Mar 03 2009
Sprinklers and Irrigation Systems
For many years, underground sprinkler systems have been used for irrigation but in the past decades, drip irrigation systems have become an alternative, which utilizes above ground tubing. These two kinds of irrigation systems are not expensive and you can use them both in your landscape at the same time. In addition, you can convert the portions of your existing sprinkler system into drip irrigation. It is necessary to group your plants that have the same watering needs, whichever system you use. This way, the circuits of separate irrigation can serve the plants and it will be easier for you to modify the water delivery to meet the watering requirements of the plants.
For large and dry expanses of ground or lawn, underground sprinklers and irrigation systems are recommended. You can also have an option to use sprinklers to water vegetable or flowerbeds if you have a multi-circuit system to separately irrigate the areas.
Sprinkler systems are almost invisible and when not used, most of the heads of the sprinklers are simply resting a little above the ground. This provides an attractive systems and low-maintenance because the parts are less likely to be damaged. Though sprinkler systems are known to waste water, there are new designs of sprinkler heads that are more precise in applying water. Remember that it is necessary to plan the sprinkler installation in order to experience its benefits. Sprinkle systems require adequate flow rates and water pressure and installation needs digging trenches as well.
Your garden’s growth depends on the irrigation system you have and lawn sprinklers are best in order to keep your plants healthy. Once you have decided on the design of the watering system you need, take note of the fact that you need to understand the proper designing and usage of the irrigation supplies and irrigation systems in order to avoid wasting of water. Here are some precautions you need to remember to make the most out of your sprinklers and irrigation systems:
1. Remember to install the same sprinkler heads for the same types of plants in every irrigation zone.
2. To get the best results, do not install spray head and rotor head on the same valve because these types of sprinkler heads put out different water amounts at the same time. You may need to over-water certain areas in your garden in order to get enough water in the entire space if you are using different sprinkler heads.
Sprinklers and irrigation systems are mechanical and you need to pay attention to their maintenance and repair. It is necessary to find a skilled sprinkler repair person to make sure that your sprinklers are repaired properly. However, you can also do the job on your own as long as you know the important and basic information on how to repair sprinklers.
Hiring a professional to repair your sprinklers may cost you a lot of money but it is much better to trust an experienced repairman to do the job than to do it on your own especially if you are not familiar with the proper ways of sprinkler repair. A professional can easily identify the problem, recognize the problem parts and handle the risky combination of electricity and water. However, it is not required to call a repairman every time your lawn sprinkler faces a problem. It is recommended to know simple instructions and information for easy repair in order to save money. You can purchase books and DVDs wherein you can learn every step in every problem you might encounter with your sprinkler.
