The first in-ground lawn sprinkler systems were installed in the Lakes Region in the 1980s and '90s. These aging systems, once considered state-of-the art, are not nearly as efficient as the systems designed and installed today. If your irrigation system is five or more years old, it might be time for a retrofit. A system retrofit might be necessary due to changes in your landscape, advances in new technology or you may be looking for an opportunity to conserve water. A few simple steps can be taken to upgrade your existing system, without tearing up the entire lawn.

1. Upgrade or replace existing sprinkler heads. One of the quickest and most affordable ways to improve the efficiency of you irrigation system is to replace the nozzles in your sprinkler heads. Today's nozzles can use up to 30 percent less water than their aging ancestors. New nozzles utilize matched precipitation rates and deliver a water stream at a rate at which the ground can absorb. This eliminates runoff and evaporation. If the sprinkler heads are too old, and are not compatible with new nozzles, than the entire head can be replaced with a new, more efficient model.

2. Install a smart controller. A smart controller offers far more options than the simple rotary timer. A smart controller, such as the Pro Ex 2.0, can be programmed to fit your landscape's unique needs. Factors such soil type, plant type and weather conditions are all monitored. These controllers also have the ability to sense leaks and shut down the system and can even be synced with your wireless internet for remote monitoring.

3. Upgrade plant beds to drip irrigation. Drip irrigation is a great way to conserve water by reducing water usage up to 30 to 60 percent. Drip irrigation eliminates many of the issues associated with overhead watering, such as over spraying, wind and evaporation. It also allows water to be delivered directly to the root zone, which avoids watering areas where plants are not.

If you are interested in retrofitting your irrigation system for any of the reasons stated in this article, find an irrigation contractor that can perform an audit of your system.

John Lahey, Owner of Winnipesaukee Irrigation