Common Irrigation System Mistakes & How To Avoid Them

Thankfully, not too many people try to take on installing an irrigation system as a do-it-yourself project. However, it happens from time to time. When it does, and the person trying the installation has no experience, several different types of mistakes are made that require extensive repair. These are a few of the more common ones that we have seen over the years.

Running the Irrigation System at the Wrong Time of Day

This is mistake No. 1. Even though it’s not technically an installation mistake, it’s one we still want to point out because it is so egregious. These are just a few of the problems associated with running an irrigation system during the daytime:

• Irrigation systems are greatly affected by the wind, which typically blows the hardest during the daylight hours. This wastes water – as well as money – because water is being thrown onto houses, driveways and streets.
• Evaporation takes place the most, of course, while the sun is at its strongest. Whatever water you’re applying won’t have time to get into the root zone before evaporating.
• Even irrigating in the early part of the evening can sometimes be a problem because of the possibility of fungal disease occurring. Also unexpected freezes during the night can wreak havoc on wet landscaping.

Failing to Install a Rain Shut Off Device

This device is relatively inexpensive to install, however, you’d be surprised how many people neglect to do so. This is one of the largest irrigation system mistakes you can make. A rain shut off device can save as much as 15 percent off your annual irrigation system expenses. In fact, many areas require this device by law. If you don’t have one and a city code compliance offer spots your sprinkler going during a rainstorm, be prepared to pay a hefty fine.

Not Irrigating Shrubs and Planter Beds Separately from Grass

It’s extremely important that your grass is watered separately from your planter beds and shrubs. The reason is that the root systems of grasses are substantially smaller than those of shrubs, trees and most plants. If you’re watering both simultaneously, you’re wasting a great deal of water because your trees, plants, etc. only need about half as much water as grass.

If you have any questions about how to avoid irrigation system mistakes, call Andy’s Sprinkler at 817-608-0660 or contact us online. Better yet, simply get in touch with us so we can install your system instead.