Dry Season leads to over-watering
Irrigation rebates help protect your lawn from damage and save money
Grass is crackling and the urge to soak the ground is strong. However, over-watering merely wastes water and encourages shallow root growth, which is not good for your lawn. Among the principal causes of over-irrigation are poorly maintained in-ground sprinkler systems, and systems that automatically turn on despite the presence of rain.
GRU is the first utility in the area to offer water customers in-ground irrigation system maintenance rebates ($50) as well as rebates for rain-activated shut-off devices ($25). Proper maintenance and the use of a rain sensor will benefit landscaping and lower both water use and bills. Irrigation systems should be inspected on an annual basis to ensure efficiency, prevent and repair leaks and breaks, and guard against dangerous backflow of untreated water into drinking water lines.
The St. Johns River Water Management District restricts irrigation between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and limits watering to no more than two days per week. Remember, irrigation at midday loses 60 to 65 percent of the water to evaporation. Additionally, GRU asks customers to voluntarily observe odd/even irrigation patterns, with odd-numbered addresses watering on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and even addresses on Thursdays and Sundays. These patterns have the added benefit of helping to maintain pressure to your water service.
Good irrigation practices can save water and benefit your lawn. Such as— only water when necessary. If the grass does not spring back when you step on it, then irrigate. Otherwise, it is best for both your lawn and the water supply to wait. Also, avoid sprinklers that spray a fine mist, as that increases evaporation. And, if you use a hand-held hose, make sure you use an automatic shut-off nozzle to prevent wasted water from running down the storm drain. Check out many more water saving tips for both inside and outside of the home.
