What are Some Common Lawn Sprinkler Systems Problems?

When it comes to lawn sprinkler systems, things can get confusing pretty easily. There are so many different parts to keep track of, and if one part of the system is not working properly, it can affect the rest of the system and cause the whole thing to stop working. We are a Minneapolis lawn sprinkler systems company, and here are a few of the most common problems we encounter when checking on and troubleshooting these systems.

Shrubs and planter beds should be watered separately from the other grassy areas of your yard. Shrubs and other similar plants will usually have a larger root system than the grass in your yard. Putting them on separate lawn sprinkler systems will help to make sure that each part of your yard is being watered equally and that one part is not getting more water than the other.

The proper spray nozzle can make a huge difference in how lawn sprinkler systems function. Making sure the right one is spraying the right part of your yard can be confusing. That is why you should call in professionals like us! We can make sure your system is using the right kind of nozzles and that they are spraying in the correct pattern so your yard is getting plenty of water. 

Another thing to consider is your rain shut-off valve. This piece helps tell your system if it has rained or is raining so your system does not turn on and over-water your yard. Not only will this keep your yard from being over-watered, it will also help conserve water and could possibly help you save money on your water bill in the long run!

For more information about Minneapolis lawn sprinkler systems, call Advanced Irrigation at 612-599-8675 or contact us for a Free Estimate.

Lawn Sprinkler Systems and Spring Start Ups

It’s spring and the weather has finally warmed up. And that means it’s time to schedule your spring start up if you haven’t already. We here at Advanced Irrigation can take care of this warm weather chore for you! We service lawn sprinkler systems in Orono and the surrounding areas. Here is a brief rundown of what you can expect when we come to service your lawn sprinkler systems. 

When our technician arrives at your home, the process will begin with a visual inspection of your lawn sprinkler systems. He will check for any obvious damage and make sure the damage is repaired before filling your sprinklers with water. This will help ensure that no further damage is done to the system after it’s filled with water. 

Filling the lawn sprinkler systems with water is a slow process. It’s done slowly to make sure the systems aren’t overwhelmed with water. That could cause damage or, if there is already damage there that the technician couldn’t see, it could make it worse. Filling it slowly helps avoid costly repairs in the long run.

If the water is flowing through the systems and there is no damage, then it’s time to turn the lawn sprinkler systems on for the season. They will then be programmed according to your property’s watering and irrigation needs. The settings can be adjusted throughout the season as needed. The technician will keep your property’s specific needs, climate and environment in mind when he is programming the system.

Once your lawn sprinkler systems are up and running, you can enjoy your yard for the season! It will look great and we can come out any time you need us to reprogram the system and to check up on it.

For lawn sprinkler systems in Orono, call Advanced Irrigation at 612-599-8675 or get in touch with us for a Free Estimate.

The Various Kinds of Lawn Sprinkler Systems

If you're an Edina homeowner and looking to upgrade your lawn sprinkler system, then you have a wide variety from which to choose. Of course, the type of sprinklers you choose is completely up to you, but it's wise to consult with an Edina sprinklers company about your choice. As one article recently noted:

However, different sprinklers are better used in certain other applications. Finding which one will work for your lawn or yard should be the result of research and discussion with professionals.

The most popular type of sprinkler is the spray head, as they are affordable and are viewed as "the" choice for those who want to keep their lawns healthy. Other choices include drip sprinklers and gear-driven rotors, which are also popular, but are used for smaller and larger areas respectively. 

Click here to read the entire article: "The Different Types of Lawn Sprinkler Systems."

A Few More Sprinkler Tips

One of the myths about an automatic sprinkler system is that it is a “set it and forget it” type of system. While sprinklers can make life easier for you by watering your landscape at predetermined times, you should not just set up your sprinkler system and never touch it again. There are a few tips you should follow to keep things operating optimally.

Check the battery. If your system is automatic, there will likely be a battery that serves as a backup in case there is a power outage. This saves the configuration information so that the system knows when to water. If this battery is dead, your system may not work when it should.

Be aware of water restrictions. Some areas will only let you water a certain amount, or may forbid it entirely if there is a drought situation. You should try to stay up to speed on such restrictions.

Use cycle and soak for very thirsty areas. The cycle and soak method involves running your sprinklers over an area for an extended period of time, and then allowing that water to soak in before running another cycle.

Have a sprinkler system installed on your property today! Call Anoka sprinkler systems company Advanced Irrigation for a FREE irrigation systems quote at (612) 599-8675.

Does Your Home Need a Sprinkler System?

A sprinkler system can help keep your lawn in good condition by providing it with the right amount of hydration, and by doing so on a regular, automatic basis (instead of relying on you to remember). There are some, though, that can benefit from the installation of an irrigation system like sprinklers a great deal. If you fall under one of the following categories, you could probably use a sprinkler system on your property.

You live in a drought-prone area. If rain is something that comes along every once in a while, and you commonly go days at a time without seeing a single drop, your lawn could absolutely benefit from regular watering sessions via a sprinkler system.

You have incredibly thirsty plants. Some shrubs and flowers require a lot more water than others. If you have plants that are constantly sucking down all of the water you’re giving them, they’re probably a lot more thirsty a lot more often than some of your other plants, and regular waterings could do them a lot of good.

You’re interested in doing less work. That’s the beauty of automation, right? With an automatic sprinkler system, you have one less thing on your plate to worry about -- the watering of your lawn and plants. When a sprinkler system is installed on your property, you can utilize that time for other things and still end up with a beautiful looking landscape.

Call Advanced Irrigation to learn more about how Anoka sprinkler systems can help you! (612) 599-8675.

Dogs Love Sprinklers

Well, most of them do, anyway. On a hot summer day, what's not to love about a stream of cold water? Even if the pressure makes that water a bit harder to subdue than the kind a dog normally finds in a bowl.

A website called Animal's Look has published a collection of images featuring dogs who are either cooling off with, or trying to get a drink from, an ordinary sprinkler system.

Here are a few.











Looking to have a sprinkler system of your own installed? Give Advanced Irrigation a call today at (612) 599-8675.

Cover Your Sprinklers For Winter

When freezing temperatures hit your sprinklers in St. Paul, serious damage can be done to exposed faucets and pipes. As James Lucas, a writer for the Huntsville Item states, you should prioritize "Putting your garden to bed," including your sprinkler system.

"In our garden I began by covering all water faucets and wrapping exposed pipes. I'll include this obvious step in putting the garden to bed, because in my case I've had frozen sprinkler valves the past two winters - a very costly mistake. This year I spared no expense and wrapped and covered anything that could possibly be damaged by freezing temperatures."

Don't get caught with frozen sprinkler valves, yourself -- do your best to cover up any exposed pipes and faucets to keep things from freezing up and getting damaged. And, of course, if you have any problems with your irrigation system, give Advanced Irrigation a call at 612-599-8675.

Lawn Care FAQs

Here are some of the more common lawn care questions we get asked:

How high should my grass be mowed?

At least three inches or the highest setting on your mower. Never cut more than 1/3 of the grass height every time you mow.

How should I water my lawn?

Sprinkler systems are usually the best option. Your grass will receive deep, frequent waterings with automatic systems.

What’s the best way to remove weeds?

Either use a post-emergent herbicide or pull out the weeds by hand.

Can I level a bumpy lawn?

Yes. Fill in the low spots with 1/4-inch layer of topsoil or sand. You might find you have to fill gradually in low spots to avoid smothering the grass.

Should I use my clippings for mulch or bag them?

In most cases, mulch, as it returns nutrients and organic matter to the lawn. It will also help the lawn to retain water.

Advanced Irrigation knows Minneapolis lawn care. Enlist their services today by visiting www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com. 

Sprinkler Facts

If you’re not sold completely on the idea of sprinklers, here are some facts to consider:

• Sprinkler systems save water.
• Sprinklers can be installed after landscaping is done.
• Sprinklers can be easily updated.
• Your sprinkler system can be repaired easily in most cases.
• Sprinklers can be designed for your specific needs.

Advanced Irrigation knows sprinklers. Contact the Minneapolis sprinklers systems contractor by visiting www.Advanced-Irrigation-Minneapolis.com. 

Sprinklers FAQ – Part 2

Here are some more of the common questions we get about sprinklers:

Why is my rotary sprinkler not rotating?

If the sprinkler is no longer rotating or water flow has decreased, it could be the filter is clogged, so try cleaning it out. If this doesn’t solve the issue, then the internal assembly probably needs replaced.

What are irrigation zones? Do they matter?

Irrigation zones are planned before the system is installed. Each zone is divided by the amount of water needed for proper hydration. For example, zones in sunny areas might need water while zones in shaded areas can probably use less. These zone help determine water efficiency, meaning less waste.

What should I when starting my system up after the winter?

Have your irrigation system contractor go through their startup procedure, so they can make sure everything is in working order.

Does sprinkler system installation damage yards?

Installing a system requires pipe pulling, and many contractors have equipment and machines that install the pipe with minimal damage. Upon completion, the sprinkler lines are barely visible and will disappear as your lawn grows.

Do I need to winterize my system?

Yes. A winterized system will not be damaged during the cold months, while one that is not winterized can have frozen or damaged pipes or sprinkler heads.

How long does it take to install an irrigation system?

Many can be installed in one day, but depending on the size of the system and amenities, it might take longer.

Still have questions about sprinklers? Minneapolis sprinklers contractor Advanced Irrigation can help you at www.Advanced-Irrigation-Minneapolis.com. 

Sprinklers FAQ – Part 1

Here are some of the commonly asked questions we get regarding sprinklers:

How long should I water my lawn and garden?

This depends on your sprinkler system and its precipitation rate. A typical spray sprinklers run will water shrubs for 10 minutes, circle rotors for a half hour and full circle rotors for a full hour. Contact your local sprinkler installer to have your program set up.

What does a sprinkler system consist of?

The system efficiently waters your yard with sprinkler heads (spray or rotary) placed in a geometric pattern. It’s separated into zones to make the best use of water pressure and because your lawn’s watering needs vary by location. The final piece is a controller or timer dictates to the system when it operates.

My sprinklers won’t turn off.

Try unplugging the controller. If this does the trick, follow the manufacturer’s directions to reprogram the controller. Should the system not turn off, then turn off the water to the sprinklers and contact your sprinkler system company.

Do sprinklers conserve water?

Yes. One of the best reasons for getting an automatic irrigation system is they excel at water conservation. A system installed and maintained properly ensures total hydration coverage; and the correct water distribution, timing and calibration. The best time to water your plants is in the morning, as there is ample time for water to penetrate the ground, calmer wind and peak water pressure.

What do you think about rain sensors?

Rain sensors are one of the best ways to save water, as well as extend your system’s life. Plus, they allow your sprinklers to take a break when rain falls, so investigate adding one to your irrigation system.

Have sprinkler questions? Minneapolis sprinklers company Advanced Irrigation can help. Contact us by visiting www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com. 

Advanced Irrigation Has Tips on How to Tell if Your Sprinkler System is Leaking

No one likes a high water bill. The cost of everything is high already, so the last thing any of us need is to shell out more money on bills. If you’ve been noticing an increase in water usage – and hence your bill – your sprinkler system might be suffering from a water leak. Here are some ways to tell if your irrigation system has a hole in it: 

-          Shut off for a short a time all the water in your house. If your water meter still spins, then it could be a sprinklers leak. If this is the case, shut off all water to the system and call a professional like Advanced Irrigation.

-          If you notice broken sprinkler heads, then your system might have a leak.

-          If your system’s output has been weak and each sprinkler head is getting different coverage, a leak might be the culprit.

-          A leak can lead to brown spots on your yard. If you observe more and more brown spots, a water line or sprinkler head leak might be to blame.

-          Wet or soggy spots on your lawn could be due to an underground break. If you’ve ruled out all other issues, look next into an underground water leak.

-          Are your meter or valve boxes filled always with water, and it’s not the cause of other drainage issues? A sprinkler system leak might be to blame.

Advanced Irrigation serves the Twin Cities MN metro with sprinkler and irrigation systems. If you think your system has a leak, contact us today at 612.599.8675 or visit www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com.

Stay Green This Summer: Irrigation Systems Explained – Drip Sprinklers

Summertime is approaching, and the hot sun can have damaging effects on your lawn. We are often too busy to give our yards the proper care and watering they deserve, so we rely on our sprinkler systems. Is your lawn irrigation system right for your property? Over the past few weeks, Advanced Irrigation Inc., the full service lawn care, sprinkler systems and irrigation systems experts for the Twin Cities MN communities, explained in this blog the different types of systems and how they might best benefit you.

It’s a common sight across America’s farmlands: crops lined up, with tubing adjacent. Each crop thirsts for sustenance, depending on the pipes to quench them. Drip irrigation systems are popular with the agricultural sector as they are among the most efficient irrigation method, wasting less water. While your front yard might not be full of crops, you can still utilize drip sprinklers for your flower beds or small gardens.

How Drip Sprinklers Work

Drip sprinklers apply water directly to the soil, down to the root. This is unlike conventional sprinkler systems, which spray water all over the lawn. Water is less likely to be wasted, as the slow drips won’t be caught by the wind. A drip sprinkle irrigation system consists of several sprinklers connected to the same hose. These rise out of the ground to spray your lawn, giving it the needed humidity.

Installation Process

The time it will take to install any sprinkler system depends on the size of the project. You should hire a professional irrigation system contractor for any sprinkler system installation since digging and pipe work are involved. One foible could turn into a water leak, and in turn an increased water bill. Professionals will avert these costly errors.

Drip Sprinklers’ Advantages

As noted previously, drip sprinkler irrigation systems are one of the most efficient irrigation methods, with a 90% success rate. Like with any sprinkler system, you won’t have to spend hours every summer day watering your lawn. These systems are perfect for small flowers, since the flower bed will not be eroded.

Contact Advanced Irrigation today at 612.599.8675 or visit www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com to learn more about drip sprinklers and what they can do for your Twin Cities MN property.

Stay Green This Summer: Irrigation Systems Explained – Gear-Driven Rotors

Summertime is approaching, and the hot sun can have damaging effects on your lawn. We are often too busy to give our yards the proper care and watering they deserve, so we rely on our sprinkler systems. Is your lawn irrigation system right for your property? Over the next few weeks, Advanced Irrigation Inc., the full service lawn care, sprinkler systems and irrigation systems experts of the Twin Cities MN communities, will explain in this blog the different types of systems and how they might best benefit you.

It’s the sound that everyone associates with sprinklers: “Click. Click. Click. Click. Click.” Rotor-type sprinklers (also known as gear-driven rotors, impact rotors, rotary sprinkler heads and rainbirds) are what people think about when think of sprinkler systems. Whenever a local newscast is doing a story about droughts or something related to irrigation systems, rotor sprinklers are the ones you’ll see, all thanks to that sound.

How Rotor Sprinklers Work

Sprinklers fall into two main types: spray-type and rotor-type. As explained in the last blog entry, spray sprinklers used a fixed water stream (think shower head), while rotor-type sprinkler systems use one or multiple rotating streams to water the ground. As is the case with spray systems, there are two types of rotor sprinkler heads available: pop-ups (which are preferred due to the aesthetic advantages) and shrub-style.

Installation Process

The time it will take to install any sprinkler system depends on the size of the project. You should hire a professional irrigation system contractor for any sprinkler system installation since digging and pipe work are involved. One mistake could turn into a water leak, which could turn into an increased water bill. Professionals will avert these expensive foibles.

Gear-Driven Rotors’ Advantages

Gear-driven rotors can shoot out a stream of water to distances up to 50 feet, making them the perfect choice for those with large yards or lawns. This system also comes with a variety of nozzles that allow the water to be sent out in different patterns.

Contact Advanced Irrigation today at 612.599.8675 or visit www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com to learn more about gear-driven rotors and what they can do for your Twin Cities MN property.

Stay Green This Summer: Irrigation Systems Explained – Spray Heads

Summertime is approaching, and the hot sun can have damaging effects on your lawn. We are often too busy to give our yards the proper care and watering they deserve, so we rely on our sprinkler systems. Is your lawn irrigation system right for your property? Over the next few weeks, Advanced Irrigation Inc., the full service lawn care, sprinkler systems and irrigation systems experts of the Twin Cities MN communities, will explain in this blog the different types of systems and how they might best benefit you.

It’s 6 a.m. The sun is just rising over the horizon, and you’re in your car driving to work. You’re about ready to get on the highway and all of a sudden, they pop out of the ground, and everything green is sprinkled with water. Your car might even be a slight victim of this H2O assault.

Spray head sprinkler systems are one of the most popular systems for keeping yards lush and green. They’re viewed often as the de facto choice for homeowners who want to ensure their vivid, green grass doesn’t turn into a dry, brown mess.

How Spray Heads Work

Spray head systems bodies, like other sprinkler and/or irrigation systems, come in two styles: pop-up and shrub. Pop-up spray heads pop out of the ground whenever the system is operating, then drop back down once the spraying is complete. Shrub spray heads sprays water over the plants, as these heads are mounted above ground level on a vertical pipe.

Installation Process

The installation timeframe depends on the size of the project. Since a sprinkler system installation involves digging and pipe work, we recommend you use a professional irrigation system contractor instead of doing the work yourself. Any mistake could result in water leaks, which means a higher water bill. A professional will be able to avert these missteps.

Generally, the installation of a spray head system involves building a manifold, a group of control valves, followed by pipe laying and connecting the spray heads.

Spray Heads Advantages

Spray heads are perfect for precise irrigation control over small areas. Most spray heads have a spraying range of 5-15 feet, and water pressure varies between 20-30 PSI.

Pop-up spray heads are arguably the heads of choice for many homeowners. They don’t detract from the landscape, as they are virtually invisible once the job is done. Shrub spray heads are perfect for areas with many tall, dense shrubs, but being above ground and noticeable can cause second thoughts about its utilization. Plus, they can be damaged by lawn care equipment and should not be used in areas next to a sidewalk, path, driveway, etc.

Irrigation professionals like Advanced Irrigation will go over the pros and cons of both during an initial consultation. Call us today at 612.599.8675 or get a Free Estimate at www.AdvancedIrrigationMn.com.

Visit Advanced Irrigation’s website for a free estimate

We’re not interested in wasting your time. Before Advanced Irrigation starts working on any irrigation systems or sprinkler systems, we want you to know what expect. That is why we offer the option to obtain a Free Estimate through www.AdvancedIrrigation.com.

For your irrigation systems, sprinkler systems and lawn care needs contact Advanced Irrigation today at 612.599.8675 or visit www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com and get a FREE ESTIMATE!

6 Ways to Reduce Watering

You want your lawn to look beautiful. However, you don't have an excess of free time and a beautiful lush lawn takes a lot of lawn care. There's the planting, the weeding, the mowing, and of course the frequent watering. However, when all of these elements are put into practice, the result is a verdant, green yard, thick hedges and gorgeous flower gardens.

Fortunately, there are many ways and options available to lighten the load of yard care that were not available in years gone by. Today, there are seeders for spreading the grass seeds, an assortment of tools to make planting easier and many choices in sprinkler systems and irrigation systems so that dragging out the water hose each day is no longer necessary. Advanced Irrigation, serving the Minneapolis MN metro, is able to take care of all these duties and more.

Of course, with any lawn and garden, especially in Minneapolis, the biggest part of the job is maintenance - especially the weeding and the watering! So, if you are looking for some ways to save time - and often a bit of money - here are 6 ways you can reduce your time watering yet still have a gorgeous green lawn.

1. Keep your grass reasonably tall as this will help reduce evaporation. The taller grass protects the soil. You should also talk to the agricultural department for your area and find out what grass does best in your region. Oftentimes, having green grass is as simple as having the right kind planted. For example, Bermuda grass does great in regions where there is minimal water while Bluegrass requires more watering.
2. Improve your soil by using organic material and compost. Spread the compost on your lawn then work it into the soil using a top spreader. Using organic materials helps the soil to retain moisture longer and the aeration of working the soil promotes root growth. When your improved soil is combined with infrequent, deep watering the roots will be able to the grow stronger ad can take the soil's moisture to a deeper level.
3. Choose fertilizers that will promote healthy grass while keep bugs and pest away. However, keep in mind that you can reduce the amount of water needed by not over-fertilizing. The best thing you can do, is to keep chemicals away from your lawn!
4. Invest in an irrigation system with a timer. There are many irrigation systems available today. From large systems that have an assortment of valves, sprinklers and water lines to simple ones that can be installed by the homeowner. However, when selecting an irrigation system with a timer, be sure that the timer is equipped with a sensor that will shut down the irrigation system after it begins to rain.
5. Make sure that your lawn mower blades are sharp. Not only will sharp blades make it easier to cut your grass, but dull blades will also expose your grass more and lead to more rapid evaporation.
6. Pay attention to the weather reports. During drought conditions it is okay to let your lawn go dormant. This will not damage a healthy lawn.

Many websites provide additional information on the topic of irrigation and lawn care. One such site worth visiting is http://www.advancedirrigationmn.com.

Article independently authored by Janet M. Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Advanced Irrigation. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Commercial gallery highlights Advanced Irrigation’s work

Advanced Irrigation is well known in and around the Twin Cities MN metro for our designing and installations of residential sprinkler systems and irrigation systems, but we also design and install commercial sprinkler systems and irrigation systems.

We recently completed two big commercial projects – one sprinkler system and one irrigation system – and the images are now posted on the Commercial Project Gallery at www.AdvancedIrrrigationMN.com!

For your irrigation systems, sprinkler systems and lawn care needs contact Advanced Irrigation today at 612.599.8675 or visit www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com and get a FREE ESTIMATE!

Lawn Irrigation and Fertilizing - Proper Yard Maintenance for a Weed Free and Insect Free Property

Every individual has different interests and hobbies. More often than naught, lawn and property maintenance is not considered one of them. Deemed a chore rather than a relaxing past time, mowing grass, raking leaves and pulling weeds are generally a hassle. Of course, winter can give a welcomed respite from much of the physical labor, but only to be replaced by shoveling snow for many of the northern climates. Regardless of this time of year, it is necessary to begin thinking of and planning for the spring. A little preparation now will yield benefits for the rest of the year.

Although it may be cold outside, now is the time to begin thinking of spring time and ready the lawn with a pre-emergent fertilizer, which is commonly called a weed-and-feed fertilizer. Different species of grass will require specific types of fertilizer. There are many, however, that will treat a broad variety of grasses. Weeds are not the only burden to deal when maintaining a property.

Insects and other pests is also a never ending nuisance. An additional insect control application will also need to be applied. It is important to note that some of the chemical pesticides, as well as herbicides, can be absorbed into the vegetation and drinking water from a well source. For this reason it is important to exercise caution when applying these solutions in and near herb and vegetable gardens which will be used for food.

With all of these concerns, none is as important as proper watering, a functional sprinkler system or irrigation system. A home owner can spend thousands of dollars on landscaping, grass and fertilizers every year without the desired results. Even though the most important key aspect of lawn maintenance is irrigation, one would be surprised at how little many home owners recognize this fact.

Over-watering is just as bad as starving the lawn. Although irrigation is not an exact science there are definitely wrong ways of doing things. Trial and error will likely be an expensive method of dealing with pests and problem areas of the lawn. A better alternative is to hire an experienced and established sprinkler company to handle the monthly lawn maintenance.

Advanced Irrigation, serving the Minneapolis MN metro, provides an abundant array of other services, such as fertilizing, landscape lighting and full landscaping in addition to installing a sprinkler system and fine tuning it. It is important for the home owner to note that achieving the picture perfect lawn will always take several months once the decision has been made to hire an irrigation specialist. The first improvement which should be noticed within just a few weeks of proper fertilizing is that the grass should be a rich and healthy green color. If after a month of fertilizing and proper watering does not yield any positive improvements, questions need to be asked. There may be an underlying problem which has not before been noticed.

Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Advanced Irrigation. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.