Bonnie: One detail is the system used to advance through the irrigation
system watering zones. One type is an indexer which uses water pressure to
move the control from the first zone to the second, then to the third, etc.
The other type uses solenoids to open and close valves to each zone. I've
had both, and the solenoids are by far the preferred solution. The reason
is that you will at times want to run a specific zone, test a new sprinkler
head installation, etc. If you use the sequential, water-powered valve
control, it's more trouble to get to the right zone during your test, and
then it's easy to forget that you have to cycle through all of them so that
the system starts again at zone 1.
Second, if you're using solenoids, try to have the system designed so that
they are all lined up, side-by-side in a single location, even if it means
all of the zones originate from a central point (uses more pipe, but any
problems are all in one place). (My last installation the contractor put
the solenoids at the start of each zone, in the lawn, and scattered all
around the property. I've got seven zones, and I no longer know where all
of the solenoids are located.)
Third, consider whether you may want micro-irrigation systems in your
gardens. Preplan the micro-irrigation and then make it a separate zone (or
zones) in your systems.
Fourth, make sure you get a digitally programmable controller that will give
you great flexibility in setting up the days and duration for each zone.
Fifth, consider the source of your water. If you're going to have a well,
or use water from a lake/river, your considerations will be different than
if you have to use city metered water. It may be that using city metered
water will run up your utility bill quickly, so beware.
Sixth, if you are going to get your water source for irrigation from your
household supply and have a water softener installed, try to get your
irrigation water from a line prior to the softener. You don't need the
extra expense of softening water that then is just going into your
shrubbery.
Seventh, if you keep any flowers in pots, consider having a nearby
micro-irrigation zone which you can tap into and put a micro-irrigation head
in each of the pots. What I've done, to keep the spray contained, is
install the micro-irrigation spray head (a mist-er) upside down so that it
mists only into the pot, not the adjacent windows or walls.
FWIW, my last-installed system used Hunter components, all based on 3//4"
diameter pipe. These are a higher quality component than you'll find at the
BORGs, which in my experience have sprinkler heads suitable for 1/2" pipe.
My present Hunter system is the best of several that I've had, except for
the contractor's decision on where to put the solenoids.
Once you get a good system installed, you'll really appreciate it. Good
luck and regards --
"Bonnie Jean" wrote in message
...
I am considering having an irrigation system put in for my lawn and flower
beds, either late this fall or next spring.
What should I look for in an installer? Does someone need a lot of
experience and expertise to do this? Should I insist on a certain brand of
materials? I am clueless about this so any advise is greatly appreciated.
Bonnie in NJ
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