Avoiding Sprinkler Runoff

Having a lawn sprinkler system is supposed to save you time and money while assuring your lawn it will get the proper amount of needed water.

These positives can be negated if there is significant water runoff from the sprinkler system. You’ll be paying more on your water bill, water will be wasted and your lawn will miss out on the proper amount of water.

If you suspect there is some water runoff from the system, the first thing you want to do is identify the cause. It’s a good idea to regularly check your lawn irrigation system. If you are using a timer with your sprinkler system, you may have it set up to deliver water during the pre-dawn hours. If this is the case, check your yard and property during the morning hours. You want to look for puddles of water in certain areas and excess water on the driveway and/or sidewalk. If you think the water is being directed to these paved areas, it’s time to redirect the sprinkler heads in these watering zones.

Next, check the lawn sprinkler system itself. Go around to each sprinkler system zone and check for loose or broken sprinkler heads. Remember,sprinkler nozzles are replaceable and the short-term cost will pay off in the long run.

Examine areas where there are connections. This means the areas where the sprinkler heads connect to hoses or pipes. If you see pools of water accumulating in these areas, this could be signs of a leak. Even a slow leak will cost you money over time.

 If you still think there might be a runoff or leak somewhere, you can always call in a professional to do a lawn irrigation system audit.

Also, know your soil and your seasons and adjust watering schedules when seasons change.