In-Ground Sprinkler System 101 | How Do Sprinklers Work?
We pride ourselves on providing you with top quality information about sprinklers, no matter if you’re interested in having a sprinkler system professionally installed, or are simply learning more about the process from our sprinkler installation ultimate guide.
Why do we care so much about this? Well, because in-ground sprinkler systems are not only a great way to keep your lawn looking green and healthy, their watering efficiency actually helps preserve water for our communities.
What’s not to love about saving water and making the world a greener place?
Chances are if you’re reading this, you agree with us!
But, do you know how sprinkler systems actually work?
Keep reading to find out.
What Is An In-Ground Sprinkler System?
An in-ground sprinkler system is a network of underground pipes connected to a water source, like a well or city water supply. The pipes are fitted with sprinkler heads, which pop up from the ground and release water onto your lawn when the system is turned on.
The in-ground sprinkler systems we install are programmed to run on a schedule. That means you can set them to water your lawn several times per week for a certain amount of time - and then forget about it!
Not only do in-ground sprinkler systems save you time, but they can also save you money on your water bill.
That's because they're much more efficient than hand-watering your lawn. When you water by hand, it's easy to overdo it, leading to water waste, or even over-watered grass. But with an in-ground sprinkler system, you can be sure that your lawn is getting just the right amount of water.
The Different Parts of a Sprinkler System
In general, in-ground sprinkler systems have seven main components:
Water Source - This is the place where water enters the system. It can be a well, a city water supply, or even a rain barrel. Without a reliable water source, keeping your lawn or garden properly hydrated will be challenging.
Water Pipes - Pipes carry water from the water source to the sprinkler heads. In most cases, these pipes are made of PVC or polyethylene.
Water Pump - The most crucial part of the system, the water pump is responsible for moving water from the water source to the pipes.
Valves - Valves control how much water flows through the system.
Sprinkler Heads - Attached to the end of each pipe, sprinkler heads pop up out of the ground and release water onto your lawn or garden.
Backflow Preventer - This device is installed near the water source. Its purpose is to keep contaminated water from flowing back into your system and contaminating your water supply.
Control Panel or Timer - A control panel or timer is used to turn the system on and off and set how often and for how long it should run.
Some of these parts may be optional, depending on the size and complexity of your system.
The Benefits of Sprinkler Systems
There are many benefits to having an in-ground sprinkler system. In addition to saving you time and money, they can also:
Help Your Lawn or Garden Stay Healthy And Green
An in-ground sprinkler system can help your lawn or garden stay healthy and green by providing a consistent source of water.
Water is essential for plant growth, but it's not always easy to get right. Too little water will make your plants wilt and eventually die. But too much water can be just as harmful - it can lead to root rot and other problems.
With an in-ground sprinkler system, you can ensure that your plants are getting just the right amount of water. And that means they're more likely to stay healthy and green all season long.
Reduce Water Waste
Because in-ground sprinkler systems are so efficient, they can help reduce water waste.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, as much as 50% of our water outdoors is wasted. That's because it's easy to over-water your lawn or garden by hand.
But with an in-ground sprinkler system, you’re not only ensured you’re watering your lawn with the proper dose of water, but you’re also guaranteed to have a watering schedule optimized for the right times of the day.
Makes Watering Your Lawn or Garden Easy
Perhaps the best thing about in-ground sprinkler systems is that they make watering your lawn or garden easy.
With an in-ground sprinkler system, you can set it and forget it. Just set the timer, and the system will do the rest. That means you don't have to worry about watering your lawn or garden again.
How In-Ground Sprinkler Systems Work
We often take for granted how sprinklers work. We see them in action all the time - watering lawns, gardens, and golf courses.
But have you ever stopped to think about how sprinklers work?
In-ground sprinkler systems are relatively simple:
Water is pumped from the water source to the pipes.
The valves open and close to control how much water flows through the system.
When the valves are open, water flows through the pipes and out of the sprinkler heads.
The sprinkler heads are designed to release water in a specific pattern, depending on the type of sprinkler head.
Some heads rotate to distribute water over a large area evenly. Others oscillate back and forth or spray in a fixed direction.
The valves close when the timer reaches the end, and the system shuts off.
Some in-ground sprinkler systems are more complex than others. But they all work on the same basic principle. Either way, having an in-ground sprinkler system can save you time and money and help your lawn or garden stay healthy and green.
Final Thoughts
Investing in an in-ground sprinkler system is a big decision. But it can pay off in the long run.
If you're thinking about getting an in-ground sprinkler system, be sure to do your research. There are a lot of different systems on the market, and it's essential to find one that's right for you.
Once you have your new system installed, sit back and relax. Watering your lawn or garden will be a breeze from now on!