How will the Backflow Preventer be installed?
PVC is one of the most common kinds of pipe used in sprinkler systems today. And while it is a good choice, copper is a better one.  We use copper everywhere it is appropriate to help extend the life and durability of your system.  Over time, PVC often becomes brittle which means it will break or crack fairly easily if it’s hit by a shovel for example.   When copper pipe is used, this problem is significantly reduced.

What kind of manifold will be used?
At My Sprinkler Guys, we use an expandable manifold system that allows sections to be added, removed or repaired by simply screwing them on or off.  Many other contractors use glue to join pieces of PVC, which means any fixes or updates will involve cutting out and re-gluing which is more time consuming and more costly in the long run.

Will all outdoor wiring be heavy duty and protected?
There are many small details that are important to keeping your system functioning well and minimizing maintenance issues. For example, outdoor wire splices should be water tight as well as enclosed in a heavy duty valve box. The attention to detail (or not) is another way to determine which company is the best one to hire.

How will the sprinkler heads be connected underground?
It is very common for irrigation companies to run the zone line underground, place a tee insert into this line where the heads are installed, and then add a riser to get the head to the correct height.  The problem with this type of installation is the riser can split when hit with a bike tire or piece of lawn equipment.

A better way to install the head is to use a flexible piece of tubing from the main pipe to the head. This allows the head to move and flex slightly which makes less stress on the fittings, reduces repairs and increases the life of the system.

Will all sprinkler heads point away from the house?
This may sound obvious, but some contractors will not set them up this way which means water will repeatedly spray the side of your home. Some may suggest it will save you money because they are creating fewer zones by configuring them like this. However, in the long run, the repeated water spray can damage the side of your home as well as your foundation.

Are both companies installing the same number of zones? If not, why not?
We realize many people are looking for ways to cut costs when purchasing a sprinkler system.  However, installing fewer zones than you really need can actually increase your costs in the long term. For example, without the right amount of zones it’s likely some spots will be missed. Your system will also be less efficient because it’s covering more area than it is intended to handle and that can mean higher water bills.

Fewer zones require a smaller box, which will cost less. However, if there is a need to add a zone later, both the manifold and the control box would need to be upgraded along with running the new line. What might look like a $400 savings at first, could end up costing $800 to add to a system that could have been more efficient in the first place.

One more consideration to make when comparing zones and overall cost  is how flowerbeds and gardens will be covered. A drip system will often be more efficient and use less water, but it may cost slightly more initially.

Will the sprinklers near concrete be placed far enough away to allow room for a lawn edger or snow blower?

One of the most common ways to damage sprinkler heads is to run them over with lawn equipment.  This can be partially avoided by installing heads far enough from the edge of driveways and sidewalks so that they aren’t hit by snow blowers and edgers.

Unfortunately, not all contractors will consider all of these factors when designing your system. At my Sprinkler Guys, we cover all this and more because we want your sprinkler system to be as efficient as possible and to last for many years to come.

If you have more questions about sprinkler systems or if you would like a quote, please contact us at 586-477-4243.

The yard needs to be watered so you drag out a hose and moveable sprinkler and put it down in the first area. A little while later, you have to do another area so your choice is move it quickly and get wet, or run and turn off the water, move everything, then run and turn the water back on again. This happens several times a week or maybe even every day, which ties up your valuable time and energy. In addition, sometimes, even with your best effort, there is an area or two that just doesn’t seem to get enough water and you struggle to keep it green.

For some people, watering/sprinkling this way works just fine. However, if it’s not working so well for you, there certainly are alternatives. Often, installing an automatic sprinkler system is a significantly better answer in the long run. Here are just a few reasons why.

1. You will save water

One of the biggest differences between hand watering and a professionally installed system is the amount of water that is used. Even though automatic sprinklers will likely run more often than you might water yourself, they can use up to 30% less water. One reason is because in-ground systems are designed to water each area appropriately rather than giving the same level to everything, whether needed or not. And of course, saving water means you’ll also save money on your water bill.

2. Your lawn and plants will be healthier

When plants and grass get the amount of moisture they need on a regular basis, they will be less stressed by changes in the weather. Just like people, when plants are not stressed they grow stronger and healthier. Strong healthy plants resist pests better and strong grass will often crowd out weeds.

3. You will save time

One of the key benefits of an automatic sprinkler system for most homeowners is the “automatic” part. Instead of having to plan an evening for running around the yard, everything is taken care of for you. In many cases, the system will run in the early morning hours while everyone is asleep and no one even notices.

As long as it is properly maintained, an automatic sprinkler system will provide many years of reliable, hassle free irrigation for your whole yard. If you would like to find out more about making the switch from doing it yourself, to having a professionally installed system, My Sprinkler Guys would be happy to provide a free estimate. Feel free call or reach us through our contact page.