Understanding Your Irrigation System: Key Components Explained

Knowing the components of your irrigation system can help you better understand how it works and why quality matters. Here's a breakdown of the essential parts we install and trust.

Rotary Sprinkler Heads

These heads are designed to irrigate large open areas of turf. They throw a stream of water out of a single nozzle, and the top portion of the head rotates. They are constructed of durable plastic with a rubber cover. The rotation is gear-driven to provide a slow, quiet motion and easy adjustments from 40 to 360 degrees.

We use Hunter Rotary Heads in our systems.

Spray Heads

These heads are designed to irrigate small areas of turf and shrub beds. They do not rotate. Instead, they have adjustable nozzles that distribute water in a circular or semi-circular pattern, and some emit water in a strip pattern. They are made from the same durable plastic as the rotors.

We use Rain Bird 1800 Spray Heads in our systems.

Electric Diaphragm Valves

Electric diaphragm valves are control valves that direct water into different areas of the system (zones). Each valve controls one zone. As one valve opens, the other valves shut, ensuring only one zone operates at a time. These valves work off low-voltage wires that connect to the controller. The controller sends signals to open and close valves as needed. Valves are located in control boxes under the ground.

We use Irritrol 2400 Valves and Rain Bird 100 DV Valves in our systems.

Controller (or Clock)

The controller is the brain of the system. It can be programmed to tell the system when to turn on and how long to run. Each zone can be set to water for different amounts of time, preventing overwatering or underwatering. The controller starts on the first zone and automatically advances through the cycle. You can also program multiple schedules to adapt to changing weather. Most residential controllers are installed indoors, typically in a basement or garage, though outdoor models are also available.

We use Rain Bird, Hunter, and Rachio controllers in our systems.

Backflow Prevention

Every irrigation system must include a device that prevents water from backing up into the water source. We use a Vacuum Pressure Breaker or Backflow Preventer, installed by a licensed plumber directly after the water line exits the house. Plumbing for the backflow device is always included in the system price—there’s no additional cost to you.

Rain Sensor

We use Mini-Click Rain Sensors in our systems. These sensors are mounted on or near your home and are wired into the low-voltage portion of the system. They absorb moisture during rainfall and automatically shut the system off. Once dry, the system resumes normal operation automatically.

Pipe

Not all pipe is created equal. NSF Pipe meets strict requirements for uniformity and pressure ratings. Some contractors use non-NSF pipe, which is made with lower-quality materials, not tested as thoroughly, and can be inconsistent. While non-NSF pipe is cheaper, it's also riskier.

We only use NSF Pipe in our systems.

Fittings, Valve Boxes, and Wire

We use only the highest quality materials. Our fittings are purpose-made and distributed specifically for irrigation systems. We use Baron Low Voltage Wire in all our installations. This commitment to quality is why we’re confident in our systems and service.