5 Critical Indicators to Upgrade Your Irrigation System

Having a working irrigation system is key to properly maintaining your green space. While it’s important to service your existing irrigation system regularly, it’s also vital to know when to upgrade. How do you know the right time to do so? Read on to find out.

Common Signs You Need an Irrigation System UpgradeIrrigation systems require regular maintenance and annual checks to ensure that the system works efficiently and keeps your property looking great. But, when it’s time to upgrade, it depends on several factors, including your property and existing system.  The following are five critical indicators that it may be time to upgrade:

1. Water Usage IncreasesA good indication that your irrigation system needs a change is increased water usage. This can occur if your sprinkler heads are faulty and aren’t getting the water where it needs to go. It can also indicate a broken pipe, which can also use a lot of water.

2. Age of SystemAs an irrigation system ages, it tends to lose efficiency. You may notice that you have to increase your watering times to reach the same moisture level. It needs repair, or it may be time to consider a complete installation.

3. Problems with SchedulingIf your irrigation system has difficulty keeping up with your watering schedule, it may be time to consider a solution to the problem. The first step is to determine if the system itself has a problem or if your scheduling is the issue. A broken sprinkler head can be easily replaced, but an irrigation system that’s working at a reduced capacity may indicate a problem with the pipes. This is especially the case when you notice that the problem comes and goes. If there’s a sudden drop in water pressure but routinely returns to normal, you may have a broken pipe that requires repairs.

4. Root GrowthIf you’re noticing that tree roots are clogging your sprinkler system and pipes, you may want to consider an irrigation system upgrade. Shrubs and trees often do a great job of growing in the same area for many years. If your sprinkler heads and pipes are located too close to the shrubs, then they may be clogging the lines. It’s best to move your sprinkler lines to a different location or consider adding additional sprays.

5. Drip SystemsIf you’re replacing your sprinkler system with a drip system, you may want to consider a change. Drip irrigation systems are more efficient than sprinkler systems, so water is used more effectively. The use of drip systems has increased in recent years and is expected to continue to grow. However, they’re still not being used as often as they should be. While you may pay a little more for drip irrigation, you’ll save on water costs since they’re much more efficient.

The Right Time to Upgrade Your Irrigation SystemIt’s challenging to determine precisely when you should upgrade your irrigation system. However, if you’re noticing any of the issues above, it’s probably time to consider a change. It’s also a good idea to have an irrigation system check every year, as this attention to maintenance will help ensure that your system works effectively. DSLD Land Management is a full-service design/build landscape contractor firm in Birmingham, AL. Our landscape contractors can help you set up an efficient irrigation system. Contact us!