Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Sprinkler Irrigation Systems

A sprinkler irrigation system is a convenient way to water lawns, crops, and shrubs, similar to rainfall. Water is distributed through a network of irrigation pipes, then sprayed into the air, and the entire soil surface is watered by spray heads. The sprinklers or spray heads release water into small droplets that fall on the ground.

If you are considering installing a sprinkler system in your yard on your own or hiring an irrigation professional to do the job, the following sprinkler system FAQs and their answers can help get you started in the most convenient and efficient way to water your lawn and landscape.

You probably have many questions you would like to ask before deciding to purchase an automatic sprinkler system. This article answers the most asked questions about sprinkler and lawn irrigation systems.

1. Why Should I Install a Sprinkler Irrigation System in my Yard?

Sprinkler systems are installed for convenience. It takes a long time to water the lawn by hand, and if you don't watch, it's easy to overwater. You won't even need to switch off your system when it rains if the right irrigation system is installed. It will turn off on its own. Installing a sprinkler system will reduce your water usage, save you time, improve your lawn's health, and enhance your home's appearance and market value.

Learn all about using sprinklers in landscape and garden!

2. How do Automatic Sprinkler Systems Save my Time?

With an automatic sprinkler system, you won't have to spend another minute of your precious leisure time watering your lawn and landscape. Your new system will handle all of the watering for you. Even when you are away on vacation, your sprinkler system will use its automated timer to water your yard for a preset amount of time.

3. What are the main components of the Automatic Sprinkler System?

A typical automatic sprinkler system consists of:

• Sprinklers (which distribute water to the yard)
• Valves (which release and stop water flow into different zones)
• Controller or Timer (which acts as the brain of the system and manages when, how often, and for how long to water)
• Pipes (which carry water from the source to the sprinklers)

The sprinkler system can be customized further with rain sensors, soil moisture sensors, pressure regulators, backflow preventers, and drip irrigation zones.

It is best if all the system's components are sourced from the same high-quality brand to ensure they work well together. DripWorks carries the most complete line of components from top brands to build an efficient lawn irrigation system.

4. Can I install a Sprinkler System on my own?

Yes, you can. However, you should consider all the aspects of this project before you start the installation. Whether you should install it yourself depends on your yard size and skills. Understand your yard, the time required, and the tools needed to complete the job. Depending on the size of your landscape, a DIY installation could take more than a few days. Sprinkler system installation is possible for small to medium yards, but professional installation ensures head-to-head coverage, prevents dry spots, saves money and frustration in the long run.

5. How can I program my Sprinkler System Controller?

Sprinkler irrigation controllers or timers function as the brain of the system. The controller controls the entire system according to a preset program rather than opening valves manually. They automatically tell your sprinklers when to water, at what time, for how long, and which zone to water. First, make sure the controller's current date and time are correct.

The basic controller usually needs three inputs to work:

Watering days: What days of the week does it need to turn on?

Start times: What time should the watering start? It just requires one start time.

Run time per zone: How long does the system need to run?

You can set up multiple schedules on a controller. If you add these three inputs to a program, it will run that schedule automatically. To disable a program, remove one of the inputs.

6. Can I Save Money by Installing My Own Irrigation System?

If you know how to use simple tools, dig trenches, and follow technical guidelines, a DIY project can save you a significant amount of money. You should remember that the product cost is only one part of an efficient irrigation system.

Some homeowners successfully complete DIY installations, especially for small or basic lawns. However, installing a sprinkler irrigation system requires proper design, water pressure calculations, and proper placement. Therefore, many landscapers choose to hire an experienced irrigation professional to design and install the most cost-effective and efficient lawn irrigation systems.

7. What Type of Sprinklers Should I Use?

The ideal choice of sprinkler depends on your lawn size, plant type, soil type, and water pressure. The best sprinklers should produce larger, heavier droplets of water because they are less affected by wind and evaporation. Also, the heavier water droplet lands exactly where it needs to be. You can choose from rotary, pop-up, impact, and traveling sprinklers. Rotary sprinkler heads are the most efficient, as they produce a more uniform water distribution.

Discover: The 5 Best Sprinklers for Lawns and Gardens in 2025

8. Do I Need to Winterize my Sprinkler System?

If you live in a climate where temperatures fall near or below freezing, you must winterize your sprinkler system. This is a crucial task to do before the first freeze of the season. Remove all the water from your pipes and heads before the first deep freeze. Cover the exposed system components with insulating materials. If water is left in pipes and sprinklers, it'll freeze and expand, causing cracks. This type of damage is costly to repair and often requires digging up areas of your yard.

On the other hand, if you live in a warm climate where temperatures never drop below 0°C (32°F), winterizing may not be necessary. However, seasonal maintenance is still recommended.

Learn How to Winterize Your Sprinkler System: Easy DIY Maintenance Tips

9. What is Proper Maintenance of a Sprinkler Irrigation System?

Proper maintenance on a sprinkler system, at least twice a year, is critical. It includes regularly inspecting the system, cleaning the sprinklers, adjusting sprinkler heads, and immediately repairing all damaged components so the system delivers water efficiently without waste.

We recommend a complete system inspection in early spring and again in winter to protect against freezing damage. You need to check your system for leaks, broken connections, damaged pipes, or misdirected sprinkler heads. Take a few minutes each month to check that your irrigation system is working properly. A well-maintained lawn irrigation system keeps your grass greener, reduces your water bills, and prevents costly faults.

10. How to Detect Leaks or Faults in Sprinkler Systems?

A wet or soggy spot in the yard is the most obvious sign of a leak in the system. You should regularly inspect your irrigation system for any visible signs of leaks. Turn on each irrigation zone and inspect it individually. Check for puddles, wet spots, hissing sounds, extra-green or unusually damp areas in the yard that could indicate a leak in the sprinklers or underground pipes.

In addition, look for water pooling around valves, connections, and fittings. You can also inspect the water meter. If any leak is found, you can isolate it to the sprinklers by closing the backflow valve. There may be a leak even if the meter does not consistently show one. Some leaks only occur when the system works. Look for an unexpected spike in water bills as a sudden increase in water usage is a major sign.

Also Read:Upgrading Your Sprinkler System for Spring: Homeowner's Guide

The Bottom Line

If you're ready to install a new sprinkler irrigation system and enjoy the vibrant yard you always wanted, visit the DripWorks store online now to get high-quality sprinkler systems from reputable brands. DripWorks lawn irrigation systems will help you enjoy your well-watered lawn, stop worrying about watering.