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3 Costly Irrigation Errors and How To Avoid Them

Automatic irrigation systems use an average of 2,000 gallons of water each time they run. If the controller isn’t properly programmed, it will result in a lot of wasted water — and a very high water bill.

Automatic irrigation systems are often the biggest water user of your home, using an average of 2,000 gallons of water each time they run.

If you don’t stay on top of the irrigation controller settings, it will result in a lot of wasted water and high water bills.

After thousands of consultations with homeowners, we’ve discovered three common mistakes people make when programming their controller. All irrigation controllers, even smart controllers, have similar features.

Mistake #1- Multiple Programs

Controllers have the option for multiple programs, such as A, B and C. If they are all programmed, they will ALL run regardless of which program is showing on the display. Make sure to erase all programs you’re not using.

Mistake #2 – Multiple Start Times

Controllers have multiple start times, but most homeowners only need one. Erase all other start times.

Mistake #3 – Multiple Days

A once-a-week deep watering is all that’s necessary. Remember, if you add another day, you double your water use — and your water bill.

Just remember 1-1-1: One program, one start time and one day. That’s all you need. When in doubt, just turn it off and run it manually.

Picture of Heather Ginsburg
Heather Ginsburg
Heather is a Texas tradeswoman through and through! With three state water licenses under her belt, she brings a unique perspective, background and expertise to the SAWS Education team. Heather’s deep understanding of and passion for sharing water knowledge makes her perfectly suited for coordinating and leading SAWS’ education tours. Prior to joining the SAWS family, Heather worked in the private sector as a landscape designer where she spent countless hours helping homeowners create beautiful, water-saving landscapes. Heather, along with her husband Brett and their two children, all strive daily to be kind humans who give back to Mother Earth.
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