In this drought, we’ve been asked to conserve more water. That’s challenging for desert residents who use nearly 80% of their water outdoors.
Over watering, inefficient sprinklers and old irrigation systems are among the biggest water wasters. Here are ways to improve your outdoor water efficiency:
Tune up your irrigation system
Adjust sprinklers to prevent overspray and runoff. Check your irrigation equipment to reduce excessive water use and prevent leaks.
- Replace broken sprinkler heads that create geysers or floods.
- Replace faulty irrigation valves that prevent the system from shutting off.
- Replace cracked irrigation pipes that cause leaks.
- Replace sprinklers with water-saving rotary nozzles.
Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) customers may be eligible for rebates for high-efficiency rotary nozzles.
Make sure sprinklers turn off after their scheduled time. If water runs off before the cycle finishes, split the cycle time into two to four cycles at least an hour apart to allow water to soak in.
Install a water-efficient drip irrigation system
Drip irrigation systems significantly reduce water use. They are efficient because water soaks into soil before it can evaporate or run off.
Check the watering schedule
Water at night to minimize water loss to evaporation. Adjust the irrigation schedule to reflect seasonal changes. For help on how much water to use on trees, grass and shrubs (preferably drought tolerant), check the Watering Guide at CVWD.org/ Conservation.
Install a smart irrigation controller
Replace your old device with a weather-based smart controller that will automatically adjust your watering needs and save up to 30% of water usage.
CVWD residential customers can apply for a free smart controller. HOA and commercial customers can receive a refund of 75% of the controller cost, up to $10,000 per project.
See CVWD.org/rebates for more information.
