An automatic sprinkler system can help you grow a lush lawn and beautiful garden while simultaneously conserving water and saving money. However, the system requires occasional attention to maintain a healthy lawn. Follow these sprinkler system maintenance tips to guarantee your yard flourishes all summer long.

Do:

Utilize the system’s timers and sensors.

Many sprinkler systems include timers to help you manage how long they stay on. This way, you do not have to worry about forgetting to turn your sprinklers on or off and risking a brown lawn or wasted water. If your system does not include a built-in timer, contact a sprinkler specialist to install one.

Sprinklers with rain sensors can also help you conserve water and money. If rain sufficiently waters your lawn, the system will turn off to prevent unnecessary watering. If you do not have sensors, check the forecast and turn the system off when you see rain in the near future.

Water early in the morning. 

Set your timers to water the lawn sometime between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. Waiting until the afternoon can limit the amount of water absorbed into the soil, as the wind and sun can evaporate the water before it sinks in. Watering at night can cause mold, mildew, and fungus to grow in the cool, damp night air.

Don’t:

Water outside the perimeter. 

If your sprinklers overshoot and spray the surrounding pavement, it can waste many gallons of water per month. Check that your sprinklers target only the intended areas.

Inspect your system at least once a month to ensure the sprinkler heads still aim in the right direction and cover only the lawn and garden you wish to water.

Overwater your lawn.

Most lawns only require about an inch to an inch and a half of water per week in the summer. It is better to give your lawn a long, deep soak once a week than to water a little bit here and there throughout the week. These longer soaks will promote your lawn’s root growth, preventing the topsoil from drying out and the grass from browning.

Ask your sprinkler system experts how much water your system creates and then gauge how long you should set the timer for.

 

For help repairing sprinkler heads or learning to use the system’s timers and sensors, contact Whittemore Sprinkler Company. This family-owned company in Lincoln, NE, and has dedicated the last 56 years to professionally servicing sprinkler systems throughout the area. Call (402) 476-8552 to ask a knowledgeable representative your lawn care questions or check out their website for more information.