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Above-Ground Sprinkler System: What Is It?

  • Homeowners Insurance
  • Gerard Stevens
  • 6 minutes

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So bought or built your dream home? It should have a beautiful lawn or garden! Maintaining your lawn or garden by hand can be time-consuming, but a sprinkler system can make the job much easier. Then what about having an aboveground sprinkler system? 

Why is that preferred? Installing a below-ground irrigation system can be expensive. So, suppose you want to have a more affordable and flexible option. In that case, an aboveground sprinkler system can be the ideal choice.  

Selecting the best sprinkler system for your lawn’s specific needs can help you save water and time. Our article covers what an above-ground sprinkler system consists of and the types of sprinklers available! Keep reading to know in detail.  

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What is an above-ground sprinkler system? 

It refers to all sprinkler systems with entire operating components above ground rather than being connected to an underground water system. Above-ground sprinkler systems are more affordable and less invasive than underground sprinkler systems. These are easy to install and offer more flexibility if you like to move the system or use it in multiple areas. 

What are the types of aboveground sprinkler systems? 

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There are mainly five types of aboveground sprinkler systems. 

Pulsating sprinklers 

As they rotate, pulsating sprinklers spray water in a circular motion. They can be attached to a sturdy base or a stake that you can insert into the ground. 

Oscillating sprinklers 

An oscillating sprinkler is made of a tube with multiple holes that move side to side to cover a big area with water. These sprinklers are ideal for covering a rectangular-shaped area. But if your yard has an unusual shape, an oscillating sprinkler may find it difficult to water it evenly. 

Traveling sprinklers 

These handy little devices use water pressure to move back and forth across your yard to cover a larger area. Traveling sprinklers can be a good option if you have a bigger area to cover but don’t want to transfer sprinklers around often. However, they are more costly than other sprinklers. You may need to be more tactical about your setup if it gets stuck on a particular terrain in your property.  

Stationary sprinklers 

A stationary sprinkler may be ideal if you only need to water one or a few small areas. They have various spray patterns, making watering an unevenly shaped area easier. Stationary sprinklers are also relatively cheap, making them an ideal choice for people on a tight budget. 

Sprinkler hoses 

It’s just a hose with holes all the way through. Because hoses are flexible, you can use them to cover irregularly shaped or narrow areas. 

How can you choose an above-ground sprinkler system? 

Are you looking for the right sprinkler for your lawn? Then consider these factors before choosing one.  

Purpose: Whether you want to water your entire lawn or focus on a small area, how you set up your above-ground sprinkler system will depend on your purpose.  

Yard size and shape: The size and shape of your yard will influence which sprinkler type you should choose and how many you’ll need. 

Price: You can buy sprinklers for as little as $5, while more advanced systems can cost up to $100. 

Special features: Some accessories like timers or clog-free nozzles can make managing your above-ground sprinkler system easier. 

The number of sprinklers: You may only need one to cover a small area, but you must use multiple sprinklers for large areas. 

Sprinkler type(s): Depending on your requirements, you can use one or a combination of sprinkler types to cover the desired area. 

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How to install an aboveground sprinkler system 

So, zeroed in on the sprinkler system? Then comes the installation part, which you must do carefully. These are the steps you must follow for the installation. 

  • Pay attention to any specific installation instructions for the sprinkler you choose. 
  • If necessary, set the sprinkler(s) to the wanted settings.  
  • Connect to a water supply. 
  • Allow the water to flow, and test your new sprinkler system.  
  • Make any required changes. 

How to maintain an aboveground sprinkler system 

You must take proper care of the sprinkler system if you want them to water your lawn for a long time. The following are some tips that you can follow.  

  • Don’t operate your sprinklers for too long. Overwatering wastes water, increases your utility bill, and damages the plants in your yard. 
  • Don’t operate the system before the temperatures drop below freezing. Operating your sprinklers in freezing temperatures may crack your hose or damage the water line or the sprinkler itself. 
  • Regularly inspect for clogs to avoid the risk of burst pipes inside your home. 
  • While not using, properly store your sprinkler system. When you don’t use your sprinkler system long, debris, insects, and roots can get inside. When not using, keep your sprinkler system components in a cool, dry place to avoid extreme temperatures. 

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How much does an above-ground sprinkler system cost? 

A standard in-ground sprinkler system costs between $1,740 and 3,400. However, an above-ground sprinkler system costs between $1,800 and $2,000 for a 1-acre plot.  

What are some low-maintenance options for sprinklers?  

An above-ground, oscillating sprinkler is simple to install. For a more permanent solution, gear-drive rotor sprinklers have a protected body that needs less cleaning. 

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Does home insurance cover an above-ground sprinkler system?

It varies based on your insurer and the policy. Ideally, a policy won’t cover the above-ground sprinkler system as it comes under ‘additional structure’ coverage. However, you may still be able to find some sprinkler system coverage under personal property protection.

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