What to Look for in Your New Sprinkler System

New Jersey homeowners are tired of watering their lawns. Interest in sprinkler systems in NJ has gone up considerably, but many people aren't sure what to look for. Here are five things to ponder when considering our different sprinkler systems:

1.  Nozzles you won't hit with the mower. There are many different nozzle types for sprinkler systems in NJ including some very fancy ones. But no matter what type you're interested in, you need to make sure it won't become a hazard when you're mowing. Different nozzle types offer different amounts of clearance and have different methods for staying out of the way. Make sure you understand how much clearance yours offers and that you feel comfortable mowing over it.

2.  The right nozzle for every location. All those different nozzles do serve a purpose: they allow you to optimize watering for different terrain and landscaping. For instance, a sprinkler on a sloped lawn will cover the area differently than the same sprinkler on a flat lawn. It's important to choose a nozzle that is perfect for the terrain it's actually on. Similarly, plant cover makes a big difference. A popup nozzle can be only 4 inches long in a lawn, but needs to be longer if it's in an area of shrubs and flowers where it has to get higher above the surrounding plants. Since no one mows flower beds, the longer nozzles are fine in such an area.

3.  A timer. For many sprinkler systems, this comes standard but make sure to ask before you buy. A timer is what truly makes a sprinkler system automatic, as you don't even need to remember to turn the sprinkler on. For lawns, a morning sprinkle is a good idea because it takes advantage of cooler temperatures, but unlike an evening sprinkle, it doesn't encourage mold growth.

4.  A rain sensor. If you were watering your lawn by hand, would you go out there with the hose on a rainy day? Of course you wouldn't. And yet many homeowners allow their sprinklers to kick on every day, rain or shine. Irrigating your lawn during a rainstorm is a waste and may even lead to waterlogged turf. Get a simple rain sensor that will override your sprinkler system's timer on rainy days.

5.  Proper, professional installation. Nothing makes a bigger difference in sprinkler system performance and reliability than proper installation. Real pros won't just install it right – they'll do so with minimal damage to your lawn.