Sprinkler Vs Drip Irrigation - Here’s What To Consider Before Choosing
The hot, dry weather here in Arizona means that it is important to keep your property irrigated; both sprinkler systems and drip irrigation systems are effective ways to irrigate your property. However, there are advantages and disadvantages to each system. Sprinklers tend to be less expensive and water a larger surface area, while drip irrigation systems use water more efficiently and offer deeper waterings. There are 3 things you need to consider before deciding on a sprinkler or a drip irrigation system: how much they cost, how efficiently they use water, and how much yard coverage they provide.
How Much Does Each System Cost?
A sprinkler system typically costs approximately $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot depending on the size and layout of your property. Although they are cheaper than drip irrigation systems, sprinklers typically require extra planning and setup, so the cost of labor may increase the price.
Drip irrigation systems tend to be more expensive, costing about $2.50 to $4.50 per square foot. However, your lower water bills following the installation may end up compensating for the higher price of a drip irrigation system
Having a professional install your irrigation system allows them to set the system’s timer so it will irrigate your lawn at the optimal times.
How Efficiently Does Each System Use Water?
While they are more affordable and easier to use than a drip irrigation system, sprinkler systems are not as efficient with their water usage. Sprinklers are designed to evenly distribute water over your entire property, meaning that a sprinkler system could use more water than necessary by overwatering certain areas of your lawn while underwatering others. In addition, hot, dry weather is a staple in Arizona; on those hot, dry days, a lot of the water coming out of your sprinkler system can go to waste due to evaporation.
Drip irrigation systems use water much more efficiently than sprinklers do. Rather than spraying water over your entire property, drip irrigation allows you to direct the water exactly where it is needed the most. This means that every drop of water being used is going to a plant or area of your lawn that needs it, thus wasting a lot less water.
How Much Surface Coverage Does Each System Provide?
Sprinklers cover a much larger surface area than drip irrigation does, which can be particularly beneficial to someone with a larger property. However, this means that it could take a long time for your plants to be sufficiently watered since the water is being spread out to such a large area.
Drip irrigation systems cover a much smaller surface area than sprinklers do, but offer deeper, more thorough waterings. They do this by keeping roots consistently moist and releasing water slowly which gives the roots and soil more time to absorb it, which will lead to better root development for your grass and plants.
Call Our Experts Today To Install Your New Irrigation System!
An irrigation system is a great way to keep your lawn and your plants hydrated, healthy, and beautiful. Whether it is a sprinkler system or a drip irrigation system, our experts will install an irrigation system that works for you and your lawn. Since 2012, we have been providing premium irrigation system installation services for the homes and businesses in Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa and surrounding communities in Arizona. We are so confident you will be thrilled with our work that we back all of our services with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are interested in installing an irrigation system to help your lawn flourish, call us at today!