Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about lawn maintenance and irrigation systems? We are happy to provide a list of questions regarding proper lawn watering practices and inground sprinkler systems.

Committed to complete, quality lawn care

Q. How does having an inground sprinkler system save me time and money?
A. From a time-saving standpoint, having an automatic inground sprinkler system allows you to spend your valuable leisure time on more important things than having to manually pull a hose to water your lawn. Your new system will do all the watering for you - even when you're away from home. And concerning the cost-effectiveness, sprinkler systems prevent water run-off from over-watering or wasting water when you forget to turn off your hose.  Inground sprinkler systems are programmed to water each area of your lawn and garden at the optimal time and at the optimal amount. No more and no less.

 

Q. Do automatic sprinkler systems water as well as I can water manually?
A. It will actually do a far superior job because a professionally designed and installed irrigation system will consistently deliver the perfect amount of water for your lawn and garden for optimal health. A properly designed system will ensure those special plants and hard to get corners receive the exact amount required.

 

Q. Can I save money by installing my own system?
A. No. In fact, it could cost you more money in the long run. Installation of sprinkler systems should be handled by professionals, who can design and install the most resource efficient and cost effective system for your particular property. And because Nutri-Lawn is familiar with local plumbing and electrical codes, you won't have to worry about costly mistakes in wiring or pipe installation. We can do the job faster and with less disruption to your existing landscape, and we guarantee our work.

Q. What type of equipment is required for inground sprinkler systems?
A. There are five basic components to every automatic sprinkler system: the timer or controller which manages things like the watering schedule acting as the brains of the system, underground piping, irrigation valves, sprinkler heads (rotor and popup) and a rain sensor.

 

Q. Will I have difficulty operating my inground sprinkler system?
A. We will personally take you through how the controller functions as well as provide you with detailed written instructions.  Your system will be set to work on a schedule that is best for your particular property. Once explained, you will be able to easily change the watering schedule by just following the step-by-step instructions provided.

 

Q. What are “watering zones” and what role do they play in irrigation design?
A. Watering zones are an important aspect of sprinkler system design that allows for precise and targeted water distribution, which saves you money by cutting down on water run-off and over-watering. Nutri-Lawn will program each watering schedule based on the size of the area being watered and its unique watering requirements. Certain areas of your lawn and garden may require different amounts of water for optimal health and growth. For example, an area with northern exposure may require less watering than one with a southern exposure.

 

Q. How does soil type affect lawn and garden irrigation?
A. Your soil type can dictate your schedule for lawn and garden irrigation, both for the purposes of plant health and for water conservation. Sandy soils tend to dry out quickly, so they require more frequent watering than clay soils. You’ll waste water on sandy soil types if you apply too much all at once, since the water will quickly penetrate and pass through the porous earth – right past the root zone. For plants in sandy soils, timers should be programmed to release water over several short periods. Plants in clay soils should also be watered over several short periods – but for a different reason. You need to give the water time to soak into the earth. If you water too much all at once, the water will just run off and is wasted. Because clay soils retain water well, you should water less frequently to prevent your plant and grass roots from oversaturation.

 

Q. How much does it typically cost to install an inground sprinkler system?
A. Since every irrigation system is unique, the price will vary depending on factors such as property size, type of landscaping and special design requirements. But you can count on Nutri-Lawn to design a cost-effective system comprised of top-quality products. We are very experienced at designing and installing systems that achieve maximum results. We stand behind all of our products and are committed to quality construction and attentive after-sale service.

 

Q. Do you repair and service existing sprinkler systems even if you did not install it?
A. Yes, our trained service technicians are familiar with all types of systems, major and minor brands.  With 20 years of experience we can provide excellent service for any system.

 

Q. Can I use my underground well as a water source? 
A. Yes, we can design a system based on the gallon per minute and the size of the motor.

 

Q. Do you have a permanent place of business?
A. Yes, we own 2 service and training facilities: 1038 Belfast Rd and 2046 Carp Rd. We have been in business for over 35 years.

 

Q. Is there an effective communications system in place if I require service or will I have to play phone tag?
A. You will always speak to the right person when you call Nutri-Lawn.  Our phone system will direct you to the Irrigation Division so a skilled person can assist you.

 

Q. Do you provide references?
A. Absolutely!  Just ask and we would be more than happy to provide references.

 

Q. Are you in good standing with the Better Business Bureau?
A. We have been a member of the BBB since 1991 and have not just been a member, but an accredited member from the start.

 

Q. Are Inground Sprinkler Systems a full time venture for you or just a part time hobby?
A. Full time, no question. Nutri-Lawn service group’s fleet is comprised of over 100 vehicles of which approximately 30 of those are dedicated to Irrigations systems. Our office staff are full time year round, not just part time seasonal, so you are assured of top quality standards at all times.

 

Q. If an employee is injured on my property do you carry the proper insurance or would that go under my insurance?
A. There are very few Irrigation Companies in Ottawa that are WSIB compliant and carry full third party insurance in case of any accident. We carry all necessary and required insurance and have the certificates available for you at any time.

 

Q. What is the annual maintenance required for inground sprinkler systems?
A. The annual maintenance for inground sprinkler systems includes a Spring Start-Up Service to power up the controller, check the mainline, test the system, and adjust the watering schedule (repairs cost extra), and a Fall Winterization Service to shut off the water, use compressed air to clear the system, and inspect for complete water discharge. Additionally, a Mid-Season Check is recommended to adjust the system for weather and plant growth changes, with an option for a second check for optimal efficiency. Extra repairs during checks are charged additionally.

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