Summer Irrigation Tips

It’s hard to believe that we haven’t had to rely much on our sprinkler systems this year. Finally, with temps climbing here in Northern Colorado, it’s time to take a closer look at your irrigation system to make sure it is functioning in the most efficient manner.

Here are some helpful tips. If you notice any of these issues, give us a call and we will be happy to troubleshoot and take care of the problem:

  • Make sure your timer is functioning properly and check watering times so you aren’t overwatering certain sections and under-watering others. As a good guide, if you have a sprinkler head that that rotates back and forth, a twenty minute cycle is ideal. Whereas heads that pop up and spray only one area need to be shorter. Set those zones for eight-ten minutes.
  • It may sound silly, but we’ve all driven around town and received a shower when someone’s sprinkler head is watering the sidewalk or street. Turn everything on and double check you are set up for proper coverage.
  • While the system is running, examine any broken or clogged heads. Clean them and out and replace for optimal watering.
  • Watch for perennials and shrubs that have overgrown their boundaries and are starting to block the spray pattern of your sprinkler heads.  Prune as needed.
  • Do you notice extra thatch surrounding heads? If so, the height of the heads may need to be adjusted so they fully cover the intended area.
  • Are there any areas of your yard where water is pooling up? This may indicate a broken line underground. Discontinue watering this section until it is resolved.
  • If certain zones will not turn on, it may be an electrical problem. We will send out one of our experienced irrigation technicians to take care of it.
  • Walk your shrub beds and watch for plants that are stressed.  If you see any check the drip in that area to make sure it is functioning properly by getting down and actually making sure the emitter is dripping.
  • Note any heads that need to be replaced. Regular irrigation system maintenance will save you money in the long run because the system will function properly.
  • Smart controllers are becoming popular with technology advances. Imagine your system understanding weather predictions and modifying your watering scheduled accordingly.

Hopefully these tips will help keep your lawn and landscape in excellent shape as we enter late-summer heat.