Which Type of Irrigation Loses the Most Water to Evaporation?
Many sprinkler system design methods are known to lose water through runoff, evaporation, and overwatering; to date, none are 100% efficient. Sprinklers, hoses, drip irrigation, and watering cans are some of the most common irrigation methods used in gardens and yards today. Sprinklers will generally lose the most water to evaporation because they spray water through the air; that being said, other factors can often affect evaporation. Gardeners can reduce this through mulching, irrigation timing, and other such techniques.
Sprinkler Irrigation
Sprinklers waste anywhere from 30 to 50% of water through evaporation and other such factors. Water from sprinklers will frequently evaporate before it has time to reach the ground and from the surface of the soil. Sprinklers cause runoff and apply water where it is not required. To reduce this, irrigate with sprinklers only when the soil is dry, so the water soaks in straight away; failing that, install soil moisture sensors if the system is an automatic one. Rain sensors will prevent systems from coming on during or after rainfall. Sprinklers, however, are not recommended for vegetable gardens and bedding plants, as they will encourage leaf diseases.
Drip Irrigation
These irrigation devices will sit on the soil surface and do not spray; this reduces evaporation. Drip tape, soaker hoses, and mainline tubing and emitters are all forms of drip irrigation systems. Water seeps out of soaker hoses and drip tape via fibrous material or holes, and emitters will drip water at a set rate. Systems will either work using automatic timers or manually and are almost 90% water efficient. To reduce evaporation when using drip irrigation, lay down a 3-inch layer of coarse mulch, like wood chips or shredded bark. Garden compost and other fine mulches have been known to block drip irrigation holes.
For information pertaining to the sprinkler system design services and products Taylor Irrigation has to offer, please do not hesitate to dial this number (817) 736-2811 now; we are based in the Burleson, TX area.