Smart Irrigation – Maintaining Your Sprinkler System
The Irrigation Association has named July Smart Irrigation Month. It is important for all of us to take steps to converse our water resources. One way to help conserve water is to regularly maintain your sprinkler system.
Take the following steps to make sure your system is running as efficiently as possible:
Check the water pressure. High water pressure can cause many serious problems for your system including leaks, breaks, wasted water, and a higher water bill.
Inspect your system monthly for pipe leaks or breaks and clogged, broken, or leaky sprinkler heads.
If you don’t have one already, install a rain sensor. This sensor will ensure your system does not run and waste water if we have had a significant amount of rain.
Trim any large plants that are keeping the water from distributing evenly. Also make adjustments to sprinkler heads to avoid watering patios, sidewalks, and other hardscape areas.
Make sure your system is equipped with ‘smart’ or ‘green’ technology. Like a rain sensor, it will make sure your system doesn’t turn on when it is not needed. These controllers can measure the moisture in the soil and adjust your system’s schedule to properly water your lawn and landscape.
The final step to take is to make sure your system and the backflow preventer are tested every year. Proper Spring Start-Ups and Winterizations will also make your system more efficient and last longer. Do your part to conserve water – every drop counts!
