Above Ground Sprinkler Systems: Easy Installation and Maintenance Tips

Before diving into installation and maintenance, let’s explore why above ground sprinkler systems are a great choice:

• Easy Installation – No need for digging or professional help—just connect and place the sprinklers.
• Affordable – Costs significantly less than an in-ground irrigation system.
• Versatile – Can be moved or adjusted to accommodate landscaping changes.
• Simple Repairs – No need to dig up buried pipes if there’s an issue.
  

For homeowners and businesses looking for cost-effective irrigation solutions, an above ground sprinkler system is the perfect option.

Installing an above ground sprinkler system is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced plumbing or technical skills. Follow these steps to get started:

Before you set up your system, map out where your sprinklers should go. Consider the following:

• Lawn & Garden Size – Determine how much ground you need to cover.
• Water Pressure – Test your home’s water pressure to see how many sprinklers you can run at once.
• Sprinkler Overlap – Position sprinklers so they evenly cover the entire lawn without excessive overlap.
  

There are different types of above ground sprinklers, each designed for specific watering needs:

• Oscillating Sprinklers – Best for rectangular lawns.
• Rotary Sprinklers – Great for even water distribution in circular patterns.
• Stationary Sprinklers – Ideal for small, fixed areas.
• Impact Sprinklers – High-pressure sprinklers perfect for large lawns or commercial spaces.
  

Once you’ve selected your sprinklers, connect them to a high-quality garden hose attached to your outdoor faucet. You can use:

• A Hose Splitter – Allows you to run multiple sprinklers simultaneously.
• A Timer – Automates watering to ensure consistent irrigation.
  

Turn on your sprinklers and check for proper coverage. Adjust their placement and direction to eliminate dry spots and prevent water waste.

Proper maintenance ensures your ground sprinkler system runs efficiently year-round. Here are some essential upkeep tasks:

Periodically check hoses, connectors, and sprinkler heads for leaks or cracks. Replace worn-out parts to prevent water waste.

Dirt and mineral deposits can clog sprinkler nozzles, affecting water distribution. To clean them:

• Remove the nozzle and rinse it under running water.
• Use a small brush or soak it in vinegar to dissolve mineral buildup.
  

Even though Tucson rarely experiences freezing temperatures, it’s still a good idea to drain and store sprinklers during colder months to prevent wear and tear.

If your sprinklers aren’t performing well, inspect your hose for blockages. Detach the hose and flush it with water to clear any obstructions.

To keep your lawn green while minimizing water waste, follow these best practices:

Automating your ground sprinkler system ensures your lawn gets watered at the best times of day:

• Early Morning (5-9 AM) – Reduces evaporation.
• Late Evening (6-9 PM) – Allows moisture to soak into the soil overnight.
  

Tucson’s hot summers require frequent watering, while cooler months may require less frequent irrigation. Adjust your settings accordingly.

Too much water can lead to shallow root growth and increased water bills. Make sure your soil absorbs water properly before extending your sprinkler run times.

Even well-maintained above ground sprinklers can develop issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems:

• Check for kinks in the hose.
• Make sure multiple sprinklers aren’t overwhelming the system.
• Clean any clogged nozzles to restore proper flow.
  

• Adjust the sprinkler placement to improve coverage.
• Ensure all nozzles are free of debris.
  

• Tighten hose fittings.
• Replace damaged washers or connectors.
  

While above ground sprinkler systems are easy to install and maintain, some situations require expert assistance. Contact Twisted Palms Irrigation if you experience:

• Persistent water pressure issues affecting sprinkler performance.
• Frequent leaks or broken components causing water waste.
• Advanced irrigation needs, such as drip irrigation or automatic timers.

Our team provides professional sprinkler system installation, repair, and maintenance to keep your landscape healthy year-round.

At Twisted Palms Irrigation, we take pride in providing reliable above-ground sprinkler system solutions in Tucson, AZ. Whether you need a new ground sprinkler system or help troubleshooting an existing setup, we’re here to help! We also install irrigation systems and drip irrigation.

Call us today at (520) 808-5483 to schedule an appointment and keep your lawn looking its best!