Colorado Springs Inground Sprinkler System Repair and Installation

Benefits of Automated Inground Sprinkler Systems

Efficient Water Usage

Automated inground sprinkler systems are designed for efficient lawn watering. They ensure that water is used by plants, without excessive evaporation or percolation. This saves both water and money, as it lowers your water usage and utility bills.

No More Manually Moving Sprinklers Around Your Yard

With an automated system, you won’t have to move sprinklers manually. This saves time and effort while guaranteeing your lawn is evenly watered. You can forget about manual watering, as the system will handle it with a set schedule.

No Messes and Unruly Hoses in Your Yard

Automated irrigation systems utilize underground piping, which eliminates the mess of unruly hoses. Your yard will look neat and tidy without hoses obstructing pathways or causing unsightly presence on your lawn.

Targeted, Precise Water Usage

One of the main advantages of automated inground sprinkler systems is precise water usage. These systems deliver water to specific areas, reducing waste and ensuring that all plants receive the water they need. By optimizing water distribution, you save valuable resources and maintain a healthy lawn.

Advantages of Different Spray Patterns

These systems offer a range of spray patterns to choose from, allowing you to customize your irrigation. Different patterns cater to various plant and lawn needs, providing optimal watering for your landscape.

Types of Inground Sprinkler Heads

Fixed Spray Sprinkler Heads

Fixed spray heads offer a fixed water pattern and efficient water coverage for small to medium-sized lawns. These heads are easy to maintain and often used in the design of residential sprinkler systems. They come in various types, like full-circle, half-circle, and quarter-circle patterns, depending on the area’s shape and size. A properly designed sprinkler system with fixed spray heads reduces waste of water and keeps the lawn healthy.

Flood Sprinkler Heads

Flood sprinkler heads are ideal for irrigating shrubs, ground covers, and other dense plantings. They help water to spread deep into the soil evenly, with an adjustable flow rate. Flood sprinkler heads aid in water conservation and ensure that plants receive adequate moisture without overwatering. Upgrading to flood heads is an excellent choice for homeowners looking to make their sprinkler systems more efficient.

Pop-Up Sprinklers

Pop-up sprinklers rise up from the ground when the system is activated and retract when not in use, keeping the lawn area clean and clutter-free. They come in various heights to accommodate different types of vegetation and landscape features. An underground sprinkler system with pop-up sprinklers is suitable for lawns with changing terrain or slopes susceptible to flooding.

Rotary Sprinkler Heads

Rotary sprinkler heads rotate while spraying water, covering a larger area compared to fixed spray heads. They are available in two main types: gear-driven rotors and multi-stream rotors. Gear-driven rotors are quieter and easier to maintain than impact rotors, with one or more water streams.

Multi-stream rotors, on the other hand, feature multiple water streams for improved coverage. These heads are perfect for large lawns and help save water by applying it more slowly and evenly. Upgrading to rotary heads can improve the overall efficiency of a sprinkler system.

Different Types of Sprinkler Heads

Irrigation Controller Dashboards

Irrigation controller dashboards offer advanced features to manage and monitor inground sprinkler systems in Colorado Springs. They help homeowners optimize water usage, promote landscape health, and streamline irrigation services.

Highly Programmable

These dashboards provide options for customizing sprinkler operation. Users can set watering days, start times, and duration for each zone. This flexibility ensures efficient usage while reducing the need for irrigation repair.

Rain Sensor Features

Rain sensors allow systems to adjust watering schedules based on actual rainfall. This feature prevents over-watering, conserves water, and reduces the need for sprinkler startup when unexpected rain occurs.

Separate Timer Settings for Each Zone

Each zone of a sprinkler system has unique needs. Irrigation controller dashboards enable users to set separate timer settings for every zone. This helps maintain specific watering schedules, ensuring the plants’ health and reducing overall water waste.

WiFi and App Control

With WiFi capability and mobile app integration, users can manage their sprinkler systems remotely. This allows for easy monitoring, quick schedule adjustments, and immediate response to issues that could require irrigation repair.

Sprinkler System Installation Process

Designing Separate Watering Zones for Your Lawn

A well-designed irrigation system caters to the distinct needs of different parts of your lawn. Your contractor will begin by identifying the areas with similar water requirements and grouping them into separate watering zones. Carefully planning each sprinkler zone ensures efficient water usage and creates a uniform, healthy landscape.

Digging Trenches to Optimal Depth

After designing the watering zones, your landscaping contractor will prepare the lawn for sprinkler installation and system installation. This step involves digging trenches to an optimal depth, which varies depending on local regulations and soil type. A proper depth ensures good water distribution and offers protection against potential freeze damage.

Insert Pipes in Trenches

Next, they will place PVC or polyethylene pipes into the newly dug trenches, making sure to connect them using the appropriate fittings. Proper pipe installation enhances the efficiency and longevity of the irrigation system.

Connect to a Water Source and Install the Zone Valves

It’s crucial to connect the irrigation system to a reliable water source. The connection point should have a backflow prevention device to ensure the water supply doesn’t get contaminated. After connecting the water source, the contractor will install the zone valves, which control the flow of water to each watering zone.

Connect Pipes to the Valve Box

Once the zone valves are in place, your contractor will connect the pipes leading to them inside a valve box. This box keeps the valves organized and protected from the elements.

Connect Sprinkler Heads and Drip Irrigation to Pipes and Establish Wiring

Now, it’s time to attach sprinkler heads and drip irrigation devices to the pipes. When choosing the right sprinkler heads with your contractor, consider factors such as water pressure, coverage area, and spray pattern. Properly spacing the sprinkler heads and drip emitters ensures even water distribution. The sprinkler heads also need wiring to the zone valves for seamless communication.

Connect Your System to Controller

Finally, irrigation system is connected to a controller, which allows the homeowner to set watering schedules. Installing a high-quality controller, such as a smart device that adjusts watering based on weather or soil moisture, enhances water efficiency and lawn health.

Sprinkler System Maintenance and Repair

Proper care of inground sprinkler systems in Colorado Springs is vital for maintaining a healthy, lush lawn. Regular maintenance and prompt sprinkler repairs help keep your yard looking its best throughout the year.

Replacing Damaged Sprinkler Heads

Sprinkler heads can become damaged over time due to wear, lawn equipment, or harsh weather conditions. Damaged heads can lead to inefficient watering, causing patches of dead grass or even water waste.

You’ll want to monitor your sprinkler system periodically as part of your normal lawn care routine.  Keep an eye out for geysers shooting water straight up, or sprinklers that are not spraying in the desired pattern.  Look for clogged, broken, or leaking sprinkler heads.  Sprinklers that are leaning too far in one direction are another common issue that you’ll have to address. If you see any issues, it may be time to perform a sprinkler repair.  

Replacing a Sprinkler Head

The most common type of a sprinkler repair is a damaged sprinkler head.  Fortunately, you can get a new sprinkler head from a big box store like Lowe’s or Home Depot.  Alternatively, you can order a new sprinkler head online. To ensure peak performance, it’s essential to replace damaged sprinkler heads as soon as you notice a problem. Inspect your sprinkler system periodically and watch for broken, clogged, or leaking heads.

Another Common Sprinkler Repair: Replacing a Spray Nozzle

Winterization of Your Inground Sprinkler System

Winterization (also known as a sprinkler blowout) is a crucial step in sprinkler maintenance, especially in Colorado Springs, where temperatures can drop significantly during the cold months. Winterization services help prevent damage to your sprinkler system caused by freezing water inside the pipes and components. This process typically involves shutting off the water supply, draining the system, and blowing out any remaining water with compressed air. Proper winterization extends the life of your sprinkler system and protects your investment.

While this can be a DIY project, it can be time consuming and requires an air compressor.  You also don’t want to make any mistakes as damage to your sprinkler system (especially the backflow preventer) can be time consuming and costly.  A sprinkler service can take care of this headache for you and make sure that the job is done right.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does it Cost to Install a Sprinkler System in Colorado Springs, Colorado?

The cost of installing a sprinkler system in Colorado Springs, Colorado, varies based on factors such as the size of your lawn, the type of system you choose, and the materials used. On average, you can expect to spend between $1,740 and $3,400 for a typical residential installation.

How Long Does it Take to Install an Inground Sprinkler System?

The duration required for sprinkler system installation depends on the size of the area, the complexity of the system, and the professionals’ experience. A professional contractor can install a sprinkler system in an average sized lawn in a day or two. They have the skills and experience to get this job done quickly. A DIY installation will likely take much longer and multiple trips to the hardware store where you’ll probably get to be on a first name basis with the staff at Home Depot or Lowes.

How Deep Should Sprinkler Pipes be Buried?

Sprinkler pipes should be buried at a depth sufficient to protect them from potential damage, such as being hit by lawn equipment or freezing during the winter months. In most cases, burying the pipes between 8 and 12 inches is ideal. It is essential to also consider any local codes or regulations that may dictate the required pipe depth in your area.

What Kind of Permitting is Required for Sprinkler System Installation in Colorado Springs?

Depending on the location and scope of your sprinkler system project, specific permits and even licensing requirements for contractors may be required before installation can begin. You should consult with your chosen sprinkler system company and check with Colorado Springs Utilities office to verify any necessary permits and fees. It is crucial to obtain the required permits before starting the installation to ensure compliance with local codes and regulations.

Are There Outdoor Watering Restrictions in Colorado Springs I Should be Aware of?

Yes, there are Water Wise Rules in place for outdoor watering in Colorado Springs. These rules are designed to promote water conservation and include regulations on watering days, time of day, and the use of efficient watering technologies. You should familiarize yourself with these restrictions and adjust your watering schedules accordingly to avoid potential fines and conserve water.