It is that time of year when many homeowners are considering installing a new irrigation system or replacing an existing system. There are several items that you should consider before deciding. A quality system that is well maintained will last you 15 -20 years. Here is a simple checklist to guide you in your decision process:

  1. Assess your needs.
    1. What are you irrigating? Will it be lawn, shrubs, trees, an entire yard, part of the yard? Etc. 
    2. Size of area.
    3. Climate and soil type. Sandy soils need frequent watering more often while clay soils hold water longer. Sunny vs. shade.
  2. Types of Irrigation Systems
    1. Rotary sprinklers for large lawn areas.
    2. Spray sprinklers for small lawn areas and or shrubs.
    3. Drip irrigation for perimeter plantings or garden beds.
    4. Micro irrigation for flowerpots and window boxes.
  3. Water Efficiency
    1. Choose drip irrigation for perimeter plants and shrub beds.
    2. Install a rain sensor to prevent over watering.
    3. Choose a Smart Controller that works with real time weather data.
  4. Water Source
    1. Where will the irrigation draw its water? Will it be from the water service that supplies the home? A WELL? Are there restrictions, codes, and requirements from your water district and town? 
  5. Installation and Maintenance
    1. If its in the budget, choose better grade equipment to install. Every manufacturer produces irrigation equipment that is good, better, and best to meet different price points. The labor is usually the same for installing the best vs. the good. The best equipment lasts longer with less problems and over the life of the system is the greatest value. 
    2. There is yearly maintenance that is required to ensure the system is operating as it should. This includes the spring start up in the beginning of the season and winterizing at the end of the year. 
    3. Water Management. This is important. Who will manage the watering? As the season moves from spring to summer to fall the controller will have to be adjusted accordingly. Decreasing/increasing  the run times and frequency of each zone as the weather changes. 
  1. Local Regulations & Water supply
    1. Check your locale for water restrictions, permits, and pressure availability. Long Island is a unique area in that there are two counties, thirteen towns, over 100 villages, and 50 water companies. They are all different in terms of their requirements!
  2. Irrigation Contractors
    1. Choose an irrigation contractor that is licensed and insured.
    2. A member of the Better Business Bureau.
    3. Experienced.
    4. Provides a detailed written proposal.
    5. Provides a warranty.
    6. Provides customer service and support. 

A beautiful landscape is a valuable investment and the cost to maintain a sprinkler system that sustains a healthy landscape is far less expensive than replacing lawn, shrubs, and trees. To learn more please visit our website at www.rainrich.com. To arrange an appointment please call the office at 631-423-2211 or click here. We look forward to serving you!