Why Does My Irrigation System Use So Much Water?
If you have a lawn irrigation system, you might be wondering how much water it uses and how you can reduce your water bill. Lawn irrigation is a major use of water in the United States, accounting for 42 percent of the nation's total freshwater withdrawals in 2015. Irrigation is essential for keeping your lawn green and healthy, especially in areas where rainfall is irregular or dry times are expected. However, improper watering practices not only negatively affect your lawn care results, but contribute to a large percentage of water waste.
How Much Water Does Your Irrigation System Use?
The amount of water your irrigation system uses depends on several factors, such as the type of system, the number of stations or zones, the duration and frequency of watering, the size and shape of your lawn, the type of grass and plants, the soil type and condition, the weather and climate, and the water pressure and flow rate.
The most accurate way to measure how much water your irrigation system uses is to install a water meter on your irrigation line or use a smart controller that tracks water usage and adjusts watering schedules based on weather data and soil moisture sensors. (Fun fact: DreamLawn includes a Smart Controller with our Deluxe Irrigation Program!)
If you don’t have a WiFi Controller but would like to find an approximate amount for your system, it just takes a little math. To do this, multiply the number of minutes by the number of stations or zones, and then multiply that by the gallons per minute (GPM) of your system. For example, if you have a pop-up station that uses 16 GPM and you water for 15 minutes per station for four stations, you are using 960 gallons per watering cycle. If you do this three times a week, you are using 11,520 gallons per month.
How Can DreamLawn Reduce Your Water Usage?
There are many ways to reduce your water usage and save money on your water bill while still maintaining a healthy lawn. Here are some tips to help you conserve water and improve your irrigation efficiency:
Choose drought-tolerant grasses and plants that require less water and can withstand dry conditions. For example, Bermuda grass, buffalo grass, zoysia grass, lavender, rosemary, sage, and succulents are some low-water options for your lawn and garden.
Adjust your watering schedule according to the season, weather, and plant needs. Water less frequently and deeply in cooler months and more frequently and lightly in hotter months. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid evaporation and wind interference. Water only when your plants show signs of stress or wilting, not on a fixed schedule.
Use efficient irrigation systems and methods that deliver water directly to the root zone and minimize runoff and evaporation. For example, drip irrigation, soaker hoses, micro-sprinklers, bubblers, and low-angle spray heads are some efficient options for your lawn and garden. Avoid using sprinklers that spray water high into the air or over sidewalks, driveways, or other hard surfaces.
Check your irrigation system regularly for leaks, clogs, broken or misaligned heads, pressure problems, or other issues that can waste water. Repair any problems as soon as possible and replace any worn-out or outdated parts. Perform routine maintenance on your irrigation system at least once a year or hire a professional to do it for you.
Install a rain sensor, soil moisture sensor, or smart controller on your irrigation system that automatically shuts off or adjusts watering based on rainfall or soil moisture levels. These devices can help you avoid overwatering or under-watering your lawn and save up to 50 percent of water compared to manual scheduling.
Need Help with your irrigation efficiencies? Partner with a DreamLawn Irrigation Coach!
Use mulch around your plants to retain soil moisture, reduce evaporation, prevent weeds, moderate soil temperature, and improve soil quality. Mulch can be organic (such as wood chips, bark, straw, leaves, grass clippings) or inorganic (such as gravel, rocks, pebbles). Apply a layer of 2 to 4 inches of mulch around your plants but leave some space around the stems or trunks to avoid rotting.
Practice good lawn care practices that promote healthy roots and reduce water needs. For example, mow your grass at the recommended height (usually 2 to 3 inches) and leave the clippings on the lawn to act as natural fertilizer and mulch. Aerate your soil once a year to improve water infiltration and root growth. Fertilize your lawn only when needed.
For your own personal irrigation system needs visit call us today!
