5 Cost-Effective Ways to Irrigate

5 Cost-Effective Ways to Irrigate

Installing an automatic sprinkler irrigation system is a great idea for a lot of reasons. They’re convenient, allow for more even watering, and can waste less water than manual methods. 

However, even after upgrading to a more efficient system, there are many other ways you can waste water without knowing. Let’s take a look at five different tips and tricks you can follow to save money on irrigation while ensuring your landscaping receives the care it needs to thrive.

Water During the Right Time of Day

Watering at the right time of day can help you conserve water and save money on irrigation — but when is that? Ideally, you’ll want to have your sprinklers run during the morning hours.

When the sun rises high in the afternoon, there’s a higher chance that the water will evaporate before it is absorbed by the plants’ roots. As such, scheduling your sprinkler systems for early morning can help you greatly reduce water waste caused by evaporation during hotter hours.

Install a Rain Sensor

Adding a rain sensor to your irrigation system is another practical way to avoid wasting water. These sensors automatically shut off your system during rainfall, preventing unnecessary water usage.

Pairing a rain sensor with soil moisture sensors can create an even more efficient irrigation system by tailoring your water output to the needs of the soil. With smart controllers, you can further fine-tune your irrigation equipment and make your sprinkler heads operate only when necessary.

Keep Your Irrigation System Unobstructed

Keeping your irrigation system unobstructed is crucial to avoid water waste. If sprinkler heads are blocked by debris or overgrown plants, they will not distribute water evenly across your irrigated land, resulting in both dry patches and oversaturated areas. 

This means that you should take care to trim your grass and plants properly so that they don’t cover your sprinklers. It’s worth noting that some advanced systems, like smart irrigation systems, come with monitoring capabilities that notify you of any issues.

Find Plants That Resist Drought

One way you can reduce your water consumption is by choosing drought-resistant plants. These plants require less frequent watering, allowing you to rely less on irrigation systems and further cut costs. 

While traditional irrigation methods often flood fields to keep plants hydrated, drought-resistant plants thrive with minimal water, making them a great option for water conservation. By integrating them into your landscaping, you can save money and reduce strain on your sprinkler system.

Schedule Routine Inspections and Maintenance

Regular inspections and maintenance of your irrigation equipment are vital for long-term savings. Checking for leaks, cleaning sprinkler heads, and adjusting soil moisture sensors ensures your system operates efficiently. 

Scheduling maintenance around seasonal changes, such as periods of heavy rainfall or dry spells, is a good idea, as it can help you better match your water usage with the needs of your plants. This proactive approach helps reduce water waste, lowers water bills, and extends the lifespan of your irrigation system!

Keep Your Irrigation System in Top Form With Brookhaven Irrigation

At Brookhaven Irrigation, we have experience installing efficient irrigation systems on properties around Long Island and will be happy to assist you as well. In addition to installation, we also offer winterization, repairs, and maintenance so that your irrigation system can remain in top shape. Get in touch with us today for further information and to schedule a service for your landscaping.