Farmers and professional gardeners have been using drip irrigation systems for years to water their crops, flowers, trees and shrubs. Nowadays, more and more homeowners are starting to do the same—but what exactly is drip irrigation, and is it right for your lawn and garden? This post will cover what you need to know about drip irrigation installation in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
What are the benefits of drip irrigation?
Let’s start with a look at why folks might choose to set up a drip irrigation system in the first place. These are a few of the most popular reasons:
- Conserve water: The number one reason people choose to set up a drip irrigation system is to conserve water. Drip irrigation keeps roots moist, but not soaked. As a result, it uses up less water than a traditional sprinkler system. Water from a drip irrigation system also doesn’t evaporate as quickly, further adding to its conservation abilities.
- Save money: If you’re using less water to keep your plants and lawn alive, you’re bound to save money each month on your utility bills. A properly installed drip irrigation system uses anywhere from 20 to 50 percent less water than a traditional sprinkler system, which means you could save hundreds of dollars throughout the year, depending on how much and how often you water.
- Save time: How much time do you spend watering the plants in your garden? Probably more than you’d like to admit! You can cut that chore out of your daily routine by installing a drip irrigation system will keep your flowers and plants well watered. All you’ll need to do is sit back and watch your garden flourish.
What materials will you need?
Drip irrigation kits are available online and in hardware stores, but you don’t necessarily have to buy a full kit to set up a system by yourself. Here are all the materials you’ll need to finish the job:
- Backflow preventers: The number one concern when it comes to a drip irrigation system is the possibility of the irrigation water flowing back into your home and contaminating your drinking water. Backflow preventers keep this from happening. Be sure one is properly installed to keep you and your family safe.
- Pressure regulators: Judging by the name, you probably know that a drip irrigation system works by allowing the water to slowly “drip” out and water your garden. Pressure regulators ensure that the water is dripping out slowly enough as to not soak your plants, which could eventually kill them.
- Filters: What’s the purpose of a drip irrigation system if there’s a clog in it? Thankfully, a filter prevents debris from entering the tubing and causing one of those clogs. Some pressure regulators already have filters built in, so you may not need a filter depending on the type of regulator you buy.
If you’re interested in installing a drip irrigation system but don’t want to do it yourself, Spillers Sprinklers Inc. can help! As experts in irrigation installation in Fort Lauderdale, FL, we can set you up with a fantastic drip system that’ll keep your lawn and garden looking great while saving you a bundle on your water bill each month. Give us a call today to learn more about our services!