How to Save Money with Your Irrigation System

Sep 26, 2024 | Irrigation

As Indianapolis’ trusted irrigation experts, Haulstr has seen firsthand how the right investments can lead to significant savings over time. In this post, we’ll explore how choosing high-quality irrigation equipment and systems can benefit both your wallet and your landscape.

The True Cost of Cheap Irrigation System

  1. Frequent Repairs Man installing irrigation system : Lower-quality systems often break down more frequently, leading to costly repairs.
  2. Water Waste: Inefficient systems can waste water, increasing your utility bills.
  3. Landscape Damage: Poor irrigation can lead to overwatering or underwatering, potentially damaging your landscape.
  4. Pressure Problems: Systems without proper pressure regulation can lead to misting, overspray, and uneven coverage.

Benefits of Investing in Quality Irrigation

  1. Longer Lifespan: Quality systems last longer, reducing the need for replacements.
  2. Water Efficiency: Modern systems use water more efficiently, lowering your bills.
  3. Smart Technology: Advanced systems automatically adjust to weather conditions for optimal water use.
  4. Even Coverage: High-quality systems provide even water distribution for healthier plants.
  5. Pressure Regulation: Built-in pressure regulation ensures consistent performance across your landscape.

Cost-Saving Features to Look For

  1. Weather-based controllers: Adjust watering based on local weather data.
  2. Drip irrigation: Delivers water directly to plant roots, reducing waste.
  3. High-efficiency sprinkler heads: Distribute water more evenly and with less runoff.
  4. Leak detection systems: Quickly identify and address costly water leaks.
  5. Check valves: Prevent low-head drainage, conserving water and protecting your landscape.
  6. Pressure-regulating sprays and rotors: Maintain optimal performance and reduce water waste.

Spotlight on Check Valves

Check valves are crucial for conserving water, especially in landscapes with elevation changes. They:

  • Prevent low-head drainage
  • Reduce wear and tear by minimizing water hammer
  • Guard against backflow contaminationRain Bird’s Seal-A-Matic™ (SAM)
  • Protect your property from puddling and pooling

For example, Rain Bird’s Seal-A-Matic™ (SAM) check valves can hold back up to 14 feet of water, perfect for properties with elevation changes. 

The Power of Pressure Regulation

Pressure-regulating systems, such as Rain Bird’s Pressure Regulating Stem (PRS) technology, can lead to substantial water and cost savings:

  • At 60 PSI, PRS rotors can save up to 10% of water usage
  • At 75 PSI, savings can increase to 22%
  • For a typical household, this could translate to annual savings of $98 to $215 over the lifetime of the product

Similarly, PRS sprays can save:

  • 11% of water usage at 50 PSI
  • Up to 19% at 80 PSI
  • Potential lifetime savings ranging from $107 to $186 per household

Innovative Products for Maximum Efficiency

  1. MP Rotator Nozzles: These high-efficiency nozzles from Hunter Industries offer two precipitation rate options (0.4 in/hr and 0.8 in/hr) across a wide radius range, allowing for precise control over system design and water management.
  2. XFS-CV Dripline: Rain Bird’s subsurface dripline features a built-in check valve that provides 10 feet of hold-back—the highest in the industry—keeping lines charged and ready for the next irrigation cycle.
  3. Smart Controllers: Weather-based controllers adjust watering schedules based on local conditions, ensuring your landscape receives just the right amount of water.

Conclusion

Lawn sprinkler While the upfront cost of a high-quality irrigation system may be higher, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. By choosing systems with features like check valves, pressure regulation, and high-efficiency nozzles, you can significantly reduce water waste and lower your utility bills.

At Haulstr, we’re committed to helping Indianapolis homeowners and businesses make smart choices that save money and preserve our precious water resources. Our experts can help you design a system that maximizes efficiency and minimizes costs, ensuring a beautiful, healthy landscape for years to come.

Ready to upgrade your irrigation system and start saving? Contact Haulstr today for a consultation and learn how we can help you save money while keeping your landscape beautiful and healthy