What is a major disadvantage of using a high-pressure sprayer?

A major disadvantage of using a high-pressure sprayer is the increased risk of overspray. High-pressure sprayers are designed to deliver pesticides or other chemicals with significant force, which can result in the spray traveling beyond the intended target area. This could lead to unintended applications on non-target plants, surfaces, or even into the air, contributing to environmental contamination and potential harm to beneficial insects or wildlife. Proper application techniques and adjustments are crucial in managing overspray, but the inherent nature of high-pressure systems makes this a prominent concern.

In contrast, lower penetration of thick foliage generally relates more to the characteristics of the spray pattern and droplet size rather than the pressure itself. Higher water consumption is typically not exclusive to high-pressure applications and can be dependent on the situation and specific setup. While reduced maneuverability can be an issue with some sprayers due to size or weight, it does not directly relate to the pressure aspect of the sprayer's operation.