Considering a Home Sprinkler System?
Many homeowners dream of an automatic sprinkler system...
especially after a few hot summer months of dragging water hoses around the yard,
or when investing time and money in a new landscape. But like any big expense, you
should spend some time evaluating your needs and learning about your options.
ASK YOURSELF:
Are you unable to use a
hose for watering?
If you are frequently out of town for long periods of time, or maneuvering a
hose is physically difficult for you, a sprinkler system may be helpful.
Does your property need it?
Consider the size of your property.
For most central and suburban lawns, a 50' or 100' hose or hose-end sprinkler
can reach to every corner of the yard. Do you need an irrigation system to
protect an extensive investment in your landscape, or particularly sensitive,
non-native plants? How many months out of the year do you water?
People with irrigation systems tend to water more than they would with water
hoses.
Can you afford it?
Typical installation
costs for an average yard (75' x 125') can be around $3,000. You should expect
to pay about $100 a year for system maintenance, and $45 - $90 monthly in
additional water costs.
If you do choose to purchase a sprinkler
system, it's advisable to get bids from at least three contractors licensed
with the State of Texas. Ask for references, license numbers, and a list of
all equipment included in the bid. Additionally, ask whether the job would
include a design for the system, and a parts and labor warranty.
When
exploring equipment options, ask the contractor about controllers that
can be scheduled to follow the City of Austin mandatory watering day schedule during the summer months.
Also, find out what types of minute-by-minute
settings, independent programs, and multiple start time features are available.
Make sure to include a rain shut-off device in the design, so that your
sprinkler system won't water while it's raining if you're not around (or awake)
to shut it off.
Your installed sprinkler system shouldn't mist or spray
an excessive amount of water onto sidewalks or streets. Your system should also
let you water plant and grass areas separately. Planting groups of plants with
similar water needs in the same area (hydrozoning) lets you use water as efficiently
as possible... without over- or under-watering.
Whether you install a
sprinkler system yourself or hire a professional, remember to purchase pemits
and install appropriate backflow prevention. For information on sprinkler permits,
call the City of Austin at 974-2747. Texas backflow prevention guidelines can
be found online.
For irrigation installation or repairs, contact a licensed irrigator from
our
WaterWise Irrigation Professional list (pdf).
The irrigation professionals on this list have completed the City of Austin WaterWise
training. For a list of licensed irrigators in other areas, contact
the
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
