SPRINKLERS VS "DRIP" SYSTEM COMPARISON

 **NOTE:  Drip System is NOT mandatory UNLESS you are applying for the SNWA Rebate

.   We get asked quite often, what’s the difference?  Or what’s better as far as irrigation is concerned? Both have their advantages and disadvantages. At the end of the day, you will save 75-80% of your water bill irrigating your new lawn compared to grass. 

     Regardless which system you use, it’s imperative to keep the soil moist for 30-45 days depending on what time of year you plant. In the beginning, you will irrigate more frequently with less duration to keep your soil moist. Once you start to get your lawn established you will start to water for longer duration with less frequency. It’s a simple process that will be discussed in detail upon your purchase. 

 NOTE:  A DRIP SYSTEM IS NOT MANDATORY UNLESS YOU ARE APPLYING FOR THE SNWA REBATE INCENTIVE.  IF YOU HAVE EXISTING SPRINKLER SYSTEM IN GOOD CONDITION OR THAT IS YOUR PREFERENCE, IT IS PERFECTLY FINE.  AT END OF DAY YOU WILL STILL SAVE ON YOUR WATER BILL.   

Here’s some key points to consider:

--Sprinklers-- 

     Some people have existing sprinkler systems that are in good shape and were done correctly. They provide 100% coverage of the lawn and have no problems. That being said, they would certainly work to provide irrigation and there would be no need to switch over to a “drip” system. You can provide adequate irrigation and save the expense of switching to a “drip” system.

    When it comes to pets, I personally like having the opportunity to wash down pet urine, dust, dander, etc. If you have a window over your new lawn or patio, it’s nice to open the windows in the winter and not get ANY dust.  There’s also something to be said about reducing the “thermal curtain” if you want to relax on your patio and reduce the temperature a bit.  I turn my sprinklers on a couple times a week for a couple minutes after I’m done cleaning my patio for that very reason.

     Even though sprinklers emit water in the air and there IS some evaporation; your overall water bill is still substantially reduced because of your new grass alternative. HOWEVER, as stated below, a “drip system” is mandatory for SNWA REBATE INCENTIVE PROGRAM.

--“Drip System”—

     Some people have existing drip systems because of their desert landscaping and possibly don’t have any sprinkler system at all? They can add to their existing system with some adapters, and some mild adjustments to the pressure and start the system needed for their new landscape. That being said, it’s completely up to the customer to make the decision. You don’t have to run sprinklers. As seen in our GALLERY, we have a “drip” system that shows how we did it, and it works great! As stated above, SNWA REBATE INCENTIVE PROGRAM requires a MANDATORY “DRIP” SYSTEM for the REBATE. 

     Some people want their new lawn to go to the wall. Most newer homes who have HOA’s might have an easement of anywhere from 1-3 feet where they cannot plant against the wall depending on the HOA. That is something to keep in mind. When you plant up to the wall per say in an older home, a “drip” system might work better because now you’re not spraying onto your wall, or onto an adjacent wall that you share with a neighbor?

     Keep in mind with a “drip” system, you will NEVER have water from the top going down. So keep that in mind as stated previously in regards to sprinklers. Pets, pools, and landscape are all a consideration.  Luckily, your new landscape will still be cool to the touch; even in Summer!

To go to SNWA website for Water Smart Landscapes Rebate info, click below

https://www.snwa.com/rebates/wsl/index.html