‘Fall Back’ and Adjust Irrigation Systems to Save Water During Cooler Months
November 01, 2013
The end of daylight saving time on Sunday offers residents a reminder to assess their outdoor watering needs and adjust…
The end of daylight saving time on Sunday offers residents a reminder to assess their outdoor watering needs and adjust their irrigation systems to reduce water waste. Plants simply don’t need as much water during cooler months – and they typically don’t need irrigation at all after heavy rains.
“This is a great time to make sure irrigation systems are working properly and delivering the right amount of water,” said Jeff Stephenson, a principal water resources specialist for the San Diego County Water Authority. “If we all make using water efficiently a norm in our lives, it will help future generations learn to use water responsibly."
Outdoor watering accounts for more than half of a typical household’s water use in California. Making seasonal adjustments to irrigation controllers can help reduce water waste and lead to healthier landscapes. Water-saving practices include turning off irrigation systems when rainstorms are predicted and leaving them off for at least a week after significant rainfall.
Using water efficiently indoors and outdoors is easier than ever thanks to online tools offered by the Water Authority. WaterSmartsd.org is filled with information about conservation incentives, and it includes tools and programs designed to make the most of the region’s limited water supplies.
The website includes a link to the Water Authority’s new digital flipbook “eGuide to a WaterSmart Lifestyle,” designed to inspire, educate and empower homeowners to make water-efficient choices in their homes and gardens. Everyone who subscribes to receive updates about new eGuide features and related events by November 30 will be entered into a drawing for a rain barrel valued at more than $150. Flipbook readers can register using the pop-up box when they open the eGuide, or they can sign up anytime by clicking the blue “subscribe” tab on the right side of each page.
In addition, a Water Calculator at WaterSmartsd.org/water-calculator estimates how much water residents use at home based on a series of questions about their water consumption indoors and outdoors. It also identifies specific areas for improving overall household water-use efficiency.