Why Now Is the Best Time to Upgrade Your Old Sprinkler System

McMillan Industries
Jan 22
2 min read

If your lawn is relying on an old sprinkler system that was “good enough” a decade ago, chances are it’s wasting water, missing spots and costing you money. With hotter, drier summers and rising water bills, now is the ideal time to upgrade – especially before the worst of the heat sets in.

Here is why giving your old system a makeover is such a smart move.

1. Save water (and your water bill)

Older sprinklers often use more water than necessary, with big droplets, uneven coverage and plenty of overspray onto paths and driveways. Modern nozzles and heads are designed to use water far more efficiently.

Upgrading can mean:

Better, more even coverage
Less misting and evaporation
Less runoff and pooling

Over a full summer, that can add up to real savings on your water bill.

2. Match today’s weather – not yesterday’s

We are seeing longer heatwaves and more extreme weather. Many older systems were never set up with these conditions in mind.

A modern controller lets you:

Adjust watering by season
Program different zones for sun and shade
Pause or reduce watering after rain

Some smart controllers can even respond to weather data and water restrictions, helping you stay compliant while keeping your lawn alive.

3. Fix dry patches and soggy spots

If you are forever dragging a hose to “top up” certain areas, that is a sign your system is not suited to your yard. Over time, gardens change – trees grow, new garden beds go in, and traffic patterns shift.

Upgrading allows you to:

Re-position and add sprinkler heads where they are really needed
Create new zones for problem areas
Add drip irrigation to garden beds and hedges

The result is a more even, healthier lawn and garden with fewer dead or boggy patches.

4. Reduce breakdowns and maintenance

Old valves, brittle pipes and worn heads are more likely to leak, crack and fail – usually right when you need them most. Replacing ageing components now reduces emergency callouts and surprise repairs in the peak of summer.

5. Get professional design from the start

A professionally designed system from Midwest Watering Systems takes into account pressure, flow, layout and plant needs. That means less guesswork, better performance and a system that will serve you well for years.

If your sprinklers are outdated, uneven or unreliable, now is the perfect time to upgrade – before the next heatwave hits. Your lawn (and your water bill) will thank you. 💧🌿