Sprinkler System Tips- Some Sprinkler FAQs
 Q: Why install a sprinkler system?
Automatic irrigation systems are convenient, taking the sometimes cumbersome burden of watering off of the homeowner. When installed properly, irrigation systems can actually save you money, by targeting the precise locations requiring watering, and by watering plants evenly. Additionally, sprinkler systems ensure a precise and consistent watering process, conserving lawn, plants, and shrubbery in their optimum forms.
Q: What types of sprinkler systems are there?
A: There are basically three types of irrigation systems for residential landscapes. Two of them are known for the type of sprinkler heads they use: spray lawn sprinkler heads, and rotor lawn sprinkler heads.
- Spray lawn sprinkler head systems: Spray lawn sprinkler heads may be installed above ground, or may remain underground, only popping up at watering time. Spray heads discharge a large amount of water in a short amount of time—a high application rate. For this reason, spray head sprinklers are most suitable for flat surfaces. If you do install your spray head sprinkler system on a slope, program it to discharge smaller amounts of water several times over the course of the day, to prevent runoff.
- Rotor lawn sprinkler head systems: Rotor lawn sprinkler heads tend to apply water more slowly and uniformly as compared to spray heads. The lower application rate makes rotor lawn sprinkler systems more suitable for large areas of lawn with uniform watering needs.
- Drip irrigation systems: An entirely different concept in irrigation, drip irrigation systems were created to conserve water by targeting only the roots of vital plants, without watering the space between plants. Drip irrigation systems are comprised of a series of tubes. Holes are placed at intervals in the tubes, corresponding to the location of plant roots.
Q: Is it okay to mix and match sprinkler systems?
A: Install a sump pump; typically, 1/3 hp is enough for occasional water flow, and ½ hp is needed for daily flow. You can also get a battery-operated sump pump for backup, and a high-water alarm.
Q: How do I plan my sprinkler system?
A: Ideally, planning should occur even before planting. Plants with similar watering needs should be consolidated to their own areas. Once you have established the watering needs of each part of your landscape, you and your sprinkler professional will have a better idea of the optimum set-up for your sprinkler system.
Q: Does the soil type affect sprinkler systems?
A: Yes. Sandy soil does not retain water very well, and therefore requires more frequent watering. Clay-based soil retains water, and care should be taken to avoid over-watering, which may lead to drowning the roots.
Q: Is there any way to automatically stop the sprinkler system in the rain?
A: Yes. If you prefer not to override the system yourself in the case of rain, you can install a rain sensor on your roof. Rain sensors can then be hooked up to automatic systems, turning the sprinkler system off automatically after a designated amount of rain.
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