When shopping for the best oscillating sprinkler you want something that is durable and has a good range for coverage. We’ve tested a handful of different options that will suit your needs. Read below to get set-up with the perfect oscillating sprinkler for you and your lawn.
The 5 Best Oscillating Sprinklers
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#1 The Best Oscillating Sprinkler
Rocky Mountain Goods Metal Oscillating Lawn Sprinkler
Our pick for the best oscillating sprinkler goes to the metal oscillating sprinkler made by Rocky Mountain Goods. This sprinkler is a great performer and is built to last with minimal plastic parts and is backed by a lifetime warranty. This sprinkler is highly adjustable and easy to use, exactly what every homeowner needs.
Pros
- Rust proof aluminum base
- 4,100 square feet of coverage
- Built in cleaning system
- Adjustable spray pattern
- Adjustable width control
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- None
#2 Melnor 65118-AMZ XT Metal Turbo Oscillating Sprinkler
Our second best performing oscillating sprinkler comes from Melnor. The well built sprinkler is made to last. It is cast of durable metal that will last for multiple seasons and won’t deteriorate from sun exposure. Multiple adjustments make this oscillating sprinkler great for many different set-ups.
Pros
- Metal Construction
- 4,000 square feet of coverage
- Quick Connect Adapter
- Brass nozzles with provided cleaning plugs
- Range control
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Come with a quick connect option but buyer would need to purchase another piece for connection.
#3 Aqua Joe SJI-TLS18 3-Way Turbo Oscillation Lawn Sprinkler
Our third option comes from AuqaJoe which is made by trusted parent company SunJoe. SunJoe is known for providing great lawn and maintenance equipment for homeowners and this is no exception. Their oscillating sprinkler has one of the largest spray patterns in our offerings and comes with a two year warranty. The only option with adjustable range, width and flow control makes this sprinkler fully customizable to meet your needs.
Pros
- 4,500 square feet of coverage
- Adjustable spray pattern
- Adjustable range
- Adjustable flow
- Clog resistant nozzles
- Guaranteed drip free
Cons
- Plastic base and parts may be less durable
#4 Melnor XT Mini-Turbo Oscillating Spike Sprinkler
Our second Melnor offering is a great sprinkler that comes in a compact design and performs big. This oscillating sprinkler has multiple settings including width, flow and rotation that are easy to adjust. This is a great sprinkler that is compatible with stringing multiple units together to give you access to greater coverage.
Pros
- 3,900 square feet of coverage
- One touch easy adjustment
- Flow through base will allow for connecting multiple units together
- Oscillating head can rotate 360 degrees to cover angled areas
Cons
- Plastic base and parts may be less durable
#5 GARDENA 1973 Aquazoom Oscillating Sprinkler
This Gardena oscillating sprinkler is packed full of options and desireable features. This sprinkler is highly adjustable and comes with a hose quick connect feature that makes for easy connections and is compatible with various Gardena lawn and garden offerings. This sprinkler’s spray pattern is limited to 2,700 square feet so it is best utilized for smaller areas.
Pros
- 2,700 square feet of coverage
- Adjustable width of spray
- Adjustable length of spray
- Provided hose quick connect system
Cons
- Plastic base and parts may be less durable
- Not as much coverage compared to other offerings
Considerations when choosing an oscillating sprinkler
Square Footage
Measure or pace off the length and width of the area you are trying to water and multiply those numbers together to give you an estimate of total square footage.
Make sure the oscillating sprinkler you choose will provide adequate coverage in square feet for the area you are going to water.
It is always best to choose a model that will give you greater coverage than needed as you can make adjustments to ensure all areas of your lawn are being watered adequately.
Hose Type and Length
You are going to want to use the best hose possible with the least amount of length required.
The longer the hose is that leads to your oscillating sprinkler the greater loss of friction and water pressure being delivered to your sprinkler.
Many home garden hoses are ⅝ to ½ of an inch, while most water supply lines are ¾ of an inch in diameter. When appropriate try to supply your oscillating sprinkler with a similar diameter hose of ¾ of an inch to ensure optimal water flow and output.
Hose End Timer
A quick and cost effective option for oscillating sprinklers is to install a hose bib timer which will allow you to schedule watering times and duration. This will allow you to apply your weekly waterings with minimal effort and ensure the watering is getting done.
Sprinkler Storage
If you are not planning on using your oscillating sprinkler for more than a week or so, put it away and store it out of the sun and heat. Nothing will decrease the lifespan of your oscillating sprinkler quicker than being baked but the sun and elements.
There you have it! Our top picks for the best oscillating sprinklers this year.
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