Often than not, using a sprinkler irrigation system method is perceived as a wasteful or non-precise irrigation method.

This is far from the truth, as many homeowners far and wide testify of their effectiveness and productivity. From plant propagation and irrigation to frost mitigation and cooling. It’s a whole lot. You might be surprised to discover how and why sprinkler systems can be the exact solution to your farm, lawns and any other area of concern.

You may wonder what type of sprinkler irrigation system is right for you. But you don’t know where to begin. (You don’t want to make the wrong decision).

The system that will work best for you depends on factors like the type of landscaping and the size of your yard. Before we examine what type of sprinkler irrigation systems might be the answer to your ‘irrigation prayers’, let’s go over the basics of sprinkler irrigation systems.

What is a sprinkler irrigation system?

When you witness rainfalls, you must have observed how droplets of water get equally distributed among all the crop planted in a field. Those plants seem to ‘come back to life’ because they have gained an adequate amount of water after each rainfall. This way of natural rainfall is the technology behind the sprinkler irrigation system. Sprinkler irrigation system is a method of applying irrigation water that is similar to rain.

This is how it works

A system of pipes distribute water through pumping. The water is then sprayed into the air and irrigates entire soil surface through spray heads. This is to ensure that it breaks up into small water drops and falls on the ground.

In other words, sprinkler systems are similar to the way you might water a hose and spray the water out in all directions. The system is generally used to irrigate crops, lawns and other areas.

Now that we have that out of the way, what are the types of irrigation sprinkler systems? What are their pros and cons?

>> Traditional Spray system

This is one of the sprinkler irrigation systems that come to mind when you think of watering your lawn. It uses a pop-up head to spray water in the area surrounding it. Homeowners enjoy the widespread water coverage that this sprinkler irrigation system provides, they are inefficient when compared to other types, and therefore are infamous.

One disadvantage of traditional spray systems is that they spray too much water that the ground can’t absorb, hence. leading to wasted water.

 

>> Rotor Systems

Rotor systems are more efficient than traditional spray systems in the sense that they apply water at a much slower rate, which allows the soil to absorb moisture more efficiently.

Also, they are capable of covering a wider area in your yard. Before now, the system was solely used on larger yards, but there are newer models specifically designed to accommodate smaller areas.

With this system, it keeps getting better and better, as rotor sprays allow you to adjust the nozzle to control the spread of the water.

 

>> Drip system

If energy efficiency is a bother to you, drip sprinkler irrigation systems, (also known as micro-sprays) are your best bet. Like the name ‘drip’ implies, water is released slowly, allowing the soil to absorb the water and avoid runoffs. The weakness of traditional spray system is its strength: water is not wasted.

Another plus side to drip system is that it works well in windy conditions. Since water is distributed directly to the ground, instead of sprayed into the air, wind does not affect its effectiveness.

The ‘but’?

The but to this system is that parents think twice before installing this type of system because it could be a tripping hazard for their kids.

 

>> Soaker Hoses

Many gardeners are familiar with soaker hoses, and although they are not technically sprinklers. They are a type of irrigation system which homeowners consider before making a final decision. They are used to thoroughly water individual plants or dense plantings.
This type of irrigation system is peculiar because instead of emitting water through a nozzle, water flows throughout the entire length of the hose.  For homeowners with dense landscaping that is difficult to water, soaker hoses are a wise choice.

 

As we all know, irrigation is necessary, and, understandably, this is a big deal to you. Fortunately, with over 30 years of experience, we at ACS-Irrigation have seen it all and can be of help.

Deciding what sprinkler irrigation system to use is one thing, installing it is another thing. When a sprinkler irrigation system is not installed properly, issues begin to spring up sooner than later. We want to help you curtail this!

Also, if issues do spring up later such as clogged nozzles, leaks and other problems associated with sprinkler irrigation systems, we have experienced techs that offer quick, cost-effective and top-notch repair services!

We are just a call away @ (813)575-2271! Good-luck in your choice of a sprinkler irrigation system!