| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Rotary and impact sprinkler heads |
Covers a large area with few heads, so the initial cost is low Applies water at a relatively low rate, which is particularly beneficial for tight soils or steep slopes Washes plants with every irrigation |
Sprays can drift when wind occurs Rate of evaporation is high Force of sprays can damage some plants Overly far-ranging sprays can wet sidewalks and roadways Heads are easily vandalized |
| Spray sprinkler heads |
Applies water fairly uniformly Restricts water to within boundaries Requires little or no maintenance Durable |
Rate of evaporation is high Heads are easily vandalized |
| Microsprinklers |
Low initial cost Applies water at a low rate, which is particularly beneficial for slopes Can be placed in various spots Requires only low water pressure to operate Covers large areas with each circuit Washes plants with every irrigation |
Requires special filters Sprays can drift when wind occurs Rate of evaporation is high Heads require a high degree of maintenance |
| Drip emitters |
Waters plants precisely No spray, so no drift of water when wind occurs Its operation does not interfere with any activities at the site Weeds less likely to grow Rate of evaporation is minimal Involves low initial expense Can be placed in various spots Requires only low water pressure to operate May conserve use of water |
Emitters may become plugged Requires considerable maintenance, with filters needing to be monitored and cleaned System is less durable than other types Does not wash plants with every irrigation To irrigate sandy soil, many emitters are required Knowledge of plants needed to properly place emitters |
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