The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) WaterSense® program is considering expanding its suite of outdoor water-saving products with a draft specification for spray sprinkler nozzles that can earn the WaterSense label. EPA released the WaterSense Draft Specification for Spray Sprinkler Nozzles for public comment through January 12, 2024.
A spray sprinkler nozzle is a device that combines with a spray sprinkler body to distribute water on a landscape. WaterSense already labels spray sprinkler bodies that use less water and perform well in irrigation systems with excessive water pressure, and this specification would further enhance water savings in landscape irrigation systems. Recent studies have found that certain models of sprinkler nozzles can reduce the water used for irrigation by 2,400 gallons per year on the average-sized residential landscape.
These nozzles have lower application rates and higher distribution uniformity when compared to other models on the market and offer matched precipitation rates that apply the same amount of water within a specified run time. Based on field studies, EPA estimates that these models use, on average, about 10 percent less water than traditional spray sprinkler nozzles on the market, though field studies suggest higher savings are possible.
Like all WaterSense-labeled products, spray sprinkler nozzles will be independently certified to save water and perform well. Following the public comment period and once the specification is finalized, manufacturers of spray sprinkler nozzles that meet EPA’s criteria will be eligible to apply to earn the WaterSense label. Those interested in learning more about the specification can visit epa.gov/watersense/spray-sprinkler-nozzles. Interested parties can submit written comments to the EPA no later than January 12, 2024, to [email protected]. Email [email protected] with any questions.
WaterSense, a partnership program sponsored by the EPA, seeks to protect the future of our nation’s water supply by offering people a simple way to use less water with water-efficient products, new homes, and services. Since the program’s inception in 2006, WaterSense has helped consumers save a cumulative 7.5 trillion gallons of water and more than $171 billion in water and energy bills.
