Drip irrigation systems are no longer installed only in warmer climates. Both Rain Bird and Netafim have developed irrigation systems suitable for all climates.
Pressure Compensating Drip Emitters: Pressure compensating drip emitters are designed to discharge water at a very uniform rate under a wide range of water pressures. Pressure compensating emitters are available in a variety of flow rates, including .5 GPH, 1,2, 3 and 4 GPH. PC drippers will discharge the same flow under a pressure range of 10 to 45 PSI. PC drip emitters have a labyrinth water passage with a diaphragm. As pressure rises the diaphragm restricts the water passage and slows the water velocity allowing the emitters along the laterals to deliver equal amounts of water. This provides uniformity, and allows a longer run to accommodate almost any topography.
Micro-Sprinklers: Unlike drippers, micro sprinklers throw the water over a wider area, when low volume overhead irrigation is desired. They are designed for areas where drippers are not practical, such as ground cover, trees, flower beds and hillsides. A spinner type micro sprinkler can throw the water over an area of 10 to 30' in a full circle, with a flow rate range of 10 to 35 GPH. Micro sprinklers have small sized droplets and good uniformity of coverage. Micro sprinklers have a low precipitation rate allowing longer watering time with less runoff.