How is the MCSIII better than putting a soaker hose around my house? A common soaker hose works differently than the professional drip line that is included in the MCSIII. Soaker hoses “sweat” water, this means the amount of water that is emitted and the spacing of where the water is released is not regulated and can be inefficient, ineffective, and expensive for foundation watering. The MCSIII is designed to emit a precise amount of water every four feet at low pressure. This allows for a shorter watering time and virtually no run off creating optimal and even moisture. Additionally, soaker hose is not resistant to UV rays which causes decay over time, unlike the drip line.
How much will this increase my water bill? Not much. The system emits drops of water for short intervals of time (approximately 10 minutes long), 3 to 4 times a day. It costs roughly 14 cents a day - or around $50 a year - to run the system constantly.
Shouldn’t the system be installed underground? Not necessarily. New evidence shows that a properly designed system, with the appropriate tubing, installed on top of the ground can be more effective than a below ground system. Running the MCSIII above ground imitates a slow and constant rainfall and allows the soil to be restored to a more natural state.
Will this offer the same results as piers or piles? Soil moisture control and traditional repair methods, such as piers and piles, are two schools of thought – Methodology - How Foundation Moisture Control Works (See Blog entry for more details). Piers and piles are used to literally lift a home to create levelness. When installed properly, piers or piles can be effective for a period of time in a select area. However, this repair method offers no continued maintenance, and can be very costly and invasive.
Soil moisture control is based upon creating even moisture levels in the exposed soil around your home's foundation, you in essence "float" your foundation on the soil it is built upon - restoring places of unevenness and preventing settlement during times of drought. A properly design system can offer significant results continually over a long period of time.
Can I turn the system off? Yes. However, RainDrop recommends that the system be left on at all times to ensure optimal and even moisture, but realizes there may be unforeseen events. The system timer is equipped with an easy ON/OFF button.
Should I leave the system on year round? Yes. Creating consistent moisture levels during all seasons is important to the success of the system. RainDrop will recommend a seasonal schedule for your location. In the event of extreme winter weather, the Instruction Guide includes recommendations for preserving the system.
How soon will I see results? As soon as the system is in place, the soil immediately begins the rehydration process. The slow drip of the MCSIII allows the soil to intake more water than if you were flooding the surface. Results will vary due to your precise location, however the average customer begins to see results in 21 days.
