Will an automatic sprinkler system use more water than I'm currently using?
No. In fact, it will conserve water. You'll never have to worry about runoff from overwatering or wasting water when you forget to turn off the hose. And, with a moisture sensor, your system will know when it is raining and simply shut itself off when water is not needed.
Does having a sprinkler system really save time?
Yes. You won't have to spend another minute of your valuable leisure time watering the lawn. Your new system will do all of the watering for you—even when you're away from home.
Will an automatic sprinkler system water as well as I can water by hand?
It will do a much better job because a professionally designed system will deliver exactly the right amount of water to individual lawn and garden areas.
We generally get 40 or more inches of rainfall a year. Do we really need a sprinkler system?
If it rained at your house every three days—the same exact amount each time—you probably wouldn't need a sprinkler system. But nature doesn't work that way, and the only way to ensure healthy, lush growth is to make certain your lawn and plants receive a regularly timed, evenly measured amount of water. In the dry season when there is little or no rain, your yard can suffer damage after just a few days without water.
Are there different systems from which to choose?
Although every system should be tailored to meet individual needs, a typical system will be comprised of a controller (which functions as the brains of the system), valves (which open and close to release and stop the flow of water to underground pipes) and sprinklers (which actually distribute the water to a given area).
How do I know what type of system is best for me?
It's always best to work with a professional irrigation contractor, who is knowledgeable about such factors as water source and pressure, soil type, planting materials, and weather conditions. He will take all of this into consideration in designing a system specific to the needs of your landscape.
Will I have difficulty operating this system?
Your contractor will help you select the best controller (the brains of the system) for your needs, and he will set it with your individual watering schedule. Your contractor also will work with you to explain the system's operation. Then, if necessary, you can easily change the watering schedule by just following the easy instructions on the inside of the controller cabinet.
How much will a good system cost?
The price of a system will vary depending upon many factors such as property size, type of landscaping and special designs. But you can count on your irrigation contractor to design a cost-effective system comprised of quality products. He is familiar with the products and knows how to put the right ones together in a system that will achieve maximum results for you.
