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Guide

A Field Guide to VAN, Half, Quarter, Strip, Center-Strip, and End-Strip Nozzles

Learn which Rain Bird spray nozzle sizes and patterns Hunter HydroTech commonly stocks for residential irrigation service.

Updated August 5, 2026 Hunter HydroTech LLC Michigan Irrigation Knowledge Center

Spray nozzles are selected by distance, arc, and area shape. Hunter HydroTech commonly stocks a range of Rain Bird nozzles for residential service.

Commonly stocked nozzles

  • 4 VAN
  • 8 VAN
  • 8H
  • 10H
  • 12H
  • 12Q
  • 12 VAN
  • 15H
  • 15Q
  • 15 VAN
  • 18 VAN
  • 15 SST
  • 15 CST
  • 15 EST

Pattern abbreviations

  • H: Half-circle
  • Q: Quarter-circle
  • VAN: Variable adjustable nozzle
  • SST: Side-strip pattern
  • CST: Center-strip pattern
  • EST: End-strip pattern

Why pattern selection matters

The correct nozzle keeps water on the intended landscape, supports head-to-head coverage, and helps avoid overspray onto pavement, siding, and neighboring property.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does H mean on a spray nozzle?
H usually indicates a half-circle pattern.
What does Q mean on a spray nozzle?
Q usually indicates a quarter-circle pattern.
What are strip nozzles used for?
Strip nozzles are used for narrow rectangular areas such as boulevards and side strips.

Professional Irrigation Service

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Hunter HydroTech provides residential and commercial irrigation repair, pump-system service, valve diagnosis, controller troubleshooting, backflow service, revamps and seasonal maintenance throughout Southeast Michigan.

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