+ How can I be sure I’ll get a good system?

One of the most important steps you can take to ensure that you “get a good system” is to be skeptical of the contractor who offers to install your system for a lot less money than other contractors who bid on your job. These “low bid” contractors use tricks of the trade to save installation time and money but compromise the long-term reliability of your system. By the time that first or second heat wave has come and gone, so has that low bid contractor. Try as you may, they no longer return your calls or worse yet, they are out of business. So, up front, ask how long they’ve been in business in your area and ask for references. You’ll be glad you did.

+ Are there specific things that are typical of a good system?

A “good” sprinkler system is one that is customized to your landscape and to your climate. If windy conditions are prevalent, ask about low angle nozzles to prevent excessive misting. If your landscape has both lawn and shrubs, ask if these areas will be watered independently, i.e. using separate zones. Ask about the warranty. Will it include parts and labor? For how long? Your system should also be designed to be reliable for years to come. Will the contractor use water tight electrical connections? How deep will the sprinkler pipes be buried? This is particularly important in colder climates. Will the sprinkler heads themselves be connected to the sprinkler lines with special connections that minimize head breakage caused by maintenance equipment or by simply being next to the driveway? All of the components we sell are engineered and manufactured to give you years of trouble-free service. The independent contractor who installs your system is a professional. You can count on him or her for technical expertise and business integrity.

+ How much will my lawn sprinkler system cost?

Many factors affect the price of a complete sprinkler system. The most significant include property size, the number of different planting areas in your landscape, available water pressure, soil conditions, and the expertise and efficiency of the contractor. It’s a good idea to agree upon the number of days that the entire installation will take and to make that part of the agreement between you and the contractor. Of course options such as remote control and water-saving brass spray nozzles, while adding to the initial cost of the system, actually reduce the cost of ownership over time. For the best possible system designed to fit your landscape and your budget, choose a contractor you trust and who uses professional Weathermatic or Rain Bird products.

+ Can I save money by installing my own system?

It depends. Remember, product cost is only one part of an efficient irrigation system. Many people choose to hire an experienced professional irrigation contractor who will bring years of experience designing and installing the most cost-effective and efficient irrigation systems. Contractors have also invested heavily in specialized installation equipment to help speed up the job and many have gone through detailed training courses and certifications.

+ Will an automatic sprinkler system use more water than I am currently using to water my landscape?

No. In fact, an automatic sprinkler system may actually save you water. A well designed, efficient irrigation system applies exactly the amount of water needed by your landscape. You will never again have to worry about wasting water if you forget to turn off the hose. Plus, with a rain shut off sensor your system will know when it is raining and simply turn itself off when water is not needed.

+ Does having a sprinkler system really save me time?

Yes. You won’t have to spend another minute of your valuable leisure time watering the lawn. Your new system will do all the watering for you - even when you are away from home!

+ Will an automatic sprinkler system water as well as I do when I water by hand?

An automatic sprinkler system will do a more efficient job because it will be designed based on your landscapes diverse watering needs, using specific products designed to water grass, trees, shrubs or garden plants.

+ 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 would not need a sprinkler system. But nature doesn’t work that way, and the only way to ensure healthy, lush yard is to make certain that your lawn and plants receive a regularly timed and evenly measured amount of water. In the dry season when there is little or no rain, your plants can suffer stress and damage after just a few days without water.

Like most people, you probably have many questions that you would like to ask before finalizing your decision to purchase an automatic sprinkler system. We hope this information has helped to answer some of your questions, but if you have more, don’t hesitate to ask your professional irrigation contractor that we can refer you to.