Many landscaping contractors use irrigation design software to save time and make accurate estimates. But there’s no one-size-fits-all answer as to which design/install software is best for a given contractor. It all comes down to what he or she wants the software to do for them, according to the editors of Lawn & Landscape magazine.
A seasoned farmer may want software to store information about center pivots and calculate energy expenses; a contractor focusing on residential landscapes might choose to focus on irrigation system design and drawing. Some design/install programs can count irrigation parts, creating a list that eliminates estimating errors and helps reduce materials waste on projects. Others offer a 3D model that can be used to evaluate the actual performance of an irrigation system. Still others have automated functions that simplify a contractor’s workflow and help speed up the process of producing a solution.
Contractors can customize a software program by setting its symbol libraries, layer and line colors, fonts, plotting preferences, flow and pressure calculation options, label styles, schematic irrigation types, schedule layout and pipe defaults, as well as the size of symbols. The program can also automatically layout the entire system, including all components and equipment, as well as produce an estimate of head counts and total piping needed.
Another benefit of the software is its ability to handle complex hydraulic calculations, which can take into account factors such as altitude changes, piping length and friction losses. This can prevent problems such as low water pressure or uneven distribution of water. Some programs also offer a plant database with information on thousands of different species and their water requirements, which can help with design decisions.
Irrigation software can be used to design landscape, garden, residential, golf course, park, turf and other green industry projects for both new and existing systems. It can analyze the soil, climate and other parameters that influence water use and calculate water distribution, as well as create detailed project specifications and cost estimates. The program can also be used for water audits and to manage an irrigation system.
IRRICAD is an established irrigation design software package that has been in the market for decades and continues to evolve. It can be used to design all types of pressurized irrigation systems and features a large database with various manufacturers’ products that is fully customizable.
It can also perform automatic hydraulic analysis and modeling with high efficiency, allowing for faster design and a more comprehensive understanding of the sprinkler system in operation. Moreover, it has a user-friendly interface that encourages streamlined workflow and boosts productivity. The software can even support GIS integration and enables seamless collaboration with other designers, as it supports numerous CAD file formats. Lastly, it can quickly produce a detailed parts list for each individual zone. This can help avoid overbuying and reduce the need for future material orders. It can also help identify zones that need to be modified for more efficient water usage.