Irrigation Checklist

Design

• Visit the site and study the layout. Do not go only off the plot plans to design the irrigation system.
• Take plant growth including trees and shrubs into account when designing and placing sprinklers and mirco-irrigation to help reduce future maintenance problems.
• Make sure the irrigation design strives for ZERO over spray onto streets, driveways, sidewalks, enterances, parking areas, etc.
• Design spacing of sprinkler heads with a minimum of "head-to-head" coverage
• Use separate watering zones for areas with different water use needs
• Work to avoid surface runoff. Different areas such as sloped areas may need different equipment or watering cycle times
• Where appropriate use drip irrigation to save water

Installation

• Contact appropriate local utility company to locate underground cables, telephone, gas or electric lines, etc.
• If the irrigation design changes from the design plan or job requirments, discuss the changes with an irrigation system designer for any system or equipment adjustments
• After installation - Test the system

Related Articles

• Underground Lawn Sprinkler Systems - Maintaining a beautiful lawn during hot, dry summers along with the added restrictions on water use is a problem for many home owners across America. We have one of two choices. Either we water the lawn the best we can and try to save it, or we give up and let nature apply the torch
• Artificial Grass A Southern California Landscaping Option - Question: I’ve been looking at artificial grass to replace my natural grass in our landscape. I live in southern California where water use and restrictions are an ongoing battle and I’ve noticed others buying synthetic grass. What are the advantages and pay-off installing artificial grass here in the LA - San Diego area? Michael Orange