Quck answer
Hunter sprinkler heads can be easily fixed by following a few simple steps:
1. Identify the problem: Check for any visible damage or leaks in the sprinkler head. This could include broken nozzles, clogged filters, or misaligned heads.
2. Turn off the water supply: Before starting any repairs, make sure to turn off the water supply to avoid any accidents or further damage.
3. Replace broken parts: If the sprinkler head is broken or damaged, replace it with a new one. Make sure to choose the right model and size for your specific sprinkler system.
4. Clean clogged nozzles: If the nozzle is clogged, remove it and clean it thoroughly. Use a small brush or toothpick to remove any dirt or debris that may be blocking the water flow.
5. Adjust the sprinkler head: If the sprinkler head is misaligned, adjust it to the desired position. Use a screwdriver or wrench to make any necessary adjustments.
6. Test the sprinkler head: Once the repairs are complete, turn on the water supply and test the sprinkler head to ensure it is working properly.
By following these steps, you can easily fix Hunter sprinkler heads and ensure your irrigation system is functioning effectively.
Hunter Industries, Inc. is a popular brand of irrigation equipment available in the market today. They offer three recommended sprinklers (also known as “rotors”) for residential and small commercial installations: the PGJ, PGP, and I-20. They also manufacture larger rotors for civic grounds and athletic fields. While the repair steps generally apply to these larger rotors, specific details may vary.
Troubleshooting
Step 1
Before attempting any repair, identify the exact problem. Manually start the zone that includes the faulty rotor and observe the other rotors in the same zone. If they work normally, the issue is with the rotor and not the controller, wiring, or water supply.
Step 2
Observe the rotor closely while the zone is on. The repair will depend on the symptoms. If the rotor rises and sprays normally but does not rotate, proceed to “Replace Rotor.” If the rotor rises and shoots an uncontrolled column of water, proceed to “Install Nozzle.” If water bubbles up from the rotor but it does not rise, or if there is no water present, move to “Check Filter.”
Step 3
Turn the zone off and clear the turf and soil from around the rotor to access the rotor controls and the collar that locks the rotor mechanism into the housing.
Check Filter
Step 1
Turn the collar ring counterclockwise until it is loose.
Step 2
Remove the rotor mechanism from the housing.
Step 3
Turn the rotor mechanism upside down and use a dental pick to remove the filter screen from the bottom of the rotor mechanism. If the screen is clogged with debris, clean it thoroughly with a toothbrush and water.
Step 4
Replace the filter and look for any gravel trapped between the spring and the rotor body. Dislodge any foreign objects that are trapped between the spring and the rotor body.
Step 5
Return the rotor mechanism to the housing, tighten the collar, and retest the rotor.
Install Nozzle
Step 1
Insert the plastic end of the Hunter rotor key into the slot to the left of the arrow on the top of the rotor cap. Turn it one quarter turn and lift the rotor mechanism up against its spring as it would under water pressure.
Step 2
Place the Hunter rotor collar around the rotor body to keep it from retracting back into the housing. If the rotor was shooting an uncontrolled stream of water, replace the nozzle with the appropriate size. Each Hunter rotor comes with different-sized nozzles that provide different spray arcs.
Step 3
Use the metal end of the Hunter rotor key to unscrew the Allen head set screw that holds the nozzle in place. Push the nozzle in until it rests flush with the rotor body.
Step 4
Using the Hunter rotor key, tighten the Allen head set screw to secure the nozzle, making sure that the screw does not enter the water stream unless you want to change the water pattern for a shorter arc.
Replacing the Rotor
Step 1
If the rotor does not rotate despite rising and spraying normally, or if it fails to spray even though water is being supplied, replacing the rotor is necessary. There are no other parts that can be serviced aside from the filter and nozzle in the rotor mechanism. The housing usually does not require replacement, but the rotor mechanism cannot be purchased separately from the housing.
Step 2
Unscrew the collar that secures the rotor mechanism to the housing, turning it counterclockwise, and remove the rotor mechanism from the housing.
Step 3
Insert the correct nozzle into the new rotor mechanism.
Step 4
Insert the new rotor mechanism into the housing and screw the collar clockwise to secure it.
Step 5
Start the zone and adjust the rotor arc to match the intended coverage area using the Hunter rotor key. The plastic end of the key should be inserted into the rotor cap, where two arced arrows point toward a plus and minus. Turning the key toward the plus will increase the rotor’s travel, while turning it toward the minus will decrease it.
FAQ
1. How do I know if my Hunter sprinkler head needs fixing?
If your Hunter sprinkler head is not functioning properly, there are a few signs to look out for. First, check if the sprinkler head is leaking or if there is low water pressure. You may also notice that the water is not being distributed evenly or that the sprinkler head is not rotating as it should. These are indications that your Hunter sprinkler head needs fixing.
2. What are the common problems with Hunter sprinkler heads?
Some common problems with Hunter sprinkler heads include clogged nozzles, damaged seals, and broken risers. Clogged nozzles can prevent water from flowing properly, while damaged seals can lead to leaks. Broken risers, on the other hand, can cause the sprinkler head to not pop up or rotate correctly. These issues can affect the performance of your sprinkler system and should be addressed promptly.
3. How can I unclog a Hunter sprinkler head?
To unclog a clogged Hunter sprinkler head, start by turning off the water supply to the sprinkler system. Remove the sprinkler head from the riser and use a small tool, such as a toothpick or a wire, to clear any debris or dirt from the nozzle. Rinse the nozzle with water and reattach the sprinkler head to the riser. Turn the water supply back on and check if the sprinkler head is functioning properly.
4. Can I replace a damaged seal on a Hunter sprinkler head?
Yes, you can replace a damaged seal on a Hunter sprinkler head. Start by turning off the water supply to the sprinkler system. Remove the sprinkler head from the riser and carefully detach the old seal. Clean the area where the seal sits and insert a new seal in its place. Make sure the seal is properly aligned and reattach the sprinkler head to the riser. Turn the water supply back on and check if the sprinkler head is no longer leaking.
5. How do I adjust the spray pattern of a Hunter sprinkler head?
To adjust the spray pattern of a Hunter sprinkler head, locate the adjustment screw on top of the sprinkler head. Use a small screwdriver to rotate the screw clockwise to decrease the spray distance or counterclockwise to increase it. You can also adjust the arc of the sprinkler head by turning the adjustment screw left or right. Test the spray pattern after making adjustments to ensure it covers the desired area effectively.