Your Complete Guide to Lawn Sprinkler Heads

Sprinkler heads are the most visible part of any irrigation system, but they’re only one small part of how your sprinkler system delivers water to your lawn and landscape. Whether you’re trying to identify a sprinkler head, diagnose a problem, replace a broken head, or choose the right replacement, this guide will help you find the answer.

If you’re not sure where to start, choose the option below that best matches your situation.

I’m Having a Problem

My sprinkler head won’t pop up

One or more sprinkler heads stay below the ground while the rest of the zone works normally.

→ Read: Why Won’t My Sprinkler Head Pop Up?

My sprinkler head is clogged

Your sprinkler head pops up but doesn’t spray correctly, sprays weakly, or doesn’t spray at all.

→ Read: Why Are My Sprinkler Heads Clogged?

My sprinkler head won’t rotate

Rotor heads stop turning or only spray in one direction.

→ Read: Sprinkler Head Won’t Rotate

My sprinkler head is leaking

Water continues leaking after the system shuts off or bubbles around the base.

→ Read: Why Is My Sprinkler Head Leaking?

My sprinkler head sprays sideways

The spray pattern is uneven or shooting across the sidewalk or street.

→ Read: Why Is My Sprinkler Head Spraying Sideways?

My sprinkler head has low pressure

The sprinkler pops up but doesn’t spray far enough.

→ Read: Sprinkler Head Has Low Pressure

I Want to Repair Something

How to Replace a Sprinkler Head
How to Replace a Nozzle
How to Adjust a Spray Head
How to Adjust a Rotor Head
How to Flush an Irrigation System
How to Replace a Swing Joint

Learn About Sprinkler Heads

Not sure what a part is?

Read our irrigation encyclopedia.

What Is a Sprinkler Head?
What Is a Spray Head?
What Is a Rotor?
What Is a Nozzle?
What Is a Swing Joint?
What Is a Riser?
What Is a Filter?
What Is Water Pressure?

Buying Guides

Best Sprinkler Heads for Florida Lawns
Hunter vs. Rain Bird Sprinkler Heads
Rotor vs. Spray Heads
Which Sprinkler Head Should I Buy?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a spray head and a rotor?

Spray heads apply water in a fixed pattern and are typically used in smaller lawn areas. Rotor heads rotate while watering, allowing them to cover much larger areas more efficiently.

→ Learn more: Spray Heads vs. Rotor Heads

How long do sprinkler heads last?

Most quality sprinkler heads last between 10 and 20 years, although nozzles, seals, and internal components may require replacement sooner depending on water quality, usage, and lawn conditions.

Can I replace a sprinkler head myself?

Many homeowners can replace a sprinkler head using basic hand tools, provided the replacement matches the existing system. More complex problems may involve valves, wiring, water pressure, or underground piping.

Why do sprinkler heads stop working?

A sprinkler head may stop working because of debris, damaged nozzles, low water pressure, valve problems, broken pipes, or normal wear over time. Identifying the underlying cause is the first step toward the correct repair.