Simple Sprinkler Maintenance Tips That Help Conserve Water

Water is one of the earth’s most precious resources, but that doesn’t seem to stop people from wasting it. Although an overwhelming 71 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, almost 97 percent of this is salt water held in the oceans. Salt water can’t be consumed by humans or animals for hydration, and it certainly can’t be sprayed on your lawn. Lawn maintenance makes up approximately 30 percent of the average American household’s water usage, and sadly, “some experts estimate that as much as 50 percent of water used for irrigation is wasted due to evaporation, wind, or runoff caused by inefficient irrigation methods and systems,” according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

The smart watering and the sprinkler maintenance tips below can help you waste (and spend!) less water each year.

Clean Nozzles And Heads

Over time, sprinkler heads and nozzles can become clogged with dirt and grass clippings. If you’ve got a buried sprinklers system, gravel, salt, and other substances kicked up during the winter can also cause problems. Use a piece of stiff wire, like a paperclip, to remove debris from the sprinkler head. In extreme cases, you can also remove, soak, and scrub the nozzle.

Evaluate The Spray Zone

After following the proper steps to turn your sprinkler system on in the spring, take a moment to watch where the water is falling in each of your spray zones. Any sprinklers that are depositing water onto sidewalks, driveways, or the street should be adjusted immediately to prevent waste.

Install A Rain Sensor

It’s always funny to see someone’s sprinklers come on in the middle of a rain storm. Mother Nature is trying to do you a favor! Avoid this wasteful overlap by installing a rain sensor that will automatically shut sprinklers off when rainfall reaches a pre-set amount.

Don’t have time? Contact the lawn maintenance experts at Impeccable Landscapes to take care of your sprinkler systems on your behalf!