Drip vs Spray Heads: Which Should You Be Using?

As irrigation professionals, we recognize the importance of choosing the most efficient and effective product for our customers’ properties. Whether you’re designing a system for a commercial or residential client, it’s vital to make an informed decision between drip and spray heads. Doing so not only ensures a well-irrigated property—it also opens up opportunities to grow your business and increase customer satisfaction.

What is Drip Irrigation?

Drip irrigation relies on emitters and tubes to deliver water slowly to the root of plants. Instead of spraying pressurized water across a wide area, drip irrigation can be installed in just the areas you’d like to water. Drip irrigation is ideal when you’re focused on reduced water waste, less pressure, or more precise hydration targeting. Drip irrigation can also be a key part in remaining compliant with any applicable local regulations.

Common Uses:

• Trees & Shrubs
• Flower Beds
• Plants in Pots or Containers
• Foundation Plants

Upsell Opportunity: Drip Irrigation

Offering drip irrigation gives contractors a value-added service for areas that spray can’t efficiently cover. It also positions you as a water-smart, sustainability-focused professional.

Discussion Topics to Sell Drip to Customers:

• “Do you have plants or beds that need more precise watering? Drip systems target roots and save water.”
• “We can retrofit parts of your existing system with drip to make it more efficient—without a full overhaul.”
• “Drip irrigation meets most water conservation regulations and can reduce your monthly water bill.”

What are Spray Heads?

Spray heads literally spray streams of water across wide areas of turf. They are excellent for uniform coverage of large areas, and are often much quicker to install than drip irrigation systems. They come in a variety of sizes and can often be tailored to hydrate turf based on the size and shape of the land they are meant to water.

Common Uses:

• Large and Open Spaces
• Athletic Fields
• Most Commercial or Municipal Landscapes
• Newly Seeded Areas

Upsell Opportunity: Spray Heads

Spray systems are your go-to solution for large spaces—but they also offer opportunities for upgrades, like high-efficiency nozzles or smart controllers.

Discussion Topics to Sell Spray Systems to Customers:

• “Is your lawn getting uneven watering? Let’s upgrade with matched precipitation nozzles.”
• “Newer heads reduce runoff and waste—more coverage with less water.”
• “If you’re seeding a new area, a tailored spray setup will help ensure even germination.”

When To Use Both

In many cases, the best irrigation system combines both drip and spray heads. For example, a hybrid setup might use drip for beds and planters, and spray heads for a nearby lawn. By focusing on the needs and unique properties of each watering zone, you’ll be able to combine both of these methods effectively.

Upselling the Entire Property

Many contractors stop at the lawn. But what about the beds, containers, tree rings, or even vertical gardens? Each of these spaces represents an opportunity to add value—and revenue.

Discussion Topics to Use with Existing Customers:

• “Let’s walk your property and make sure every plant is getting the water it needs—without wasting a drop.”
• “We’ve added new drip options since your install. Want to hear how they could improve your system?”
• “I noticed your beds are on spray—converting them to drip could save water and give your plants a boost.”

Expand Your Portfolio with Central’s Support

At Central, we’re more than a distributor—we’re your growth partner. We offer:

• Hands-on technical training to help your team confidently install and troubleshoot both spray and drip systems
• Sales training and tools so your staff can upsell upgrades and expand services with confidence
• Branch-level support and account reps who understand your business goals and can help you build a more profitable service portfolio

Conclusion,