Tips for selecting a backpack sprayer – Advice from a gardener

backpack sprayer

There are many uses for backpack sprayers and knowing what you can do with them is essential to the maintenance of the sprayer, wand, and nozzle, to the effectiveness of what you are trying to do, and most importantly, your safety and wellbeing.

Whether you plan to use it for your lawn, in the garden, around your house, or in your yard, choosing the best sprayer for your needs can make your life a lot easier.

Read on to learn more about it’s use and why you should consider getting one.

What is a Great Backpack Sprayer?

Sprayers are used by gardeners when they need to apply a mixture to plants. It’s often used to kill weeds in lawns and gardens and there’s tons of options on the market.

Deciding on the best option for your needs can also present a challenge.

If you have a smaller area to cover, a pump operated sprayer should be fine. If you have a larger area to spray, then you should look at getting a battery operated sprayer. The main reason for this is so your arm won’t get tired or sore from continually pumping. Even if you are strong and fit, hours of pumping chemicals will leave your back, shoulders, and arms exhausted.

How Far Can They Spray?

Before you decide on a backpack sprayer, you will need to determine how far you need it to spray. There is a big difference between spraying the weeds in your garden versus using one to reach the roof of your house or garage.

You also need to look at the length of the wand and the type of nozzle that the pump has. The wider the spray pattern, the less distance it sprays. Most options on the market can reach distances of around 20 to 25 feet.

How Much do They Weigh?

Backpack sprayers are made to be lightweight, but how much they weigh is based on how big the tank is. Depending on the capacity, a sprayer can weigh between 15 and 45 pounds when full. Having a bigger capacity obviously makes your job easier, but you need to balance this with its usability. It may be too hard for some people to carry over 40 pounds on their back.

Most options today are quite durable and are made of polyethylene plastic, which is resistant to chemical corrosion and very light.

Most backpack sprayer tanks have a 4-gallon capacity. Some hold more which increases their weight – around 8 pounds per gallon added to the tank. If you need a higher capacity, but like the convenience of using a backpack sprayer, you can buy an extra tank. It will cost more but can save time when working in your yard. The extra tank can also come in handy if you are using more than one product and you don’t want to have to empty the sprayer each time.

Another reason to consider multiple tanks is to avoid product contamination. Some chemicals can be difficult to rinse out of the tank. For example, having one tank for insecticide and one for herbicide means there is no chance you may accidentally apply the wrong product to a plant.

The Right Backpack Sprayer Lightens Your Load

If you take time to carefully assess your needs and choose a backpack sprayer to suit those needs, you ensure that you lighten your load and work more efficiently.

Pairing a good choice of sprayer with the proper technique will save you money and time while reducing your frustration. By purchasing the right sprayer for the right task increases efficiency and minimizes waste. Quality equipment makes your job easier and safer.

Before using any backpack sprayer, read the instructions carefully and ensure you understand each step. Also, make sure to follow the measuring and mixing guidelines and adhere to all the precautions of the chemicals that you use.