How to Set Zones on Your Sprinkler System for Efficient Watering
Most homeowners want their lawn and garden to look their best without wasting water or spending a fortune on water bills. This is where correct sprinkler zoning and understanding how to set zones on a sprinkler system come into play. You can ensure that every section of your yard receives the exact quantity of water it requires by setting up individual zones for your grass, flowers, and veggies. We can assist you if you are unsure how to set sprinkler zones. Continue reading to learn how to set zones on your sprinkler system and water your lawn as efficiently as possible.
The first step in setting up zones for efficient watering is to determine the maximum water pressure for your sprinkler system. Typically, this information can be located on the side of your home's main water shut-off valve. If you understand the fundamentals of irrigation systems, you may be able to find this information for yourself. If you don't know where to look, a trained sprinkler technician can tell you what your water pressure is.
Determine the maximum flow rate.
Similarly, you'll need to know what your system's maximum flow rate is. Because no two sprinkler systems are alike, consult your owner's manual or an expert for this information.
Map out the grassy areas.
It's time to start drawing out zones once you've determined how much water your system can handle. Begin by sketching a rough outline of your property on paper. Then, designate the areas that are predominantly grass with a different color. These are the "grassy" zones.
Map Out Flower/Vegetable Zones
Along with your grassy zones, you'll need to map out the areas of your yard dedicated to flowers and veggies. These are the "flower/vegetable" zones. Use a different hue than you did for the grassy areas this time. It may take some time to map out your zones, but it is essential for genuinely efficient watering.
How Many Sprinkler Heads Are There Per Zone?
It's time to start considering how many sprinkler heads you'll need for each zone after you've drawn out all of your zones on a map. One or two sprinkler heads should be adequate for modest areas. Larger areas will necessitate additional sprinkler heads, and you may need to purchase several types of sprinkler heads for certain watering scenarios. An expert can help you determine how many heads you'll need for each zone.
Adding a Zone to an Existing Sprinkler System
You could try to set up an additional zone (or two) yourself if you already have a sprinkler system. You'd need to find the main supply line, add more pipe, link it all together, and make sure it's properly set up on your sprinkler control box. You might also wonder, "Can a single sprinkler zone control two valves?" The quick answer is yes, but it depends on whether you have enough water pressure and that everything is correctly set up. Don't worry if all of that sounds difficult. When you seek professional assistance, adding a zone to an existing system is simple. Even better, hiring a professional ensures that it is done correctly the first time!
What Should You Do If Your Sprinkler Zone Is Leaking?
If you observe water leaking from one of your zones, the first step is to turn off the water to that zone. Then, inspect the sprinkler heads for any broken or damaged parts. Once you've identified the issue, you can either fix it yourself or call a service technician to detect and repair the leak.
What Should You Do If a Sprinkler Zone Isn't Working?
If one of your sprinkler zones isn't functioning properly, the first step is to inspect the zone's control box. Check that all connections are secure and that the circuit breaker has not been tripped. If you're not familiar with working with circuit breakers or just can't find the problem, you'll need to hire an irrigation repair professional.
