Understanding The Different Types Of Irrigation Equipment

It's no secret that people rely heavily on irrigation to ensure their gardens, farms, and local green spaces thrive. But what many people don't realize is just how many different types of equipment are used to accomplish this task.

Take a look at three popular pieces of irrigation equipment and find out exactly how they work. 

Sprinklers

The most common type of irrigation system uses sprinklers, which are devices that spray water into the air to irrigate an area. Sprinklers can be either stationary or mobile, depending on the application.

Stationary sprinklers are permanently fixed in place and use valves and pumps to push water through hoses or tubes connected to the sprinkler head. They are usually used for larger areas like parks and golf courses with flat terrain.

On the other hand, mobile sprinklers use a motor to move the device from place to place, covering a larger area than a stationary sprinkler. Mobile sprinklers are best used in smaller areas with irregular terrains, such as home gardens and small farms.

Sprinkler systems are usually powered by gravity or electricity, though manual operation is also possible for smaller systems. Make sure to check with an equipment supplier to determine which type of sprinkler system will work best for what you need.

Drip Irrigation Systems

Drip irrigation systems provide water directly to each plant's roots using small amounts of water applied slowly over time, making them one of the most efficient methods available for watering plants. There is little to no wastage due to the slow and precise application of water.

Drip irrigation systems are composed of a network of pipes, valves, and emitters connected to a water source. The water is slowly released through the emitters, providing each plant with the exact amount of water it needs without any runoff.

This system is ideal for large-scale agricultural production, home gardens, and other small-scale applications. It's relatively easy to install and requires very little maintenance, making it a great choice for those looking for an efficient yet cost-effective solution.

Subsurface Drip Irrigation Systems

Subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) is a specialized version of drip irrigation that operates underneath the surface of the soil instead of above it.

SDI systems use special emitters placed beneath the soil surface that deliver precise amounts of water directly to each plant's root zone. The emitters are made of a material that allows water to seep out slowly, ensuring that the roots get the exact amount of water they need.

Because they're buried in the ground, SDI systems are ideal for areas with rocky or hard surfaces that can't be irrigated using traditional methods. They can be installed with minimal disruption to existing vegetation or infrastructure. These systems also require very little maintenance, making them a great choice for large-scale agricultural operations as well as home gardens. 

Contact a company like The Irrigator to learn more.