Choosing the right type of irrigation heads is one of the many factors that are vital in the instalment of an automatic lawn irrigation system. This way choice enables better administration of water, less wastage while at the same time aiding lawn growth. Since there are different irrigation heads, one must know the features and operation of each for the right selection. Below is the procedure to follow when selecting the best irrigation heads for an automatic lawn irrigation system.
- List, Understand and identify the Different Irrigation Heads
There are several types of irrigation heads, each designed to meet specific watering needs:
- Spray Heads: Suitable to be used in areas with limited space and can be fixed or adjustable spray pattern. It is recommended for use on lawns, flower beds, and around shrubs. Spray heads are normally installed in low pressure systems though they come with wide range of spray patterns; full circle, half, quarter circle.
- Rotor Heads: As with the spray heads Rotary heads are larger and discharge water in a rotational pattern while hitting a larger area. These are very good for lawn and large open spaces. Rotors something that can be adjusted as span and lateral range and thus Irrotor can be used in most applications in irrigation.
- Drip Emitters: For watering purpose specifically plants, shrubs, gardens etc., drip emitters are ideal as they seep water slowly with direct absorption in the soil. They are very efficient and help in saving water since they target certain plants.
- Soaker Hoses: It is used in the garden beds and row crops because it supplies water throughout its length without causing much pressure. They are very suitable for facilities that have many plants within the vicinity.
- Consider the Water Pressure
The pressure of water that you install in your irrigation system will define the type of irrigation heads to use. There is pressure rating that best suits certain type of irrigation head. For instance, while spray heads have good efficiency at lower pressure, rotor heads need high pressure to be able to perform well. Be sure to monitor the water pressure and the kind of irrigation heads that are appropriate for use in the given system.
- Match the Coverage Area
As for when and how often different irrigation heads are applied, their coverage area differs. When selecting heads, it is advisable to use ones that would allow equal distribution of water on the lawn or on the garden. Spray heads are ideal for concentrated rectangular shaped area while rotor head is ideal for large sprawling irregular shaped area. In situations requiring details application such as individual garden boxes or plant beds, drip emitters or soaker hoses are better.
- Evaluate Water Distribution Efficiency
It is important to avoid wastage of water and at the same time it should spread over the plants in the expected uniformity. These should be irrigation heads that have fixed arc patterns that can be adjusted so as to accommodate the required water distribution. That’s why heads with the correct and identical spray angle will hinder the formation of dry areas and, at the same time, avoid overwatering of certain zones.
- Search for signs of cut and fortunes that may require frequent upkeep.
Longevity of the heads of irrigation is essential as the performance of the irrigation depends on those. Use durable and high-quality material that can be able to withstand hard weather and be able to take lots of pressure. Also, notice that distinct heads can be associated with different levels of required maintenance. Some may need to be cleaned or adjusted more often than others depending with their arrangement while others are made for low usage.
- Plan for System Integration
Make sure that the heads of the irrigation that you have selected are ones that are compatible with the existing automatic lawn irrigation. Ensure that the heads can be conveniently connected to the controls and other aspects of your system. This sees to it that the various parts are well compatible and that there is no hindrance in the provision of water to your lawn or garden.
- Consider Environmental Factors
Elemental forces include wind, type of soil and plant type have an effect to the performance of irrigation heads. For instance, in areas that experience windiness, rotor heads may offer better results regarding minimization of water drift as opposed to spray heads. The conditions surrounding the property that needs to be watered should also be considered so that irrigation heads that are suited to those conditions are used.
Conclusion
In this regard, the selection of irrigation heads for the automatic lawn irrigation systems plays an important part in the performance of the irrigation process. When deciding on the type of irrigation heads to use, having knowledge of the various heads, the pressure of water supply, the coverage areas, a comparison of efficiency, assessment of the heads stability and strength, the integration plans for the irrigation system and another important factor relating to environment, one is in a good position to make a proper decision that will increase the performance of the irrigation system. Choosing the correct irrigation heads will give you a healthy green grass and beautiful garden without consuming a lot of water, and with little or no effort.