Frequently Asked Questions

Like most people, you probably have a lot of questions you’d like answered before finalizing your decision to purchase an automatic sprinkler system. This section explains how the components of an automatic irrigation system come together to form a fully operating system to keep your landscape green and lush throughout the summer months. Many people say convenience is the biggest advantage to an automatic irrigation system since they don’t have to spend their time watering by hand or moving the hose around the yard. Others say extended plant life and lower water usage are the most important benefits. Still others believe a sprinkler system is one of the best financial investments they can make in their home since appearance is a key factor in determining market value. And guess what – they’re all right!

Will an automatic sprinkler system use more water than I’m currently using?
Does having a sprinkler system really save time?
Will an automatic sprinkler system water as well as I can water by hand?
We generally get 40 or more inches of rainfall a year. Do we really need a sprinkler system?
Are there different systems from which to choose?
How do I know what type of system is best for me?
Can I save money by installing my own system?
Will I have difficulty operating the system?
How much will the system cost?
I'm on water meter. How much will the water cost?

Q. Will an automatic sprinkler system use more water than I’m currently using?

No. in fact, it will conserve water. You’ll never have to worry about runoff from over watering or wasting water when you forget to turn off the hose. And, with a rain sensor, your system will know when it is raining and simply shut itself off when water is not needed.

Q. Does having a sprinkler system really save time?

Yes. You won’t have to spend another minute of your valuable leisure time watering the lawn. Your new system will do all of the watering for you – even when you’re away from home.

Q. Will an automatic sprinkler system water as well as I can water by hand?

Yes. It will do a much better job because a professionally designed system will deliver exactly the right amount of water to individual lawn and garden areas.

Q. We generally get 40 or more inches of rainfall a year. Do we really need a sprinkler system?

If it rained at your house every three days – the same exact amount each time – you probably wouldn’t need a sprinkler system. But nature doesn’t work that way, and the only way to ensure healthy, lush growth is to make certain your lawn and plants receive regularly timed, evenly distributed amount of water. In the dry season when there is little or no rain, your yard can suffer damage after just a few days without water.

Q. Are there different systems from which to choose?

Although every system should be tailored to meet individual needs, a typical system will be comprised of a controller (which functions as the brains of the system), valves (which open and close to release and stop the flow of water to underground pipes) and sprinklers (which actually distribute the water to a given area). There are many manufacturers of irrigation products and University Sprinklers can install anyone of them, some of them at a lower cost than others to you. Remember, you get what you pay for with any product or service, and irrigation systems are no exception. University Sprinklers installs primarily quality Rain Bird products. High quality Rain Bird products have been have been the choice of professionals worldwide for more than 60 years.

Q. How do I know what type of system is best for me?

University Sprinklers will design an irrigation system based on such factors as water source and pressure, soil type, planting materials, weather conditions, and your personal preferences and expectations. We will take all this information into consideration in designing a system specific to the need of your landscape.

Q. Can I save money by installing my own system?

No! In fact, it could cost you more money in the long run. University Sprinklers will design and install the most cost-effective and energy-efficient system possible. You can be certain that we will select the appropriate equipment for the job, while streamlining the maintenance required to keep your landscaping in top shape. We will pay special attention to such important factors as sprinkler patterns (it is important to overlap the patters so that the outer edges receive sufficient water for healthy growth) and backflow prevention equipment (which is necessary to protect your drinking water supply). And because University Sprinklers is familiar with local plumbing and electrical codes, you won’t have to worry about costly mistakes in wiring or pipe installation. We can do the job faster, with less disruption to existing landscaping. And don’t forget, all University Sprinkler systems are backed by a comprehensive full labour and materials warranty, plus the exceptional customer service only University Sprinklers customers have come to expect.

Q. Will I have difficulty operating the system?

University Sprinklers will select the best controller for your needs, and we will set it with an appropriate watering schedule. University Sprinklers will also work with you to ensure you understand both the operation of the system, and how to adjust the controller’s program easily. We will also instruct you on the operation of the electric valves, adjustment of spray heads & rotor heads, and explain the Spring re-charging procedure so that, at your option, you can start-up your system by yourself.

Q. How much will a system cost?

The price of a University Sprinklers Irrigation System varies depending on many factors such as property size, type of landscaping, size of water supply, and your preferences. But you can count on University Sprinklers to design a cost-effective system comprised of quality Rain Bird products. We are familiar with all the products the irrigation industry has to offer and know how to put the right ones together in a system that will achieve maximum, results for you. And remember, University Sprinklers stands behind all of the products we install and are serious about commitment to quality installation and service.

Q. I'm on a water meter. How much will the water cost?

You can use our Online Water Calculator.

There’s no reason to hesitate! You take pride in your home’s appearance. You value your free time. You hate to waste water. You know you can’t beat University Sprinklers top-quality service and products. And, last but not least, you realize it makes sense to protect your landscape investment with a professionally installed sprinkler system. When you get right down to it, there’s simply no reason not to have a University Sprinkler system professionally installed in your yard.

So, what are you waiting for? Some of the previous sections have been adapted from Rain Bird literature:
"Make Your Landscape the Envy of the Neighborhood" & "Automatic Sprinkler Systems: Commonly Asked Questions".

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