An efficient sprinkler system can help maintain the health of your lawn and garden, while saving you time and effort. A properly designed sprinkler system can also conserve water and reduce your utility bills. However, designing a sprinkler system can be a daunting task, especially for those who are not familiar with the process.
Read on as we provide this seven-step guide to designing an efficient sprinkler system that meets your specific needs.
Step 1: Determine Your Water Source
Before you start designing your sprinkler system, you need to determine your water source. This can be a city water supply or a well. Once you know your water source, you can determine the flow rate and pressure of your water supply. This information is crucial for designing a sprinkler system that works efficiently.
Step 2: Map Out Your Lawn or Garden
The next step is to map out your lawn or garden. You can use graph paper or a computer program to create a detailed map of your property. Be sure to include any obstacles, such as trees or buildings, that may affect your sprinkler system.
Step 3: Determine Your Watering Needs
The next step is to determine your watering needs. This includes the type of plants you have and their water requirements. For example, some plants require more water than others, and some need to be watered at specific times of the day. You should also consider the slope of your lawn or garden, as this can affect the distribution of water.
Step 4: Choose the Right Sprinkler Heads
Once you know your watering needs, you can choose the right sprinkler heads for your system. There are several types of sprinkler heads to choose from, including spray heads, rotor heads, and drip irrigation. Each type of sprinkler head has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you should choose the one that best meets your needs.
Step 5: Determine the Sprinkler Head Spacing
The next step is to determine the spacing between your sprinkler heads. This will depend on the type of sprinkler head you choose and the water pressure of your system. In general, spray heads should be spaced between eight (8) and fifteen (15) feet apart, while rotor heads should be spaced between fifteen (15) and thirty-five (35) feet apart.
Step 6: Calculate the Watering Zone Coverage
The next step is to calculate the watering zone coverage. This refers to the area of your lawn or garden that each sprinkler head will cover. You can use a sprinkler head coverage chart to determine the coverage area of each sprinkler head. This information will help you determine the number of sprinkler heads needed for each zone.
Step 7: Determine the Watering Schedule
The final step is to determine the watering schedule for your sprinkler system. This will depend on the type of plants you have and their water requirements, as well as the climate in your area. In general, it is best to water your lawn or garden in the early morning or late evening, when the temperature is cooler, and there is less evaporation.
Conclusion
Indeed, designing a sprinkler system may seem overwhelming at first, but by following these steps, you can create a system that meets your specific needs. Remember to choose the right sprinkler heads, determine the spacing between them, and calculate the watering zone coverage. By designing an efficient sprinkler system, you can maintain the health of your lawn and garden, while saving time and conserving water.
Extreme Irrigation & Law is here to help you with a new sprinkler system installation. Our team of professionals provides quality care and services, such as repairs and installation. Call us today and request a quote!