An automatic sprinkler system adds a level of convenience that most everyone can praise—it saves time you would otherwise spend watering by hand. In addition, it can save water and lower your water bill. But have you thought about the things you might be doing that cause water waste? Now is the time to find out from a professional sprinkler contractor in Burlington County, NJ about watering habits that contribute to outdoor water waste:
- You don’t use a timer: Whether automated or controlled manually, the use of a timer is essential for water conservation and to avoid overwatering. With a timer, creating an efficient watering schedule for certain times and days of the week is a cinch. Don’t have an in-ground sprinkler system with a built-in timer? Use your cell phone or watch timer, something that will alert you without fail when the watering time is up.
- Damage goes unfixed: Broken or poorly positioned sprinkler heads or damaged piping are likely to spray water all over areas that don’t need watering—like sidewalks, driveways and sides of buildings. This is a complete waste of water, which, in some counties, can get you a water district fine. Call to request a sprinkler contractor in Burlington County, NJ who can come out and make repairs.
- Water-stopping barriers are not installed: Even though you’ve installed a premium sprinkler setup, there may be other related things you’re not doing that you should consider. Down slopping grassy areas are more susceptible to water waste, as compared to flat lawns, because water is quick to run off. Sprinkler water cascading over backyard walkways and front yard sideways is frowned upon. Try installing a plastic landscape lawn edger that goes deep into the soil, or use a garden flood barrier to act as a barricade to keep most of the water from making a break for it.
- You water when it’s windy: Since water is likely to just blow all over and miss the grass, it’s best to avoid watering altogether on windy days. Turn off your automated home sprinkler timer before heading out for work and be vigilant of your business building’s sprinkler settings—if you have control over it. Otherwise, the water you think is hydrating your lawn will simply be wasted on concrete or dissipate in the whipping winds.
- You’re not using an automatic shutoff device: Meanwhile, there are plants that benefit from hand watering, as opposed to a sprinkler or other type of irrigation system. When using a nozzle attachment with a hose, all the watering responsible is left in your hands. This is why you should do things right—save water by utilizing a nozzle with an automatic shutoff device to make sure it does not get left on after watering.
While summer is prime time for sprinkler use, you’ll still need to water during other seasons from time to time to keep your lawn and landscape healthy. Contact Star Sprinkler Systems Inc. to get a service quote or to speak with a qualified professional sprinkler contractor in Burlington County, NJ.