Sprinkler Systems
How Lawn Sprinkler Systems Work | DIY Watering Guide
Out of all possible irrigation options, sprinkler systems have a specific mode of operation. Water is sprayed into the air and then essentially rains down on all vegetation. Nevertheless, sprinkler systems for lawns, gardens, and yards have been designed with specific needs and spaces in mind, and it's up to you, as a landscaper or homeowner, to determine which is better for your grounds.
Sprinkler systems fall into the following types:
- Fixed sprinklers spray water in a single pattern over an area. Although designed for smaller yards, this option is better for hard-to-reach places and is considered more economical.
- Oscillating sprinklers are characterized by a back and forth motion. This gentle, even stream particularly benefits medium-sized yards.
- Impact or Impulse sprinklers spray a single jet of water in a circle, reaching a wider area while still using low pressure. This sprinkler system also has less of a tendency to clog.
- Rotating sprinklers have two or more arms, which spray water through small holes to cover a large rectangular area. Water is evenly distributed over a medium-sized lawn. Adjustable features are an advantage for these sprinkler systems.
- Tractor or Traveling sprinklers are attached to the hose and, with a platform, move throughout a yard, distributing water evenly across the surface. Such an option is ideal for uneven or oddly-shaped spaces requiring equal watering throughout.
- In-Ground or Pop-Up sprinklers also provide full coverage over a large yard. However, through timers and controllers, this network of sprinklers can be divided up into zones or scheduled to water at certain intervals during the day.
- Hose sprinklers are ideal for localized or small areas, providing a low flow of water to plants and gardens.
Within these sprinkler systems are multiple factors to consider before buying. Determine, first, how large of an area requires water. Also, consider how often the lawn needs to be watered; this amount, however, can vary throughout the year. Take into account, additionally, climate, hard to reach spots, and how much time you have to tend to the lawn. If you have less time, an automatic sprinkler system can be programmed to water the lawn – or even certain parts of it – at various points throughout the day. You don't need to be home for your grass to be properly nourished.
In addition to an automatic timer, consider adding a flow timer or control feature. In some cases, parts of yards may require more water than others, and this feature distributes the spray according to your specifications. An automatic shut-off valve additionally guards against water-logging – a potential cause if a hose sprinkler is not turned off.