Cut Football Field Watering Time in Half: Pump and Nozzle Upgrade

Reducing Irrigation Time for a 100x200 Horse Arena

12-hour watering cycle for football field. Sta-Rite 3 HP, 25 PSI (58 ft head) pump on Toro system. Heads have #06 or #90 orifices. Want 6-hour cycle.

Physics: More Water = Less Time

To halve time, you must double the application rate (GPM). Current nozzles (06/90) indicate GPM. Larger nozzles = more GPM = larger pump needed.

Design Process

1. Identify exact nozzle GPM at operating pressure.
2. Sum GPM for all heads running simultaneously.
3. Select pump delivering that GPM at 50–60 PSI.

Warning

This is a major redesign. Consult an irrigation designer. You'll likely need a larger pump, larger mainline, and possibly more zones to manage flow.