Practical solutions for efficient water management

Problem

• Misting, fogging

Potential Causes

• High water pressure

Solution

• Pressure regulating devices maintain the optimal water pressure to sprinklers, which will minimize misting and fogging. This can result in over 50% water savings.

Problem

• Water runoff and erosion

Potential Causes

• Slopes, Clay soil, Over-spray, Too much water applied too quickly

Solution

• Controllers with multiple start times or Cycle + Soak – enable you to water in multiple, yet shorter cycles to allow for better absorption.
• High efficiency nozzles with matched precipitation rates provide better distribution of water and can reduce usage by up to 30%.
• Low-volume drip irrigation applies water slowly and more directly to plants’ roots.
• Check valves prevent drainage at lower elevations, which eliminates flooding and erosion.

Problem

• Over-watering due to weather changes

Potential Causes

• Controllers are rarely adjusted to accommodate for weather changes

Solution

• Automatic shut-off devices temporarily suspend irrigation when sufficient moisture is detected or if it is raining, resulting in 15-20% water savings.
• Many irrigation controllers contain features that enable users to easily make changes to their systems (to accommodate for weather changes) without disrupting predetermined settings.

Problem

• Over-watering due to different types of plants

Potential Causes

• Different plants have different watering needs

Solution

• Plant your garden in zones and use a controller with multiple independent programs. This will provide you with the flexibility to adjust your watering schedule per the needs of each zone.