What steps would you take to clear a clogged nozzle in the field?

• A. Stop flow, remove nozzle, inspect for debris, clean or replace screens, reinstall, recheck flow and pressure.
• B. Increase pump speed and push water through faster.
• C. Replace the entire pump.
• D. Apply lubricating oil to nozzle and continue.

Answer: (B)

When clearing a field nozzle, address the blockage directly rather than forcing more water through. Start by stopping the flow and relieving pressure, then remove the nozzle from the hose so you can inspect the outlet. Look for debris lodged in the nozzle or in the screens, clean them thoroughly or replace damaged screens, reassemble the nozzle, and recheck the flow and pressure to confirm the blockage is cleared. Simply increasing pump speed to push water through faster doesn’t remove the blockage and can push debris further, potentially causing more issues. Replacing the entire pump is unnecessary for a clogged nozzle, and applying lubricating oil is not appropriate and can contaminate the discharge.