Anyone who has decided to boost the value of their home with a sprinkler irrigation system (or is even thinking about it) may be tempted to do the installation themselves, thinking there is a DIY cost saving. But here are some very good reasons to hire a professional.
1. Design
The design of an irrigation system is not simply a matter of deciding where to place sprinklers. You also need to know such factors as the flow and pressure of water available and how to compensate for too much or too little. You need to know what types of nozzles to use (and there is a dizzying variety to choose from) and where to place them for maximum coverage. These and all other aspects of irrigation systems are well known to professional installers and will save you the cost and hassle of an improperly designed system.
2. Components
A water system framework consists of a wide range of parts. There are pipes, valves, electrical segments, links and connectors, channels, discharge preventers, regulators, couplers, producers, and possibly a siphon, to give some examples. A professional knows how to properly select, position, and install the correct components.
3.Trenching
This part of the process can be quite physically strenuous, especially if done manually with a trench shovel. Or you can rent a trenching machine from your local rental equipment dealer (but it should not be used for digging on steep slopes, near buildings, or through flower beds or ground covers). How deep should the trenches be for the most lines? For the sides? And all the unforeseen obstacles like rocks or tree roots? (Not to mention water, cable, or telephone lines, the location of which must be confirmed before beginning any excavation.) How about having to make trenches under the pavement? A professional has the equipment to easily handle whatever comes up.
4. Laying and Preparation of pipes
First, you need to select the correct type and size of pipes. And you most likely won’t be able to get the pipe pre-cut to the precise lengths you need, so you will have to cut the pipes to size and then put the pieces together. Properly preparing and installing selected tubing and fittings so that they are clean and remain tight is key to preventing future leaks.
5. Valves
A valve is a device that controls the flow of water through the pipe by opening, closing, or partially obstructing the passage. Each circuit in your irrigation system is regulated by a valve. Ah, but what kind of valve? A globe valve? An angle valve? An anti-siphon valve? On the floor? Online? Should I use a backflow prevention device on each individual valve? A professional installer will select and install your valves correctly.
6. Wiring
The size and type of cable to use depend on a number of factors, such as the particular model of valve you are using and the distance between the valve and the controller. The location of the wiring to the control valves is also important to avoid accidental damage. A professional installer is an expert in incorrect wiring.
7. Types of spray heads
The list of different types of heads is overwhelming for many people. There are fixed spouts, sway rotors, gear-driven rotors, huge turf rotors, spring-up heads, bubblers, and many others in a variety of sizes, shapes, brands, and styles. Each has its own uses and applications. A professional installer knows which type to use for the size and shape of your garden.
8. Appending the sprinkler head
After determining which type of sprinkler system installations will work best, the professional installer also knows how to properly space and position them for maximum coverage and eliminate water waste that occurs with overspray and overflow or when factors, for example, soil type, steep inclines, or obstacles are not considered.
9. Filtration & Drivers
Like all systems that use water, your system needs a filtration system to get rid of any particles or contaminants from the water system. Some filtration systems will notify a controller when these particles have accumulated on the screen to a predetermined level. The controller sends a signal to rinse the screen and carry the particles down the drain. A professional installer knows what type of filtration system to install and the best strategic location for it.
The controller is the “brain of the operation”. Program the irrigation schedule: time, frequency, and duration. What’s more, there are regulators that will do many, a lot more things. There are Wi-Fi controllers that will connect to your cell phone or tablet for remote operation. However, there are controllers that will regulate the system based on local weather conditions. There are devices and controllers which will decide whether or not activating the system supports the moisture content of the soil.
They can monitor and record the flow. So, You can get controllers which will regulate different schedules for multiple zones. There are metal housings, plastic housings, stainless steel housings, wall mounts, and pedestal types. The options are almost endless. The professional installer will help you navigate the maze to select the right driver for your new system. Above all, take a visual reading, Look for areas of taller grass or grass that is greener than the surrounding areas. This may mean that these areas get more nourishment from the water below.
Repairing of sprinkler system
When a sprinkler line leak is found in the ground, you will first need to dig to unearth it. Using a shovel or flat-blade shovel, carefully excavate the area of the suspected leak. So, most lines are fairly shallow but can be as deep as eight inches. In some cases, they can be only two to three inches deep.
To repair the line, you will need to cut the damaged section. Many of the favored sprinkler kits use a versatile polyline. Take this to the home center to purchase the correct repair supplies. You should be ready to find a replacement line, alongside brass or plastic adapters to attach the replacement to the prevailing line.
So, A properly designed, selected, installed, and maintained irrigation system will deliver exactly the right amount of water at the right time at the lowest possible operating cost. Keep your landscape vibrant and lush and your costs low with a professionally installed system.
