How to Adjust a Pop-Up Sprinkler Head

A pop-up sprinkler head is one of the most common used for lawn irrigation. As the name implies, the head of the sprinkler rises or pops up out of the ground when water pressure is added. Adjusting a pop-up sprinkler head is not a difficult task.

Adjusting the Spray Pattern

Pop-up sprinklers have a spray adjustment screw located on the top of the spray head. With the sprinkler turned on, use a small flat-head screwdriver to turn the adjustment screw. Turning the screw counterclockwise will widen the spray pattern and increase the amount of water discharged from the head. Turning the adjustment screw clockwise will decrease the spray pattern and water emitted.

Adjusting the Angle

Unless your pop-sprinkler has an adjustable head that can change the spray degree (from 90 degrees to 180, 270 or 360 degrees), you need to turn the entire body of the sprinkler to get the correct spray angle. If your sprinkler is recessed in the ground, use a shovel to dig around it. Now turn the water on. Grab the sprinkler body and turn it until the water sprays in the desired area. Use caution not to overturn the sprinkler, as you can break the riser pipe underneath.