What is the best way to identify a broken spray head?

Identifying a broken spray head primarily involves conducting a visual inspection. This method allows an irrigation technician to quickly assess the physical condition of each spray head in the system. During a visual inspection, one can look for clear signs of damage, such as cracks, breaks, or dislodgement from the ground. Additionally, observing the pattern of water distribution while the system is operational can highlight irregularities caused by a malfunctioning head, such as uneven coverage or excessive misting.

While other methods like pressure testing, flow rate measurement, and listening for leaks may provide useful diagnostic information, they are often more complex and time-consuming compared to a straightforward visual inspection. Pressure testing is typically used to identify issues related to the entire system or determine whether there are leaks beyond just the heads. Flow rate measurement helps assess the performance of the entire irrigation system but does not specifically indicate which component is failing. Listening for leaks can identify areas of sound loss, but it may not directly identify a broken spray head, especially if the surrounding components are still functioning normally. Therefore, visual inspection remains the most effective and immediate technique for identifying broken spray heads.