Landscape Homeowner Frequently Asked Questions

Drip irrigation is a method of watering plants by delivering water directly to the root zone through a network of tubing, emitters, and sometimes drip tape. It works by slowly dripping water to the soil, allowing it to be absorbed efficiently while minimizing evaporation and runoff.

Drip irrigation is particularly effective for garden beds, vegetable patches, trees, and shrubs. While it is more prevalent in planting beds, it is just as suitable and efficient for lawns. The best time to install drip irrigation in lawns is when a new lawn is being established, as this keeps costs as economical as possible. Overhead sprinklers are more commonly used in lawns due to their lower installation costs.

• Plan the layout: Map out your garden beds, lawn areas, and plant locations. Identify garden beds separately from lawn areas, as lawns typically require more water. Separate these into zones to provide tailored irrigation. 
• Choose the system components: Select main piping, dripper tubing, plug-on emitters, filters, pressure regulators, and connectors. 
• Install the main line: Run the piping from the water source to each planting zone. 
• Install the drip tubing: For plug-on emitters, run blank tubing around plants in the bed. For dripperline with pre-spaced emitters, run the tubing back and forth through the bed like radiant heating. 
• Add emitters: Place emitters or dripline at the base of each plant.
• Test the system: Turn on the water to check for leaks and ensure even water distribution. 

Drip irrigation can save up to 50% more water compared to traditional sprinkler systems by delivering water directly to the roots, reducing evaporation and runoff.

Yes, as long as the lawn and garden areas are separated into distinct zones. 

The water required depends on plant type, soil conditions, and climate. Generally, garden plants need ½ to 2 inches of water per week, while lawns need 1½ to 2 inches. Use a moisture meter or manually check the soil’s moisture to adjust watering times.

Yes, a pressure regulator ensures water is delivered at a consistent and safe pressure (20–30 PSI, with a maximum of 58 PSI). Excessive pressure can damage the system or cause uneven watering.

• Check for clogged emitters or filters. Most Netafim emitters are self-cleaning and release a 2–3” stream of water when cleaning themselves. 
• Inspect tubing for damage or leaks. 
• Flush the system periodically to remove debris. 
• Clean filters regularly to prevent clogs.

Typically, run the system 2–3 times a week, adjusting based on seasons and weather conditions. Hot weather may require more frequent irrigation.

Yes, attach a timer to your water source for consistent watering. Choose a smart irrigation controller certified by the EPA’s WaterSense program.

Check soil moisture using a knife or screwdriver. If the soil is dry, consult a contractor. Consider installing a flow sensor to monitor water usage and detect leaks or clogs.

• Install filters to remove debris from the water. 
• Use high-quality, self-cleaning emitters like those from Netafim. 
• Regularly flush the system to remove buildup. 

Plan the new layout, ensuring compatibility of tubing and emitters. Connect new sections, maintaining proper pressure regulation.

Shut off the water supply and drain the system. Use compressed air to remove water from the tubing. Remove and store components if possible.

Yes, pressure-compensating emitters and check valves ensure even water distribution on slopes.

All plants benefit from drip irrigation, particularly those prone to diseases caused by wet foliage, like roses. Consult your local USDA Extension Service for plant-specific water needs.

Run the suspected section, inspect for wet spots or hissing sounds, and check flow rates using a flow sensor or pressure gauge.

• Drip tape: Flat, flexible, and typically used for row crops. 
• Dripline: Round, heavy-duty tubing with built-in emitters for long-term use.

Use emitters with varying flow rates (e.g., 1 GPH or 2 GPH). Larger plants or zones may require higher-flow emitters.

A system with heavy-wall dripline can last 10–20+ years with proper maintenance.

Yes, it conserves water, reduces waste, and minimizes soil erosion.

Disc filters are more effective, removing 93% of debris compared to 65% by screen filters.

Yes, Netafim emitters self-clean by releasing a short stream of water. If water shoots over 5”, contact your installer.

Orientation doesn’t matter as buried lines twist naturally and still soak the soil effectively.

Check filters monthly and clean as needed, based on water quality.

Yes, it saves water and reduces waste. Netafim driplines contain 20% recycled plastic.

Use item #TLMTUBEADP to cover the hole and connect micro-tubing. Avoid using glue.