Did you set it and forget it? It’s time for a sprinkler system checkup

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Water Less banner with Azaleas

Water Less banner with Azaleas

Changing seasonal watering needs are focus of year-round Water Less campaign

PALATKA, Fla., March 11, 2021 — Spring is a great time to give your automatic sprinkler system a checkup. As warm temperatures return and spring planting begins, the St. Johns River Water Management District’s seasonal Water Less campaign message focuses on irrigation system maintenance with the question “Did you set it and forget it?”

“The Water Less campaign focuses on taking control of your sprinkler system this spring to ensure it is working efficiently, which conserves our water and saves you money on your water bills,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle. “When we adjust our clocks to reflect daylight saving time on March 14, it’s an ideal time to inspect your automatic sprinkler systems.”

More than half of all residential water is used outdoors for lawn and landscape irrigation. Studies have shown that up to half of that water can be saved. Through outreach and partnerships with water supply utilities, homeowners’ associations and local governments, the District’s year-long Water Less campaign focuses on water-conserving strategies to help curb outdoor water waste while supporting beautiful, vibrant landscapes.

If you irrigate your lawn and landscape, you can reduce the amount of water you use by with a well-designed irrigation system and regular maintenance. To make sure you don’t just set it and forget it, the District offers a few easy tips:

  • Know your watering days and ensure your system is set to follow watering restrictions, if you need to water at all.
  • Check your sprinkler system regularly to make sure is it operating properly.
    • Install the most efficient spray heads designed for different uses (turf grass, planting beds, etc.)
    • Fix broken or misdirected sprinkler heads and check that water is only spraying on the landscape.
    • Look for leaks and clogs.
  • Turn off your sprinkler system if there’s rain in the forecast.
  • Look into upgrading your sprinkler system with “smart” technology.
  • Install waterwise landscaping — right plant, right place minimizes water, fertilizer, pesticides and labor.

Visit WaterLessFlorida.com for more outdoor water saving ideas. Download “5 Easy Ways to Save Water Outdoors” here. Join the conversation on social media at #waterconservation #sjrwmd #savewater.