July is Smart Irrigation Month!
Your irrigation system:
Save water, save money and see better results
Automatic sprinklers offer convenience and control in protecting your landscape investment. Irrigation systems help you to enjoy your yard, and to keep it healthy and beautiful. However, most homeowners tend to overwater their lawn or waste water through inefficient habits. Adopting water-savvy habits is essential to maintaining and extending your community's water supply, especially during peak use.The key to efficient outdoor irrigation is applying just enough water and only when necessary. Water-wise habits will result in a healthier lawn and landscape, in addition to conserving water. Plus, reducing your consumption will help reduce your water bill.
The Irrigation Association named July Smart Irrigation Month to provide tips about smart practices and new technology. Continue reading to learn what you can do in July - and througout the year - to operate your system at peak efficiency.
Did you know that over half of household water use, on average, goes to maintaining yards and landscapes? That’s why improving outdoor watering efficiency by installing a “smart” sprinkler controller is one of the best and easiest ways for homeowners to reduce their overall water usage, save money and keep their yards healthy and beautiful throughout the year.
How “smart” sprinkler controllers help
reduce water usage
“Smart” sprinkler controllers reduce outdoor water use by monitoring and using information about site conditions (such as soil moisture, rain, wind, slope, soil, plant type, and more), and applying the right amount of water based on those factors—not too much and not too little—to maintain healthy growing conditions. For example:
- During hot weather, plants require more water than during cooler periods. “Smart” controllers adjust the amount of water applied accordingly.
- If significant rainfall occurs, rain sensors compensate by reducing the amount of water as appropriate.
- If you have a soil type that absorbs water very slowly or a property with steep slopes, “smart” controllers will use that information and apply less water, more frequently, to minimize run-off.
“Smart” sprinkler controller tips
Recommendations for getting the most out of your “smart” sprinkler controller:
Conduct a Sprinkler System Inspection: “Smart” controllers work properly only when the entire sprinkler system is working optimally. That’s why it’s important to conduct a full sprinkler system inspection, or audit, prior to installing a new “smart” controller. The system audit will check for leaks, malfunctioning hardware, water pressure, site coverage and uniformity, and other related issues that might impact the effectiveness of your entire system. Repairing these problems will ensure your “smart” controller is able to deliver the benefits promised.
Work with a Professional: “Smart” sprinkler controllers are generally only available through irrigation or landscape contractors. The Irrigation Association® has compiled a list of professionals who are certified to install “smart” irrigation controllers. To locate an Irrigation Association certified professional, or to confirm the status of any irrigation contractor in your area, please consult our list of Certified Professionals.
