Key Takeaways
| Key Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Average Total Cost | $1,800 – $5,200 |
| Cost Per Zone Installed | $500 – $1,000 |
| National Average Cost | $3,100 |
| Minimum and Maximum Costs | $400 – $10,000 |
| Type & Cost Variations | In-ground, Drip, Commercial |
| DIY vs Professional Install | Potential Savings and Considerations |
| Lawn Size Impact | Costs scale with size |
| Additional Costs | Permits, Accessories, Maintenance |
Average Total Cost To Install A Sprinkler System
Installing a sprinkler system typically costs between $1,800 and $5,200. These costs can vary based on several factors such as the size of the lawn, the type of system, and additional features.
Cost Per Zone Installed
The cost to install a sprinkler system per zone ranges from $500 to $1,000. Most residential sprinkler systems have multiple zones to ensure efficient watering.
Sprinkler System Cost
Lawn Size And Total Cost
The size of your lawn plays a significant role in determining the overall cost of the sprinkler system installation.
| Lawn Size | Total Cost To Install |
|---|---|
| 1/8 acre | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| 1/4 acre | $2,000 – $4,500 |
| 1/3 acre | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| 1/2 acre | $3,500 – $6,500 |
| 1 acre | $6,000 – $10,000 |
Number Of Zones
The number of zones required also directly influences the cost.
| Number of Zones | Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 zone | $500 – $1,000 |
| 2 zones | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| 3 zones | $1,500 – $2,700 |
| 4 zones | $2,000 – $3,600 |
| 5 zones | $2,500 – $4,500 |
| 6 zones | $3,000 – $4,800 |
| 7 zones | $3,500 – $5,600 |
Lawn Sprinkler System Cost Estimator
Average Cost Of Sprinkler System
| Metric | Cost |
|---|---|
| National Average Cost | $3,100 |
| Minimum Cost | $400 |
| Maximum Cost | $10,000 |
| Average Range | $1,800 – $5,200 |
Sprinkler System Cost Calculator
A sprinkler system cost calculator helps determine the total investment needed based on specific metrics.
| Metric | Cost |
|---|---|
| Per Square Foot | $0.20 – $2 |
| Per Zone | $500 – $1,000 |
| Per Acre | $6,000 – $10,000 |
Sprinkler System Cost Per Acre
The total cost varies depending on the acreage.
| Acres | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 1/8 | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| 1/4 | $2,000 – $4,500 |
| 1/3 | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| 1/2 | $3,500 – $6,500 |
| 1 | $6,000 – $10,000 |
| 2 | $11,000 – $18,000 |
| 3 | $16,000 – $27,000 |
| 5 | $25,000 – $45,000 |
Sprinkler System Cost Per Zone
Costs per zone highlight the pricing flexibility available.
| Number of Zones | Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 | $500 – $1,000 |
| 2 | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| 3 | $1,500 – $2,700 |
| 4 | $2,000 – $3,600 |
| 5 | $2,500 – $4,500 |
| 6 | $3,000 – $4,800 |
| 7 | $3,500 – $5,600 |
Home Irrigation System Cost Per Square Foot
Here’s a breakdown of irrigation costs based on square footage.
| Square Feet | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 1,000 | $500 – $2,000 |
| 2,500 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| 5,000 | $1,900 – $3,500 |
| 10,000 | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| 20,000 | $3,500 – $6,500 |
| 45,000 | $6,000 – $10,000 |
Irrigation System Costs By Type
Different types of irrigation systems have various costs.
| Type | Average Cost Per Acre |
|---|---|
| In-ground / Underground | $6,000 – $10,000 |
| Drip Irrigation | $500 – $3,000 |
| Commercial / Farm | $1,000 – $7,000 |
In-ground & Underground Sprinkler System Cost
In-ground sprinkler systems are among the most common and cost between $6,000 and $10,000 per acre.
Automatic Sprinkler System Cost
Automatic systems offer convenience and can range in price depending on complexity and additional features.
Commercial vs. Residential Irrigation System Prices
Commercial irrigation systems generally cost more due to scale and regulatory requirements compared to residential systems.
Drip Irrigation System
Drip systems are more affordable, ranging from $500 to $3,000, and are ideal for specific plant areas or garden beds.
Above-ground Irrigation System Cost
Above-ground systems have varied prices based on the type and functionality.
| Sprinkler Type | Average Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oscillating | $8 – $40 | A wide tube shoots a fan of water with an adjustable width and arc. |
| Spot/stationary | $4 – $12 | Shoots water in a round or square pattern. Only suited for small lawns. |
| Impulse/impact | $6 – $40 | Shoots a horizontal spray that rotates around the center in an adjustable arc. |
| Spike | $6 – $25 | Pushes into the ground using a spike. Available in a variety of nozzles. |
| Rotating/whirling | $6 – $25 | Shoots a horizontal spray that rotates around the center but has less reach than an impact sprinkler. |
| Tripod | $30 – $70 | A height-adjustable, elevated sprinkler on a tripod base. |
| Traveling | $50 – $70 | Rolls across the lawn, following the path of a hose while spraying from two rotating arms. |
| Raised/telescoping | $20 – $30 | Pushes into the ground using a spike and extends up to 40″ high to water tall shrubs and plantings. |
| Misting | $2 – $12 | Releases a light mist to water delicate plants and flowers without damage. |
Cost Factors To Install A New Irrigation System
Several factors can influence the total installation costs.
Sprinkler System Permit
Permits may be required for installing a new sprinkler system and can impact overall costs.
Cost To Add A Sprinkler Zone
Adding zones to an existing system can range from $500 to $1,000 per zone.
Cost To Replace Irrigation System
Replacing an old or damaged system depends on the scope of work and the system type.
Cost Of Irrigation Accessories
Accessories enhance the functionality and efficiency of your system.
| Accessory | Average Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Controller (standard) | $30 – $100 | Automates the watering of individual zones. |
| Controller (smart/wifi-enabled) | $60 – $300 | Uses data from rain sensors and local weather to improve watering efficiency and reduce energy costs. |
| Rain sensor | $20 – $90 | Detects rainfall and signals the controller to skip the next watering cycle. |
| Soil moisture sensor | $90 – $140 | Detects moisture in the ground and signals the controller to delay the next watering cycle when plants don’t need water. |
| Irrigation filter | $35 – $80 | Keeps sprinklers and tubing free of contaminants that decrease efficiency and reduce performance. |
| Rain barrel & diverter | $80 – $1,700 | Redirects water from rain gutters into a barrel for use on lawns, plants, and gardens. |
Costs To Install A Sprinkler System And Sod
If a sprinkler system installation is part of a larger landscaping project that includes laying sod, this will increase the overall costs.
Lawn And Landscaping Repair
Repairing any damage to lawns and landscaping during the installation process is another potential cost.
Sprinkler System Planning
Proper planning is crucial to ensure an efficient and cost-effective sprinkler system installation.
DIY Yard Sprinkler System Cost
For those considering a do-it-yourself approach, there are options available that could save money.
| Type | Coverage (Square Feet) | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 6-Head Sprinkler Kit | 1,000 – 3,000 | $130 – $260 |
| Custom Build* | More than 3,000 | $500 – $1,500 |
Is It Worth Installing A Sprinkler System?
Residential Sprinkler System Pros And Cons
Weighing the benefits and drawbacks is crucial before making a decision.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Convenience | High upfront cost |
| Consistent lawn hydration | Lawn damage during installation |
| Healthy and well-maintained plants | Requires annual maintenance |
| Increases property value by 7% to 15% | Complex repairs |
| Reduces water bills and water usage compared to manual watering | |
| Improves safety by removing hose trip hazards |
How Does A Sprinkler System Work?
A typical system uses underground pipes and valves controlled by timers that ensure scheduled watering of different zones.
Does A Sprinkler System Add Value To A Home?
A well-maintained irrigation system can increase property value by 7% to 15%.
When Is The Best Time To Install A Sprinkler System?
Best times are typically in spring or fall when the weather is mild, and there is an adequate water supply.
How Long Does It Take To Install A Sprinkler System?
Installation usually takes between one and two days, depending on the system’s complexity and the lawn’s size.
How Much To Maintain A Sprinkler System?
Annual maintenance costs can range from $50 to $250, ensuring the system runs efficiently and effectively.
How Much Does A Rain Bird Sprinkler System Cost?
Rain Bird systems typically range from $500 to $2,500, depending on the system’s features and size.
How Much Does A Fire-safety Sprinkler System Cost For A House?
Fire-safety sprinkler systems in homes can range from $1.50 to $5 per square foot installed.
How Much Water Does A Sprinkler System Use?
A sprinkler system can use 12 to 30 gallons of water per minute, depending on the type and efficiency of the system.
Getting Sprinkler System Installation Quotes
Questions To Ask
When seeking quotes from professionals, consider asking the following questions:
- What is included in the initial installation cost?
- Are any permits required, and will you handle them?
- How many zones does my lawn need?
- What type of system is best suited for my lawn?
- Do you offer maintenance services?
- What warranty or guarantees do you provide?
Gathering this information will help ensure a smooth and cost-effective installation process. If you are looking for the typical costs associated with repairing a sprinkler system, you can read our Sprinkler System Repair Cost Guide.
