Each year I visit several hundred homes and businesses to estimate installing or replacing a lawn sprinkler system. Ultimately, the goal is to have a thick, green, lush lawn and a beautiful garden all season long, and the sprinkler system is an integral part in achieving this goal. A sprinkler system can be much more complicated then you might think and the cost often reflects the sophistication and complexity.
When I meet with the property owner, many are obtaining several estimates and comparing companies. They all have one general basis for getting quotes and this would be "price". It is difficult to compare products and design although that is the "key" to making a wise purchase.
The other two major factors are the actual installation and the follow up service. When the response to my proposal is "your price is too high" I typically inquire as to how are you qualifying this low price company? How did you qualify the owner and the individuals installing the system? Do you know what the three biggest mistakes buyers make when purchasing a sprinkler system? They are sprinkler system design, materials, and installation. You need to have all three to make the best decision and in purchasing the optimum automatic sprinkler system possible.
I advise folks on the life cycle cost of the system. The life cycle cost is the cost to install the sprinkler system, service the system each year, and make repairs and modifications when necessary. Typically, the average sprinkler system is rated to last 12 years. This is according to several large sprinkler manufacturers, and if it is well taken care of then it can last longer. If not winterized properly each year, the life span is cut short.
Most consumers have a sprinkler system installed and then after the first year have service costs such as the "spring turn on", the "winter turn off", and possibly if directed from the water district, a "backflow test". As the sprinkler system gets older repairs and replacements become part of the annual costs. It is difficult to estimate what those costs will be. The truth is that the low end budget systems always have a higher service and repair cost thereby passing the better system in their life cycle costing. My recommendation is to take the time to research the company you like, the design, and the products they recommend before you invest you're hard earned dollars into a new sprinkler system.
Hire a lawn sprinkler contractor that is a lawn sprinkler contractor! This might sound crazy and there are many individuals and landscaping companies masquerading as a lawn sprinkler company and they are not. Hire a local, licensed, and insured individual and company. Hire a company that has individuals who are certified as irrigation contractors by the National Irrigation Association
Choose the best material possible! The really good materials do not cost much more than the mediocre lesser quality economical brands yet they deliver value, performance, and longevity. Hunter, Toro, and Rainbird are all great manufacturers to consider. Have your sprinkler, landscape, and lawn maintenance company work together to create the best watering schedule.
There are sprinkler systems to fit every budget and not all automated sprinkler systems are created equal. It is best to know the value of your purchase and how it will impact your landscape and your wallet years after making the initial decision.
Caveat Emptor "Let the Buyer Beware" For more information please contact me at 631-423-2211 or email me Rich with any questions or comments you may have.
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