A drip system can be as simple as a few emitters on a specific zone to a series of drip zones that water foundation plantings, container-grown flowers, and vegetable gardens. In all cases, drip installations require additional and more complex equipment than the typical sprinkler system, including pressure reducing equipment and filters. With a drip system, the valves and controller must be carefully selected to ensure they are compatible with the watering times and flow rates used in drip irrigation. For some, drip irrigation works like a charm. For others, it is a curse.
Drip irrigation is a high maintenance method of applying water.
It needs to be monitored regularly. Problems with a drip system may be harder to pinpoint and more difficult to fix. The small openings in drip emitters and tubes can easily be clogged by small contaminants or lime deposits. Poor filtration and back siphoning of contaminants into the emitters can render the system ineffective in a short time. Make sure your irrigation contractor is experienced with drip installations before utilizing a drip system in your landscape.