Sprinkler System FAQs

Prices typically start in the $2,000 range with the average being around $3500-$4500, depending on your needs. Of course, the larger the area, the more expensive the system. Getting an estimate will usually cost you nothing, so finding out what your particular costs will be is the first step. We suggest that you whittle down your list of possible installers and then get an estimate.

2. How are zones determined for a sprinkler system?

Zones are simply the areas that require more or less watering or the areas that require watering at particular times. Zones can include:

• Extremely shady grass areas
• Sunny grass areas
• Shrubs
• Gardens

3. What are the components of a sprinkler system?

Your system is made up of:

• a controller (a small computer that controls the timing and activation of the system)
• piping (typically PVC) laid a foot or two under the surface of your lawn and garden
• sprinkler heads (rotor, spray heads or drip lines)
• valves (which open and close the water flow)

4. What is the installation process like?

It typically takes a day or two to install a sprinkler system, depending on the size of the job and any special needs. It will only take a few weeks for any lawn seams from the installation to disappear.

5. How do you ensure that my new system’s settings are effective?

We set the time on each zone according to your site and soil conditions. Newer systems also have seasonal percentage buttons to increase or decrease irrigation time without affecting the overall settings.

6. What kind of maintenance is involved with a sprinkler system?

To maintain your system, we recommend that you have a system professional out during your opening and/or closing months – at least until you get comfortable learning how to open and close the system. You can also follow a spring and fall checklist if it doesn’t void your warranty and if you know what you’re doing. This checklist includes:

• Ensuring that manual drain valves are closed before turning water on to the system.
• Slowly opening the main water valve to allow pipes to fill gradually.
• Ensuring that each zone is functioning properly by manually activating it from the controller. We suggest that you walk through each zone, checking for proper function and pressure. Clean filters on spray heads that are not performing well.
• If you have a rain sensor, check to see that it is in good shape.
• Clean filters for drip zones.
• Reprogram the controller, if needed.

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To winterize, we strongly recommend that you have your system “blown out,” which removes water from the lines.

7. How much will I save by installing a system?

Timewise, your savings is massive if you’ve been properly watering your lawn and gardens. Moneywise, it can be hard to calculate, but a good system that is set right can save a lot. Watering during the best times of day can conserve up to 50% or more of the water you’d use during less than ideal watering times. And if you’re using rainbarrels to carry some of the load, the savings is that much better because you’re not paying for the irrigation water in the first place.

8. I’ve seen irrigation kits online or in stores. What’s your “word to the wise” about a DIY installation?

It depends on what you’re installing. A simple dripline from a hose is something most people can handle with little concern. Beyond that, I’d think that you’d almost intuitively know if installing a system is within your skill range. If you do your research and are comfortable with plumbing and electrical work, you can probably install your own system for around $1500 or so.

9. As far as professional installation is concerned, what is the licensing requirement in the state of Illinois?

In Illinois, a contractor must obtain the signature after being certified by a master plumber. After obtaining the master plumber’s support, the contractor fills out an application to the state and is registered as an irrigation contractor.

And there you have it: Our Sprinkler System FAQs.

Didn’t find the answer to your question here? Feel free to contact us, and we’ll get back with you as soon as possible.