Irrigation Help & Frequently Asked Questions
Irrigation Questions, Answered by the Experts
Get clear, practical answers to the most common irrigation, sprinkler, and drip system questions. Whether you’re planning a new system, fixing an issue, or choosing the right products, this guide is built to help homeowners and contractors make confident decisions.
System Design & Estimating
How many GPM does a typical residential irrigation zone require?
Most residential zones operate between 10–30 GPM, depending on sprinkler type, spacing, pipe size, and run length. Spray zones usually run at lower total GPM with higher precipitation rates, while rotor zones require higher flow but apply water more slowly.
How many sprinkler heads can run on one zone?
Total nozzle flow should generally stay under 80% of available system GPM to maintain consistent pressure. Count the GPM of each nozzle and size zones accordingly.
How many irrigation zones does a typical system need?
Most residential systems use 4-12 zones. Turf, drip, slopes, and high-demand areas should be separated for performance and easier troubleshooting.
Do you review plans and provide material takeoffs?
Yes. We write plans, review submitted plans, assess material needs, and provide accurate estimates for irrigation, pumps, central control, lighting, drainage, and related systems.
Zones, Valves & Controllers
What's the difference between spray heads and rotors?
Spray heads apply water quickly over smaller areas. Rotors apply water more slowly over larger areas. Do not mix spray heads and rotors on the same zone due to different precipitation rates.
What is proper head spacing?
Spray heads typically use head-to-head spacing of 8-15 ft. Rotors are spaced 15-30+ ft, depending on nozzle and pressure.
When should pressure-regulated spray bodies be used?
Use pressure-regulated bodies when static pressure exceeds manufacturer recommendations (typically 30-40 PSI). They reduce misting and improve uniformity.
Pipe & Pump Controls
When is an irrigation pump required?
Pumps are used when supply pressure or volume is insufficient, such as wells, ponds, cisterns, or large properties.
How are pumps sized for irrigation?
Pump sizing is based on required GPM, total dynamic head (TDH), elevation change, and friction loss. Improper sizing leads to poor performance or premature failure.
Central Control & Water Management
What is central irrigation control?
Central control systems allow remote monitoring and control of multiple irrigation sites or large systems, commonly used in commercial and municipal applications.
Can central control reduce water use?
Yes. Central control combined with flow sensing and weather data helps identify leaks, adjust schedules, and reduce waste.
Landscape Lighting
How do you size a landscape lighting transformer?
Transformer sizing is based on total fixture wattage plus headroom (typically 20-30%) to avoid overload.
Why does voltage drop matter in lighting systems?
Excessive voltage drop causes dim lights and uneven performance. Proper wire sizing and layout are critical.
Drainage
When is drainage needed in a landscape?
Drainage is required when water pools, soils remain saturated, or runoff threatens structures. Solutions include French drains, catch basins, and channel drains.
Can drainage be integrated with irrigation projects?
Yes. Drainage is often designed alongside irrigation to manage excess water efficiently.
Winterization & Troubleshooting
When should irrigation systems be winterized in Utah?
Systems should be winterized before the first hard freeze, typically in fall. Timing varies by elevation and microclimate.
What causes low pressure across an entire zone?
Common causes include leaks, undersized pipe, clogged filters or nozzles, or too many heads on one zone.
Plans, Bids & Technical Support
What services do you provide beyond product sales?
We write plans, review plans, assess material needs, provide accurate estimates, and support bids for irrigation, pumps, central control, lighting, drainage, turf, fertilizer, water management, and commercial irrigation.
Can contractors get technical help with products?
Yes. Our team supports contractors with compatibility questions, system design guidance, material takeoffs, and product specific trainings.