How to Build a Motion Activated Sprinkler to Keep Animals Out of Your Yard

Having unwanted animals like deer, rabbits, raccoons, or stray cats in your yard can be very frustrating. They eat your plants, dig holes in your lawn, leave droppings, and cause damage. While fences may keep some animals out, a motion activated sprinkler is an effective and humane way to deter most animals from entering parts of your yard. I’ll walk you through the complete process of choosing, building, and installing your own motion activated sprinkler system to keep critters away from your property.

How Motion Activated Sprinkler Animal Deterrents Work

A motion activated sprinkler, also called a scarecrow sprinkler, is a device that senses when an animal has entered the protected area. Using infrared and microwave motion sensors, it detects the body heat and movement of an approaching animal.

Once triggered, the sprinkler activates and sprays water in that direction, startling the animal and deterring it from going any further. The sudden burst of water acts as an unpleasant surprise that scares away the animal. With consistent use, critters learn to avoid the areas protected by the sprinkler.

Choosing the Best Location to Install Your Motion Sprinkler

Determining the optimal spot to install your motion sprinkler is key for effectively keeping animals away from specific areas. Consider the following factors when selecting the location:

• Entry points - Mount the sprinkler where animals commonly enter your yard from neighboring woods or fields. This could be along a fence line or near dense vegetation.

• High traffic areas - Problem zones like vegetable gardens or flower beds that attract grazing animals are ideal spots.

• Partial coverage - The sprinkler only covers a certain radius. Choose a central location instead of perimeter areas.

• Water availability - Consider hose length and access to spigots when picking the site.

• Avoid blind spots - Position the sprinkler so obstacles don't block the sensor detection field.

• Adjustability - Pick a spot that allows adjusting the sprinkler angle as needed.

How to Build a Motion Activated Sprinkler System

Constructing a motion activated sprinkler deterrent involves connecting a few key components. Follow these steps:

Supplies Needed

• Motion activated sprinkler head - This contains the motion sensor, spray nozzle, and activation mechanism. Orbit and Havahart make reliable options.

• Garden hose - Select the appropriate length to reach from the faucet to the sprinkler's mounting location. Any standard flexible garden hose will work.

• Hose timer - An automatic timer allows the sprinkler to operate on a set schedule. This saves water and prevents false daytime triggering.

• Mounting pole and stake - A tall stainless steel or aluminium sprinkler spike allows optimal height and stability for the sprinkler head.

• Adjustable hose clamp - Used to fasten the sprinkler securely onto the mounting pole at the desired height.

Assembly Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your motion activated sprinkler:

1. Attach the timer to the outdoor faucet and connect the garden hose. Set the timer according to the schedule you want the sprinkler active.

2. Insert the sprinkler spike or pole into the ground at the chosen site. For stability, bury at least 12 inches of the pole in the ground.

3. Mount the sprinkler head to the top of the pole with the adjustable hose clamp at the preferred height. Ensure the clamp is secure.

4. Connect the garden hose to the sprinkler's water input.

5. Position and angle the sprinkler head to fully cover the area to be protected. Test the sensor field using your body heat prior to activating the timer.

6. Turn on the water and activate the timer. The motion activated sprinkler will now operate automatically!

Optimizing Your Motion Activated Sprinkler

Once installed, tweaking the sprinkler setup and settings will increase effectiveness:

• Adjust the spray distance and arc using the nozzle adjuster dial.

• Angle the sprinkler head side to side and up/down to widen and extend coverage.

• Set the motion sensor sensitivity high enough to detect animals, but not plants swaying.

• Use multiple sprinklers to cover a larger area and prevent critters from approaching from blind spots.

• Run sprinklers overnight when nocturnal animals are active but motion detection is more reliable.

• Move the sprinkler occasionally so animals don't become accustomed to its location.

Troubleshooting Issues With Your Motion Sprinkler

If your motion activated sprinkler isn't deterring animals as expected, try these tips:

• Check for blockages like dirt, kinks, or leaks in the hose.

• Examine if overhanging plants or objects are obstructing the sensor zone.

• Ensure the timers are set correctly and double check the power and water supply.

• Switch out batteries in battery operated sensors annually for maximum sensitivity.

• Adjust the motion sensor range dial if it's not detecting movement well.

• Rule out blind spots where animals can bypass the sprinkler coverage area.

• Consider adding extra sprinkler heads to cover vulnerable zones from multiple angles.

Conclusion

Installing a motion activated sprinkler is an easy DIY project that provides an effective, harmless way to repel unwanted critters from your yard. Strategically place and adjust the sprinkler to deter animal intruders from gardens, landscaping, and other areas prone to damage. With a bit of tweaking, you'll have a reliable system keeping your property free of pesky animals.