Maintaining a lush and healthy lawn is unfortunately not an easy task. It requires proper irrigation, and a well-functioning sprinkler system plays a vital role in achieving this goal. That being said, it's also not as easy as simply watering your lawn all the time. If you're not careful, you actually may end up causing more harm than good. Here are some tips to get the best out of your sprinkler system:
1. Avoid over-irrigation
Over-watering is a common mistake that can lead to wasted water, higher water bills, and even harm to your plants and lawn. To prevent overwatering, ensure your sprinkler system doesn't run for too long. A good rule of thumb is to water your lawn for about 30 minutes, three times a week. Also, regularly check your sprinkler heads for damage or leaks. If you're running your sprinklers for a specific period of time, the last thing you want is a leak causing you to waste water and not give your lawn/plants what they are looking for.
Rain sensors can be a useful tool for homeowners and commercial property owners alike, as they will automatically shut off your sprinkler system if they detect rainfall. These sensors can be very helpful in ensuring your lawn and plants are not over-watered. If you don't have rain sensors, and don't plan to purchase any, just keep an eye on the weather and avoid running your sprinklers if you know you'll be getting a lot of rain.
2. Avoid under-irrigation
Under-watering is just as bad as over-watering, and it can result in dry and brown patches on your lawn. To prevent this, you obviously need to ensure your sprinkler system provides enough water to your lawn. As mentioned above, a good rule of thumb is to water your lawn for about 30 minutes, three times a week.
3. The timing of your watering matters
The time of day you choose to water your lawn can make a big difference in how effective your sprinkler system is. The best time to water your lawn is in the morning as it allows the water to soak into the soil before the heat of the day evaporates it. Watering in the evening is not recommended as it can lead to the growth of mold and mildew.
Another important factor to consider is the wind. Wind can cause water to evaporate quickly, thus reducing the effectiveness of your sprinkler system. It's best to water on days when the wind is calm or not present.
4. Ensure even coverage
Another common mistake is overwatering certain areas of your lawn while others receive inadequate water. This can be caused by uneven sprinkler coverage. To avoid this, adjust your sprinkler heads correctly to ensure that they cover your entire lawn evenly.
5. Make use of smart watering
A smart irrigation system can help you get the most out of your sprinkler system by adjusting watering times and durations based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels. This can help you save water and money while keeping your lawn healthy and green.
Smart watering systems can also be controlled remotely, allowing you to adjust your watering schedule from anywhere. This can be particularly useful when you're away from home and need to adjust your watering schedule.
6. Get expert assistance
To keep your sprinkler system in good condition, regular maintenance is necessary. At Transitions Outdoor Services, we offer a variety of services, including spring system start-up, fall system winterization, regularly scheduled maintenance, one-time service calls for immediate repairs, new system installation, additional zone installation, and "smart system" upgrades.
Our experienced and professional technicians can help you keep your sprinkler system in top condition, identifying potential problems before they become overwhelming. By maintaining your sprinkler system consistently, we can save you money and reduce overwatering.
Don't wait until your sprinkler system causes problems. Contact Transitions Outdoor Services today to schedule an appointment with our team of experts and get the most out of your sprinkler system.
