Gardening can be a rewarding experience. After carefully planting your little piece of horticultural heaven, you now have a healthy green lawn, flourishing flowers, and also veggies, or a bountiful orchard. However, you also need to maintain your garden as well and this can be time-consuming.
A backpack sprayer can help you keep your garden free from insect infestations by giving you a fast and easy way of applying herbicides, pesticides, insecticides, or fertilizer.
The 5 Best Backpack Sprayers
- D.B. Smith Field King Professional 190328 No Leak Pump Backpack Sprayer
- Chapin International 63985 BLACK+DECKER Backpack Sprayer
- Smith Performance Sprayers NL400 4-Gallon No Leak Backpack Sprayer
- HD Hudson 97154 SP1 Multi-Purpose Professional Bak-Pack Sprayer (Our Top Pick)
- Solo 425 4-Gallon Professional Piston Backpack Sprayer
Our Top Pick for the Best Backpack Sprayer
Our top pick for the best backpack sprayer is the HD Hudson 97154 SP1 Multi-Purpose Professional Bak-Pack Sprayer.
A high-performance commercial-grade sprayer that is good value for money. The Hudson can take the hard work out of pest control and garden maintenance. Although it is a manual diaphragm pump operated spray, it is easy to use. It also does not require a lot of effort to get a powerful spray. This sprayer can handle a lot of work. It is user-friendly with padded straps, and it is made from high-quality materials and components, so it guaranteed to last.
Check the price on Amazon
A Backpack Sprayer: Making Your Gardening and Household Tasks Easy
A backpack sprayer is such a versatile tool. In addition to giving you a quick and efficient way of staying on top of your gardening maintenance, a backpack sprayer can also be used for other household tasks like cleaning the exterior of your home, cleaning a car or boat, or applying a new coat of varnish on your deck.
This very flexible gardening tool can also help you to apply fertilizer in confined spaces. It can also help treat a lot of plants, or for treating particular areas of your garden.
As a portable and no-mess-no-fuss approach to gardening and household maintenance, the backpack sprayer will accurately apply fertilizer, pesticide, or a cleaning agent. It will also save you from having to touch the liquid or clean up afterward.
An important thing to remember: if you want to use the sprayer for cleaning and washing as well as applying fertilizer or pesticide, consider purchasing an additional tank. This way you can have one tank for your pest control tasks. The other for your cleaning or fertilizing tasks, and you do not have to worry about cross-contamination.
Basic Components of a Backpack Sprayer
So how does a backpack sprayer work? A backpack sprayer is a compact hands-free unit that sits on your back. It allows you to move about your garden or property and dispense your pesticide, fertilizer, or water as required. The backpack comprises five main parts, a tank, a pump, a wand, a nozzle, and also shoulder straps or a harness.
Tank
These days most backpack sprayer pumps are quite lightweight as they have compact tanks that are made from polyethylene plastic, which is durable and resistant to chemicals and is also UV protected. A tank can have a spray tank capacity from 2 to 4-gallons of liquid, which is ideal for residential purposes. Although they are made to be as lightweight as possible, tanks can be heavier if they hold a higher capacity.
Pump
The pump works by drawing the liquid from the tank and sending it to the pressurizing chamber where seals and valves hold the liquid under pressure until you squeeze the pumping lever or valve on the wand, which then sends out the liquid through the nozzle in a high-powered spray.
Wand
The wand is the elongated shaft that allows you to channel the liquid and spray it onto your desired target. It also helps you to apply the liquid in hard to reach places, therefore allowing you to spray up above your head or safely apply the liquid into areas that may have plants that have thorns or prickly leaves.
Nozzle
The nozzle is the most important part of the sprayer as it controls the flow and pattern of the spray. Most backpack sprayers have different types of nozzles that give you different types of spray patterns like a narrow or wide stream, a cone, fan, direct stream or adjustable, which is very handy for when you need to spray a small area like a veggie patch or a larger area like an orchard full of trees.
Most backpack sprayers have nozzles that you can adjust from a steady jet stream to a fan spray. Or they may give you other spray pattern options like a high foaming nozzle. Some nozzles can deliver from 0.3 to 0.5-gallons of liquid per minute.
Take note of what the nozzle is made out of. Plastic nozzles may make the sprayer cheaper, but they will degrade over time. Bronze or brass nozzles are more expensive. However, these nozzles will last longer and save you money in the long term.
Straps or Harness
As backpack sprayers are designed to be portable, they will have straps or a harness that fits over your shoulders and across your chest to help distribute the weight, so that your hands are free to use the wand and perform other tasks.
PSI Pressure
Most backpack sprayers can reach up from 15 to 95 psi of pressure, while there are some professional-grade sprayers that can give a whopping amount of pressure up to 150 psi.
As the level of pressure can change from model to model, one of the most important things to remember is to ensure that the pressure of the tank is consistent and that it will continually spray the liquid until you release the trigger or handle on the wand.
Another thing to be aware of in relation to pressure is that, depending on the unit, the pressure will gradually decrease as the tank empties and once the spray is applied.
To avoid the inconsistency in pressure, some backpack sprayers feature a built-in pressure regulator that automatically controls the pressure.
How to Choose the Best Backpack Sprayer
In addition to their basic components, you can either operate backpack sprayers by one of two different types of mechanical operations, via a piston or diaphragm pump.
Piston Backpack Sprayers
Piston pumps are recognizable by the up-and-down motion and they are in a chamber inside the tank. They normally allow a good level of pressure, around 90 psi. When you “pump” the lever, it creates pressure which forces the liquid down into the wand so that you can spray just the right amount of liquid.
Piston sprayers can be the cheaper option. However, you cannot use them for highly abrasive chemicals as the chemicals can destroy the piston.
Diaphragm Sprayers
Diaphragm sprayers can be more expensive and they work in a similar fashion to a piston pump, but they do not have the internal cylinder. The pumping of the handle moves the diaphragm to create the pressure. Diaphragm sprayers are much more resistant to chemicals and you can use powders as well as liquids. Diaphragm pumps give you quicker pressure when you need it, but they may require more maintenance.
Manual or Motorized Backpack Sprayers
In regards to their operation, there are two types of backpack sprayers: manual or motorized.
– Manual
Manual backpack sprayers are the most common types of sprayers and they require you to operate the hand pump. Once you pump the handle, the pressurized liquid is forced up into the wand ready for spraying.
Manual sprayers are quite affordable, but they can give you hand fatigue if you have to use the unit for a long period of time. However, these days most manufacturers make their sprayers with high-powered pumps that make it relatively easy to use.
If you are treating smaller infestations or you have a smaller sized property, a good quality manual sprayer will get the job done effectively. Some sprayers come with an adjustable handle that you can change to left or right-handed, which also makes it easier for you to work with.
– Motorized Backpack Sprayers
If you are going to be treating a larger area, a motorized model with a powerful battery will get the job done quickly and it will relieve the pressure off your hands from having to constantly maintain pressure on the handle. While motorized sprayers make the job easier and quicker, they are heavier, more expensive, and require extra maintenance.
Safety and Comfort
Backpack sprayers have lots of features that can help to reduce operator fatigue when using the backpack sprayer. Some have adjustable padded straps or contoured tanks that provide a better fit for the user as well. They may have a padded harness or they may have Viton rubber seals and gaskets that are chemical-resistant and can stop any leaks.
Spray Wand
A good quality spray wand is very important for user comfort and accurate application of the chemicals that you need to apply to your trees, shrubs, and other things. Some manufacturers make their spray wands out of brass instead of plastic, which means they are more durable and will not break.
Durability and Easy to Repair
Most good quality sprayers have tanks that are made from high-density polyethylene with added UV protection. If you are going to be fertilizing or doing a lot of pest control, you are going to need a sprayer that is not going to leak all over you. So look for industrial-strength hoses and seals that are chemical and leak-resistant.
Lockable Shut-Off Mechanism
You can usually place a lockable shut-off mechanism on the handle. This feature allows you to control the release of any liquids or chemicals and stop them from dripping when you do not want them to.
Improved Shoulder Straps and Harnesses
Shoulder straps and a good quality harness can make your gardening or home maintenance chores a lot easier. Even though most backpack sprayers are lightweight, there can be heavier when they are full of liquid. So look for a sprayer that has adjustable padded shoulder, chest, and waist straps. A harness is also a good thing to have if you are working with a heavier and bulkier backpack sprayer.
5 Best Backpack Sprayers – Reviews
1. D.B. Smith Field King Professional 190328 No Leak Pump Backpack Sprayer
If you need to fertilize a garden or lawn or need to control pests on your fruit trees in your orchard, the Field King Professional Backpack Sprayer from D.B. Smith will help you to take control of your gardening chores in a flash. With a 4-gallon capacity, a patented pump that can provide 150 psi of spray and a pressure regulator that allows it to spray a continuous 25 psi, it makes this sprayer the ideal choice for medium-sized properties.
Whether you are killing weeds or spraying fruit trees, the Field King can rival other piston or diaphragm backpack sprayers. As the internal pressure chamber can generate spray that can reach up to 20-feet in the air, and the built-in agitator can handle all types of liquids, powders, and water-soluble solutions, while the internal paddles make sure the liquid is well mixed and ready for you to spray.
The backpack sprayer is well made with a durable plastic tank, brass internal components, and a 21-inch poly wand that is fitted with the highest quality Viton seals that are designed to resist any damage from harsh chemicals. There are four different nozzles to choose from depending on your spraying application needs. A foaming nozzle, two flat fan nozzles, and a brass adjustable nozzle.
This item can also use TeeJet nozzles and replacements parts are available.
The pump action also works very efficiently to create more precise spray patterns from the poly wand. Its comfort grip makes it more ergonomically friendly for when you are working in a confined space or hard to reach places. The handle can also be reversed for left or right-handed use, and as it is a built-in handle it makes the unit easy to carry and store.
Although it is one of the heavier sprayers at 13-15 pounds, the Field King is one of the most comfortable sprayers to use. It has adjustable shoulder straps that are padded for your extra comfort and the chest cinch strap and waist belt are also padded. You also do not have to worry about any leakage while you are working as the Field King Professional backpack features a no-leak pump to ensure that no chemicals will get on your clothing.
The in-line filter reduces any clogging, plus there is a lockable shut off system.
If you need to do some maintenance, the sprayer is user-friendly because you can easily change the seals without having to use any tools. The sprayer has a large tank and a filtration basket that can keep out any large pieces of debris while you are filling it. And also the one-way valve helps to prevent any spills if the tank is inverted. Although the set-up is relatively easy, you should keep the box to make sure you assemble the sprayer correctly as the instructions on the manual are not very clear.
Pros
- Affordable
- Very good design
- Comfortable to wear
- Very good spraying capability
- Pump pressurizes up to 150 psi
- Smooth pump action
- Easy to assemble
- No leaks
Cons
- Has to pump by hand
- Can be heavy when the tank is full
- Instructions on manual are not very clear
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2. Chapin International 63985 BLACK+DECKER Backpack Sprayer
If you need to maintain a vineyard or rid your garden or home from an invasion of unwanted pests, the Chapin International sprayer will save you time, money and effort. The sprayer has a good sized 4-gallon tank, a powerful 20-volt BLACK+DECKER lithium-ion battery that will provide you with 1.75 hours of continuous spraying. It also has 50-gallons of spray before you have to recharge the battery, and with a 35-40 psi of pressure.
The Chapin spray can produce a steady stream for a maximum of 35-feet. The durable, translucent polyethylene tank comes with an extra-large 6-inch wide opening space that is very easy to fill and the carrying handle is built right into the cap. The cushioned grip shut-off has a built-in serviceable filter, which makes sure that no debris can clog the nozzle.
As the sprayer is powered by a strong battery, you do not have to constantly pump the unit to get the pressure you desire. The deluxe padded shoulder straps make the unit very comfortable to wear. The Chapin sprayer is compatible with common fertilizers, weed killers, and pesticides.
Pros
- Very good value for money
- Ideal for a small to medium-sized property
- 20-volt battery provides 1.5 of spraying
- Provides good coverage
- Sprays up to 35-feet
- Easy to use
- Comfortable to wear
- Easy-to-fill tank
- Quiet
Cons
- Lid can leak if you overfill the tank
- Need to charge the battery for 3.5 hours before use
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3. Smith Performance Sprayers NL400 4-Gallon No Leak Backpack Sprayer
If you have a large garden to maintain, the Smith Performance Backpack Sprayer has a 4-gallon tank and the ability to pump out 150 psi of pressure. So with a high level of performance and comfortability, you can do your gardening tasks quickly and effectively. Smith has designed this durable sprayer from high-quality materials.
A contoured tank, powerful internal piston pump design, 50-inch chemically resistant poly hose, a 21-inch poly-lined stainless steel wand and stainless tank frame.
With a built-in agitator that can handle liquids, powders, and water-soluble solutions, it has a finely tuned mixing action that will make sure that your liquid is ready to be sprayed on demand, while the durable Viton seals and gaskets throughout the pump and wand ensure that you will not experience any leaks.
The highly efficient sprayer can achieve 65% higher pressure than other leading diaphragm pump backpacks. And the patented pump design means that the powerful spray can target those hard-to-reach areas and create more precise spray patterns for even coverage.
If you have to spend a few hours tending to unruly weeds and devouring pests that seek to destroy your flowers and veggies, the Smith sprayer is very comfortable to wear. It has supportive straps and breathable, full coverage, padded ballistic nylon harness that helps to evenly distribute the weight of the unit across your shoulders and giving you that much needed lumbar support.
There are multiple nozzles that can give you different types of spray action. Wide fan and flat fan, a specially patented high foaming nozzle, and an adjustable brass nozzle, and the wand can also accept TeeJet nozzles. The handle has a shut-off locking system when you do not need to use the spray and the integrated, foldable carry handle and wand makes the unit easy to store, and the handle also reverses for left or right-handed use.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Ideal for small to medium-sized properties
- Maintains a good level of consistent pressure
- Pump action is smooth and powerful
- Very responsive wand
- No leaks
- Very comfortable to wear
- Good quality harness and supportive straps
- Durable
- Easy to set-up
Cons
- Not motorized
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4. HD Hudson 97154 SP1 Multi-Purpose Professional Backpack Sprayer
The HD Hudson 97154 SP1 Multi-Purpose Professional Bak-Pack Sprayer is a great choice for taking control of pest invasions around your property as well as priming your plants to perfection with your favorite fertilizer. HD Hudson is well known for its high-performance products and their diaphragm pump operated spray is durable and gives a good amount of 70 psi of pressure and it is also really easy to pump and spray.
The Bak-Pak sprayer is made from high-quality materials and components like the professionally sealed diaphragm pump that moves up and down in a smooth action to give you a powerful spray, and the Viton seals have exceptional resistance to leaks and chemicals. The lever that connects the handle with the diaphragm pump is made from stainless steel and the wand and tip are both made out of brass, not plastic.
The translucent 4-gallon tank is compact and allows you to see the level of the liquid. The straps are padded and you can adjust them to fit your body size. The industrial spray hose is strong and the 20-inch brass wand has an adjustable brass cone pattern nozzle as well as three plastic flat fan nozzles. If you need to quickly shut off the spray there is a locking shut-off valve within the in-line filter inside the 47-inch industrial spray hose, and the sprayer is easy to clean and store.
This sprayer is designed for agrichemicals (herbicides, pesticides or fertilizers) and can also be used with stainers and sealers. If you want to use it with bleach or disinfectants, you will need to use the Hudson SP2 sprayer.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Good, sturdy sprayer
- Brass wand and adjustable brass cone pattern nozzle
- Performs very well
- Steel pump handle
- Easy to take apart and clean
- Easy to pump
- Durable
Cons
- Not motorized
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5. Solo 425 4-Gallon Professional Piston Backpack Sprayer
The Solo 425 4-Gallon Professional Piston Backpack Sprayer is very affordable. It is also good quality, multi-purpose sprayer that you can use for spraying disinfectants, fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, concrete finishing, and wooden deck treatments. So whether you are tending to your orchard, ridding your property of unwanted pests, or cleaning your deck, the Solo sprayer makes it so easy.
A powerful manually operated, piston-powered spray, the Solo sprayer can produce pressure up to 90 psi. It is also very user-friendly as left-handed or right-handed people can use the switchable pump handle.
You can be assured that this well designed sprayer can be used for most household cleaning or pest elimination tasks as the sprayer has a commercial quality 4-gallon high density, ultraviolet-resistant polyethylene tank, a heavy duty pressure cylinder, a high performance piston pump, a double filtration system, a reversible pump lever, and a 4-feet nylon reinforced 48-inch high pressured hose, all of which provide optimum performance for a full range of applications.
This durable backpack sprayer has Viton seals that are chemical and leak-resistant.
If you have a larger property with uneven terrain, the Solo sprayer provides good shoulder support with padded polyester straps on the harness and the commercial shut-off valve in the 28-inch wand stops any leakage. The tank is very easy to fill as it has a large 4.25-inch opening and also a strainer to stop any debris from falling into the tank. There are four nozzles to choose: a hollow cone, jet stream, fan spray, and an adjustable nozzle.
This item comes with a one-year limited warranty.
Before filling the tank, make sure that you check that the hose and all the connections are tight, especially if you are going to be using this sprayer a lot.
Pros
- Affordable
- Good quality
- Ideal for pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, and liquid disinfectants
- Compact
- Good spray pattern
- Solid performance
- Four different nozzles
Cons
- Can leak
- Straps can twist
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Our Top Pick for the Best Backpack Sprayer
Our top pick for the best backpack sprayer is the HD Hudson 97154 SP1 Multi-Purpose Professional Bak-Pack Sprayer.
A high-performance commercial-grade sprayer that is good value for money. The Hudson can take the hard work out of pest control and garden maintenance. Although it is a manual diaphragm pump operated spray, it is easy to use. It also does not require a lot of effort to get a powerful spray. This sprayer can handle a lot of work. It is user-friendly with padded straps, and it is made from high-quality materials and components, so it guaranteed to last.
Check the price on Amazon
