There are many misconceptions floating around when it comes to automated irrigation systems. One hard fact, though, is that watering accurately is difficult when done by hand. So, for the edification of homeowners with lawns and landscaping to keep healthy and green, here are five myths about underground sprinkler systems debunked.
Watering accurately is hard to accomplish when done by hand.
1. Automated sprinkler systems use more water.
Most of the time, this is simply not true, especially with all the advancements in the irrigation industry. Smart programming and innovative components are making sprinkler systems highly efficient and more effective.
Systems are divided into zones, each with its watering needs determined by factors such as sun exposure, slope, plant/grass types, soil type, and more. Professionals consider all these factors and calculate exactly how much water each zone needs to thrive. The system is then programmed to deliver precisely the right amount of water to each area. Also, new sprinkler heads and sprayers are designed with slower precipitation rates, resulting in much less water loss from wind or runoff.
2. It’s best to overwater your grass.
While over and underwatering grass can be extremely damaging, the latter is the lesser of two evils. Overwatering grass can put a lawn at risk for erosion problems, leaching out all the nutrients and causing structural issues if it occurs near the home. Also, overwatering makes a lawn susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases. Finally, overwatering a lawn is throwing money down the drain!
Each sprinkler zone will have its own watering needs.
3. All irrigation zones need to run for the same amount of time.
Each zone within a sprinkler system will have its watering needs, which may require different run times for each sprinkler. Grassy expanses need much more water than landscape beds, while sunny areas need more than shaded ones, as evaporation removes some water not absorbed right away. Again, irrigation professionals can help determine exactly how long each sprinkler in each zone should run.
4. It doesn’t matter when sprinklers are run.
When a system runs plays a significant role in its efficiency. Sprinklers should run in the early morning hours right before sunrise, especially during the warmest months. Running sprinklers during the hottest hours of the day increases evaporation and wastes water. Running sprinklers early in the morning gives water plenty of time to be absorbed, making plants and grass more resilient to high temperatures. Watering at night can trap too much moisture in the soil. Without sunlight to evaporate excess water, lawns are at risk of developing damaging fungal diseases.
The KC Sprinkler Pros are the city’s go-to team for all things irrigation!
5. All sprinkler systems are the same.
An underground sprinkler system is an investment that saves time, water, and, most importantly, money, but only with the installation of a quality system. That’s why it is essential to work with an irrigation team that has the experience and know-how to design, build, and maintain high-efficiency systems. Working with a reliable team from the beginning avoids costly repairs and replacements later. A professionally installed, quality-built system can last upwards of 20 years.
The KC Sprinkler Pros have served the Kansas City area for almost two decades. Over the years, they have proven time and time again their commitment to providing each and every client with superior customer service and dependable irrigation systems. They understand that a new sprinkler system is a major home improvement, so the team is always ready to answer any questions homeowners may have.
