often incorporating irrigation systems into their designs. A deep understanding of sprinkler heads, as emphasized in this course, helps landscape designers to select the right products for specific applications and ensure efficient water use. This course covers critical concepts like precipitation rates and head-to-head coverage, empowering a landscape designer to make informed decisions regarding irrigation system design. By learning about the features and options available on rotors and spray bodies, landscape designers can optimize their designs for both beauty and functionality. Those interested in landscape design should take this course to better understand how irrigation methods integrate into their work.
Golf Course Superintendent
A golf course superintendent oversees the maintenance and upkeep of a golf course, including its irrigation system. Given that efficient irrigation is essential for maintaining healthy turf, a thorough understanding of sprinkler heads becomes paramount. This course provides the knowledge necessary to select, adjust, and maintain sprinkler heads, ensuring uniform water distribution and preventing dry spots on the course. The course's coverage of different rotor types, spray heads, and rotator nozzles, along with demonstrations of adjustment and repair techniques, makes it a valuable resource for current and aspiring golf course superintendents.
Groundskeeper
Groundskeepers maintain the grounds of various properties, including parks, schools, and sports fields. Irrigation systems are an integral part of maintaining healthy turf and landscapes, making knowledge of sprinkler heads essential for a groundskeeper. This course helps groundskeepers to identify different types of sprinkler heads, understand their functionalities, and perform basic maintenance and repairs. An aspiring groundskeeper may find the hands-on demonstrations of adjusting, flushing, and replacing sprinkler heads particularly beneficial.
Agricultural Technician
Agricultural technicians assist farmers and agricultural specialists in various tasks, including irrigation management. As irrigation is crucial for crop production, a solid understanding of sprinkler heads can be immensely valuable. This course offers insights into the principles behind selecting and adjusting sprinkler heads and nozzles, helping agricultural technicians optimize water usage and promote healthy crop growth. The course specifically discusses how to match precipitation rates across a sprinkler system, and this is directly relevant to achieving uniform crop growth with an agricultural technician.
Water Conservation Specialist
Water conservation specialists promote water-efficient practices in various settings. Given that irrigation is a major water user, a solid understanding of sprinkler heads is relevant to this career. This course helps water conservation specialists understand how to optimize sprinkler systems for water efficiency by selecting appropriate heads and nozzles, matching precipitation rates, and minimizing water waste. Water conservation specialists might take this course to better promote their goal of conserving water.
Irrigation Consultant
Irrigation consultants provide expert advice on irrigation system design, installation, and management. A deep understanding of sprinkler heads is essential to this role, as it informs recommendations for system selection and optimization. This course's comprehensive coverage of sprinkler head types, features, and adjustment techniques provides an irrigation consultant with the knowledge necessary to make informed recommendations. The details about precipitation rates from all the major manufacturers will be particularly useful to one in the role of irrigation consultant.
Horticultural Technician
Horticultural technicians work in plant nurseries, greenhouses, and gardens, assisting with plant care and maintenance. Proper irrigation is crucial for plant health, making a understanding of sprinkler heads really helpful. Knowing more about irrigation systems will help a horticultural technician know how to best keep plants healthy. This course may help horticultural technicians know more about the sprinkler systems that are commonly used in their line of work.
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability managers develop and implement strategies to reduce environmental impact in organizations. Since water usage is a key aspect of environmental sustainability, a fundamental course on sprinkler heads may provide insights into optimizing irrigation systems for water conservation. This course may provide some knowledge about precipitation rates and selecting the correct sprinkler head and nozzle that may be helpful to sustainability managers.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental engineers develop solutions to environmental problems, which may include water resource management. While not directly focused on engineering principles, this course may familiarize environmental engineers with the practical aspects of irrigation systems and could provide a basic understanding of sprinkler technology and water distribution. Those who are environmental engineers might consider this course to learn more about water distribution.
Civil Engineer
Civil engineers design and oversee the construction of infrastructure projects, including water distribution systems. Though this course does not delve into the complexities of large-scale water systems, it may provide a basic understanding of sprinkler head operation and design. This course may be helpful to civil engineers as it offers the foundations of irrigation systems.
Project Manager
Project managers oversee the planning, execution, and completion of various projects. In projects involving landscaping or irrigation system installation, knowledge of sprinkler heads can be beneficial. This course may allow a project manager to acquire a foundational understanding of sprinkler technology and the considerations involved in selecting and installing appropriate systems. This course may be useful to project managers as it provides a basic skillset within the world of irrigation.
Purchasing Manager
Purchasing managers are responsible for sourcing and procuring goods and services for an organization. When purchasing irrigation equipment and supplies, a general knowledge of sprinkler heads can be helpful for making informed decisions. This course may provide a foundation for understanding the different types of sprinkler heads available, their features, and their applications. The course may be helpful to purchasing managers seeking a fundamental understanding of different systems.
Real Estate Manager
Real estate managers oversee the maintenance and operation of properties. Understanding the basics of irrigation systems, including sprinkler heads, can be useful for managing landscaping and outdoor spaces. This course may provide a real estate manager with a basic overview of sprinkler technology and maintenance. Real estate managers may benefit from this course to know better the irrigation systems on their properties.
Home Inspector
Home inspectors evaluate the condition of residential properties, including their irrigation systems. While this course focuses specifically on sprinkler heads, the course may introduce the different components of an irrigation system. This course may be useful to home inspectors seeking an introduction to the world of irrigation systems.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Irrigation 101: All About Sprinkler Heads.
Provides a comprehensive overview of irrigation principles, design, and management practices. It covers various irrigation methods, including sprinkler systems, and delves into the theory behind water distribution and application. It would be helpful for understanding the underlying principles of irrigation system design and performance, providing a strong theoretical foundation for the practical aspects covered in the course. This book valuable reference for those seeking a deeper understanding of irrigation science.
Provides a detailed overview of modern irrigation technologies and practices used in agriculture. It covers topics such as sprinkler system design, water management, and irrigation scheduling. While geared towards agricultural applications, the fundamental principles discussed are highly relevant to residential and light commercial irrigation systems. This book is more valuable as additional reading to expand knowledge.

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