An automated sprinkler system is the best and most convenient way to maintain a lush and vibrant lawn all spring, summer, and fall. The smart technology behind modern irrigation systems goes far beyond the basics of simply turning the water on and off. Today’s systems are designed to provide the best hydration coverage while reducing water waste as much as possible.

Considering the installation of a new underground watering system? Homeowners have a lot of questions to ask when making that decision. Here are some of the most common ones.

Advanced irrigation systems use a combination of innovative technology and reliable equipment to reduce water usage.

1. How does an automated sprinkler system save water?

An automated sprinkler system dramatically reduces the amount of water wasted compared to using a hose, even with attachments, in every watering session. A professionally installed system is crafted to deliver the exact amount of water needed exactly where it needs to go. Efficient distribution is key, and other watering methods are unable to equal the same level of accuracy, which means that some parts of the lawn get too much water, and others not enough!

2. Are irrigation systems safe for pets and kids?

Most irrigation systems are safe for yards where kids and pets play. The system will not spray harmful chemicals or substances, and installers can avoid high-traffic play areas by directing spray arcs away from them. Low-precipitation sprayers are also less likely to startle or disturb children or pets who are outside while sprinklers are running. Another benefit is that the slower precipitation rates of sprinklers allow water to be fully absorbed into the soil, meaning fewer muddy spots that can lead to animals and kids unintentionally damaging the lawn.

The Rachio 3 makes monitoring your system easy through a handy & intuitive mobile app!

3. How do smart watering systems integrate weather technology?

Advanced systems come with cutting-edge weather monitoring features that prevent watering when there’s rain, high wind, or freezing temperatures. Skipping or delaying a watering session during these weather conditions enables the system to conserve water, preventing waste and lowering utility bills.

This is achieved through smart sensors and advanced controllers. For example, one of the most popular controllers on the market today, the Rachio 3, is connected to a comprehensive network of National Weather Service automated observation stations. This allows the controller to collect the most accurate weather data (which may vary from one area of Kansas City to another) and use it to determine when and if a watering session should be delayed, and for how long.

4. How often do sprinkler systems need inspections?

Regular maintenance is essential in extending the lifespan of a system and catching any possible breaks or leaks that could waste water. Typical home irrigation systems with regular use should be professionally audited around twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall, often during sprinkler startups and shutdowns.

Professional sprinkler blowouts in the fall are essential in protecting your system from freeze damage.

5. Why is sprinkler winterization important?

Winterization is key to protecting your system during the colder months. Water left within a system freezes and expands, leading to burst pipes, cracked valves, broken sprinkler heads, and more. This damage can accelerate quickly, leaving homeowners with a very expensive repair bill. Worse yet, these breakages often go unnoticed for some period of time, which can lead to excessive water waste. All too often, it’s not until an extremely high water bill arrives that homeowners realize something has gone awry with their system.

Professional sprinkler winterizations are the best way to ensure a system’s safety during the winter. Irrigation pros use specialized equipment to remove every drop of water safely and effectively from a system.

The team at Heinen has over 35 years of experience in the irrigation industry!

6. Why is it best to hire a professional for sprinkler installation?

An irrigation professional will tailor every system to best serve each property’s specific watering needs. Their expertise covers every detail of design and installation, from the best quality components to the most efficient usage of water. With a strong understanding of plant, grass, and soil types, they will determine the best zone configuration and watering schedule for each lawn and landscape, all fully compliant with local codes. Best of all, homeowners have peace of mind when it comes to their sprinkler system’s performance and durability.

Bring whatever questions you may have about irrigation to the experts at Heinen! Click to send the Heinen irrigation professionals a message online or call Debbie at (913) 362-8439 to schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of Heinen’s irrigation experts!