Maintaining a fresh, green lawn or garden can be challenging. Ace Hardware’s selection of in-ground sprinklers takes the guesswork out of maintaining your yard and can help you save time, water and money. Learn how to choose the best underground sprinklers for your lawn or garden.
How Does an Underground Sprinkler System Work?
An underground sprinkler system is installed beneath your lawn, with buried pipes carrying water to pop-up sprinklers that distribute it in various patterns. The system connects to the main water supply and many operate automatically, successfully controlling the flow of water by cycling through different zones at scheduled times for complete coverage. Timers allow for easy programming, making it a convenient choice for landscaping and gardening.
You can combine in-ground sprinklers with drip irrigation tubing to distribute water directly to the roots of your plants or trees.
What Are the Benefits of Pop-Up Sprinklers?
An underground sprinkler system uses pop-up sprinklers, which remain hidden in-ground when not in use. When activated, they pop up to distribute water and then retract back into the ground. This offers several benefits, including efficient water distribution, reduced manual labor and improved plant health. Unlike above-ground sprinklers, underground systems are less obtrusive and likely won't interfere with mowing or landscaping. They also help conserve water by targeting specific areas and reducing evaporation.
Types of In-Ground Sprinkler Heads
There are several types of in-ground sprinkler heads you can integrate with your irrigation system, including:
- Rotor sprinklers: These gear-driven rotor sprinkler heads slowly rotate while dispersing large amounts of water to cover broad areas. They provide even water distribution and are great for newly fertilized lawns and grass seed.
- Fixed sprinklers: These sprinklers have a stationary spray pattern and are best for small, specific areas that need consistent watering.
- Shrub sprinkler heads: Designed for watering shrubs and garden beds, these heads are mounted on risers to elevate the spray above the plants.
- Impact sprinklers: These spring-loaded pop-up lawn sprinklers deliver a powerful stream of water pressure in a circular pattern using durable, sturdy arms. They provide large amounts of water, making them a common choice for public areas like athletic fields and golf courses.
In-Ground Sprinkler Spray Patterns
In-ground sprinkler heads come with various spray patterns to suit different watering needs, including:
- Adjustable sprinkler heads: Allows you to customize the spray pattern, making it perfect for irregularly shaped areas or when you need flexibility.
- Full circle sprinkler heads: Provides 360-degree coverage, ideal for large, open areas like lawns.
- Half circle sprinkler heads: Covers a 180-degree area, making them suitable for medium-sized lawns and garden beds along edges.
- Quarter circle sprinkler heads: Covers a 90-degree area.
- Center strip sprinkler heads: Ideal for narrow, rectangular areas, such as garden paths and borders.
- End strip sprinkler heads: Perfect for the ends of rectangular areas, they ensure full coverage for corners and edges.
- Side strip sprinkler heads: Suitable for the sides of rectangular areas, like garden beds and lawns along fences.
You can find replacement nozzles at Ace to upgrade your existing system.
Shop Underground Sprinkler Systems Near You at Ace
Keep your yard lush and healthy with the right in-ground sprinklers near you at Ace Hardware. You can also explore our inventory online for options from Orbit, Rain Bird and others, selecting fast delivery or free in-store pickup. Then, check out our collection of underground sprinkler accessories to make the most of your new sprinkler system.
