Wind may also cause problems with maintaining even distribution of water. The labor considerations required to move much of the portable equipment can be a challenge and should not be taken lightly. The major advantages of low-volume systems over other systems are the ability to manage timing and placement of soil moisture and to use less total water to produce a crop. Other advantages are reduction in runoff, the ability to do other cultural practices while irrigating, and, in some cases, reduced labor. When combined with other practices, such as raised beds, black plastic mulch, and closer plant spacings, the use of low-volume systems can result in increased yields, earlier harvests, better quality, and higher profits.
Water conservation is especially important during droughts.
In addition to more efficient use of water, low-volume systems lend themselves to automation. One common problem with irrigation systems is forgetting to turn off the water. To solve this problem the pump would be connected to a tensiometer or timer to shut off the pump at the right time. This saves both water and energy. Low-volume systems also require familiarization with new technology.