Why S. A. Rainmaker?
S. A. Rainmaker is a company that is devoted to customer satisfaction, continually striving to meet all of your needs. Having over 100 years of combined experience in our industry and installing quality products that we stand behind.
How dependable are automatic sprinkler timers?
Today's technology has brought more sophisticated controllers to the industry than ever. Most controllers come with a battery backup and pre-programmed default settings. These timers will not leave you high and dry.
How much maintenance will be involved in caring for my sprinkler system?
We recommend that you check the sprinkler system for proper operation at least twice a year. We like to visit customers at least once a year. Texas A&M conducted a study revealing an average life span of 10 years for a sprinkler system. The very first sprinkler system installed by William Bedford is 27 years old and still works like a charm.
Where can I get more information on sprinkler parts?
S. A. Rainmaker's suppliers offer a wealth of information on all the parts we use for your sprinkler installation and repair.
Conbraco product literature.
Febco product brochures and flyers.
Hunter product literature.
Irritrol instruction manuals and product literature.
KRain product literature.
Rainbird ineractive guide on how to set your timer.
Rainbird instruction manuals on your timer.
Rainbird instruction manuals on your rotar heads.
Rainbird instruction manuals on your spray heads.
Rainbird instruction manuals on your station valves.
Rainbird - Water Conservation and Yard Care Pod Cast.
Toro Operator's Manual request form.
Watts product literature.
When should I water my lawn?
S. A. Rainmaker recommends watering in the early morning hours and observing your water purveyor's guideline's.
BexarMet Water District
San Antonio Water System
How much water does my lawn need?
Its best to water your lawn thoroughly each time, to encourage deep root growth. Don't forget to factor in any rainfall. Upon advice of the Master Gardner with the Bexar County Agricultrual Extension Serivce, the only grass variety that will perish completely without precipitation, is St. Augustine. Buffalo, Bermuda, and Zoysia grass types will simply go dormant and turn brown without precipitation. The Master Gardner recommends a precipitation rate ranging from 1" - 1 1/2" per week, depending on soil conditions, to keep all grass varieties vibrant and green.
An S. A. Rainmaker irrigation system will automatically water your yard efficiently, conserve water, and save money. Contact us for an installation estimate and start saving water and money today!
How can I determine my lawn sprinkler's water usage?
The average system uses approximately 15 - 16 gallons per minute, per station.
Here is an easy formula to help you calculate the approximate amount of water you are using each month.
If your system has six stations, you water two times per week, and each station is set to run for 15 minutes.
Number of Minutes x Number of Stations = Total Minutes
Total Minutes x 16 Gallons per minute = Total gallons used per watering day.
Total gallons per day x Number of days per month you water = Total gallons of water used per month.
Therefore...
15 Minutes x 6 Stations = 90 Total Minutes.
90 Total Minutes x 16 Gallons per minute = 1,920 Total gallons used per watering day.
1,440 Gallons per day x 8 Days per month = 11,520 Total gallons of water used per month.
General Troubleshooting
I. Is your controller operating?
A.If there is no display then it is not getting power.
1.Check the outlet with something small like a hair dyer.
2.If the outlet has no power:
a.Check to see of your breaker has tripped to 'off'.
b.Reset your breaker and then check the outlet once more.
1.If the outlet has power and there is still no display, call our office for service.
2.If the outlet has no power, please call a professional electrician.
II. Is your system being supplied with water?
A.Check your backflow device.
1. The backflow device is the main cut-off valve for your sprinkler system.
2. Every S. A. Rainmaker lawn sprinkler system is installed with a backflow device, as required by state and city ordinances.
B.Locating your backflow device.
1. If S. A. Rainmaker installed your system the backflow should be within a few feet of your main water meter.
2. The water meter is generally oval in shape and has a heavy metal lid.
3. Your backflow will be rectangular in shape and have a green non-metallic lid.
a.The following image is an example to assist you in locating your backflow.
b.Keep in mind every yard is unique and the image provided is merely an example of a typical installation.
c.If your backflow has been covered with grass or landscaping it may not be visible.
1.Keep in mind, if the backflow is covered it is highly unlikely that you'll find the valve has been turned off.
2.Using a screwdriver gently probe the soil until you locate the buried valve box.
3.Once you've located it you'll have to uncover the area to remove the lid and check the handle positions.
4.It is handy to note that this can serve as an emergency cut-off should the need arise and will not hinder the main water supply inside your home.
Notes:
If you are unable to turn your sprinkler system on after checking these items please contact our office to arrange for service.
