Deciding whether or not to install an irrigation system can be a difficult decision to make. Hopefully with these answers to frequently asked questions from Rain Bird, one of the leaders in irrigation systems, you will be more comfortable with your decision.

The fact is, a professionally installed, automatic sprinkler system is one of the best investments you can make in your home. Just ask anybody who has one. There's no easier or more cost-effective way to beautify your home, increase its value and save yourself a lot of time and hassle.

You must also keep in mind that a system is only as good as the company that installs it. System design and installation are key to how well a system performs. That is why it's important for you to have a professional irrigation contractor design and install a custom irrigation for your home or business.

If you still have questions and are not sure about an irrigation system, then, hopefully, these answer to frequently asked questions will help you out.

Q. Will an automatic sprinkler system use more water than I'm currently using?
A. No. In fact, it will conserve water. The system's controller and rain sensor will be set so you receive only the amount of water you need. You will not over-water or under-water your lawn with an automatic sprinkler system.

Q. Does having a sprinkler system really save time?
A. Yes. You won't have to spend another minute of your valuable leisure time watering the lawn. Whether you are home or away your system will do the watering for you!

Q. Will an automatic sprinkler system water as well as I can water by hand?
A. It will do a much better job because a professionally designed system will deliver exactly the right amount of water to individual lawn and garden areas.

Q. We generally get 40 or more inches of rainfall a year. Do we really need a sprinkler system?
A. If it rained at your house every three days the same exact amount each time you probably would not need a sprinkler system. But nature does not work that way, and the only way to ensure healthy, lush growth is to make certain your lawn and plants receive a regularly timed, evenly measured amount of water. In the dry season when there is little or no rain, your yard can suffer damage after just a few days without water.

Q. Can I save money by installing my own system?
A. No! In fact, it could cost you more money in the long run. A professional irrigation contractor will design and install the most cost-effective and energy-efficient system possible. You can be certain that he will select the appropriate equipment for the job, while streamlining the maintenance required to keep your landscaping in top shape. He will pay special attention to such important factors as sprinkler patterns (it is important to overlap the patterns so that the outer edges receive sufficient water for healthy growth) and backflow prevention (which is necessary to protect your drinking water supply). And because your contractor is familiar with local plumbing and electrical codes, you won't have to worry about costly mistakes in wiring or pipe installation. He can do the job faster, with less disruption to existing landscaping, and will guarantee his work.

Q. Will I have difficulty operating this system?
A. Your contractor will explain to you how your controller works and how the watering times have been set. Then if necessary, the watering times can be adjusted by following the instructions on the inside of the controller cabinet. And that is it, the system does the rest for you.

Hopefully, some of your questions have been answered. If there are any problems or concerns you may have call us on our 24-hour phone line or visit us at: WWW.TOMPKINSLANDSCAPE.COM