Replacing or Installing Pop-up Nozzles

Replacing damaged or plugged nozzles or installing a nozzle on a new head.

Start by pulling the pop-up shaft up out of its resting place, a small screwdriver can be helpful at this point to pry the nozzle out of its resting place. It is spring loaded, so you will have to hold on to it for the entire process.

I am holding the nozzle by putting pressure on the bottom of the shaft with my fingers.

Unscrew and remove the nozzle or flush cap (new heads, it is a cap that comes with the new sprinkler head that allows you to flush debris out before installing a nozzle). Remove the basket / Screen as well, you may need to use a small screwdriver to help coax the basket out.

Select the proper nozzle for replacement. Nozzles are rated by number. The number is related to how far the nozzle throws water. Example, a Rain Bird 15 nozzle will throw water 12-15 feet, so it can cover an area up to 30 feet wide. There are charts available to help you select the nozzle for the brand you are using. Simply search the Internet for your sprinkler model. Example, if I am using Rain Bird Products I would Search, Rain Bird Pop-up Nozzle Chart.

Simply insert the basket

Then screw on the nozzle.

If the nozzle is on an edge and needs to be adjusted so that the water sprays the correct direction, simply grasp the shaft and twist in the direction it needs to be adjusted to. You may hear a clicking sound while you turn the shaft, this is normal.

If you are using a VAN (Variable Arc Nozzle) you can adjust the arc by twisting the ring on the collar of the nozzle. This will be different depending on the brand nozzle you are using.

Test the station to make sure it is adjusted properly.