Frequently
Asked Questions
Existing Irrigation Systems
During the spring start up we will re-charge your system water, check for leaks and damage, and check your sprinkler head zones and adjust them accordingly. We will also check and adjust your automatic rain sensor, test your backflow device and submit its results to the state. If needed, we will also make adjustments to your system based on plant growth or changes in your landscaping.
The state of Indiana requires that a backflow prevention device be installed on all residential and commercial irrigation systems connected to a potable water source. Backflow prevention devices are required in safeguarding our drinking water supply and protect if from contaminants like pesticides or other hazardous materials.
Custom Touch Irrigation has on staff state certified backflow prevention device technicians who will test your backflow device and ensure that it is working properly.
Call us if you are planning a major home renovation or landscaping changes, and we will analyze your current system and recommend adjustments to accommodate for new construction, turf or plantings.
High or fluctuating water pressure can cause sprinklers to mist or fog, which means that water is not being delivered to your lawn and garden at the optimal rate. A low water-pressure situation can also affect your sprinklers’ performance, leading to areas that do not get proper water coverage.
Sometimes water can puddle or pool around sprinklers installed at the bottom of slopes or hills, causing soggy areas, which can kill grass or encourage fungus to grow. Call Custom Touch and we can recommend the correct rotors and nozzles that deliver water at a lower rate, allowing sufficient soak-in time and preventing run-off.
The issue with your sprinkler systems is most likely related to the valve in your system that operates the zone that continues to run. Or, sometimes a sprinkler head is positioned lower than the others (such as at the bottom of a hill or incline), and standing water in your pipes will flow there when your system is turned off. If there is enough water, it can build enough pressure to push up through the head and cause the head to trickle or leak. Call Custom Touch and we can make the appropriate adjustments to your heads and valves.
You may have multiple start times programmed into your timer. Each start time will run all of your stations (zones) in order until the watering cycle is complete. See your controller’s user manual or call Custom Touch for assistance in reprogramming your controller.
The pattern of your sprinkler heads may need to be adjusted or replaced, or you may not have enough water pressure and water flow to properly operate all of your heads. Call Custom Touch and we can determine if you have heads that need adjustment or replacement.
New Irrigation Systems
No, in fact, an automatic sprinkler system may actually save you water. A well designed, properly installed irrigation system applies exactly the amount of water needed by your landscape, exactly when it’s needed. You will never again have to worry about wasting water if you forget to turn off the hose or if it rains.
Yes. No more spending your valuable leisure time dragging a hose around or moving your sprinkler. Your new system will do all the watering for you – even when you are away from home!
An automatic sprinkler system will do a more efficient job because we will design it based on your landscape’s diverse watering needs, using specific products designed to water grass, trees, shrubs or garden plants.
A typical residential irrigation system is comprised of a controller (which functions as the brains of the system), valves (which open and close to release and stop the flow of water to each zone) and sprinkler heads (which distribute water to specific areas). The system is connected to your home’s water supply through your water meter. The sprinkler system can be customized further with rain shut off devices, soil moisture sensors and drip irrigation zones.
A Custom Touch Irrigation consultant will discuss your needs and evaluate your property’s characteristics, and then budget and design a custom system for you. We will consider such factors as water source and pressure, soil type, plant material and weather conditions.
We begin with a consultation. Every irrigation system and piece of property is unique. We start by reviewing each site and listening to your needs and ideas.
We then move on to the design phase. Here we map out sprinkler head locations and develop a hydraulically correct system that will work efficiently, meeting your needs for years to come. Our consultant will then show you a detailed drawing of the irrigation design, go over the installation process, discuss features and answer questions and discuss the installation fee.
Finally, it’s time for installation. A supervisor is assigned to you who will oversee the crew and ensure that all system components are installed according to Custom Touch’s high standards. Once installation is complete, the supervisor will demonstrate how the system works and how to use the irrigation equipment.
You can install an automatic sprinkler system on your own. As with any home improvement project, you should consider all the aspects of the project before you begin, starting with understanding the time and tools necessary to complete the job. This can be accomplished by consulting local nurseries and hardware and plumbing stores. You must also consult local plumbing and electrical codes. Most municipalities require a backflow preventer to prevent the flow of irrigation water into the main drinking water supply. It is better to know the code requirements before you begin the installation to avoid costly mistakes.
It depends. Remember, product cost is only one part of an efficient irrigation system. Many people choose to hire an experienced professional irrigation contractor who will bring years of experience in irrigation design and installation. Contractors have also invested heavily in specialized installation equipment to help speed up the job and many have gone through detailed training courses and certifications.
The price of a system depends upon many factors such as property size, type of landscaping, number of zones, products used and special designs.
Custom Touch offers a wide selection of the most advanced sprinkler timers and controllers that are powerful enough to meet your customized watering needs, while being simple to program and adjust. The newest “smart controllers” even adjust themselves automatically based on changing weather, temperature and rainfall, so all you need to do is sit back and relax
Yes, you can. Smaller areas can be difficult to water and often sprinklers end up watering sidewalks, driveways or spraying against the house or garage. Custom Touch can design a system for you utilizing low-volume nozzles that will precisely water where you need it.
The old adage “you get what you pay for” applies. Unfortunately, most low-cost, high-volume irrigation contractors are are only concerned with hooking you with a low price, getting the job, installing it and moving on to the next unsavvy homeowner. The difference between a low cost, mass-produced irrigation system is typically evident in the quality of the product used, the level of expertise of the designers and installers and the availability (or lack) of responsive and competent service professionals. An irrigation system changes and evolves over time. Consistent service ensures that your irrigation system is working effectively, which saves you money in the long run.
Maintaining your irrigation system is one of the most effective ways to reduce water waste and ensure the optimal health of your lawn and landscape. At a minimum, systems should be serviced twice a season and inspected twice a season.