Drip irrigation is the most efficient method of irrigating. While sprinkler systems are around 75-85% efficient, These irrigation systems typically are 90% or higher. What that means is much less wasted water!
For this reason drip irrigation is the preferred method of automatic watering systems Australia, as we are one of the driest continents, and water restrictions are a common part of our weather patterns.
Drip has other benefits. It uses the least amount of water if set up correctly and reduces disease problems associated with high levels of moisture on some plants.
It works by applying water slowly, directly to the soil. The high efficiency of drip irrigation results from two primary factors. The first is that the water soaks into the soil before it can evaporate or run off. The second is that the water is only applied where it is needed, (at the plant’s roots) rather than sprayed everywhere.