Water-Efficient Sprinkler Systems

Design and Installation

Choose the appropriate type of sprinkler.
For grass, use low-volume, low-angle sprinklers and select heads that fit the size and shape of areas to be watered. Drip, spray or bubbler emitters are the best methods for watering trees, shrubs, flowers and ground covers.
Design zones to address various water needs.
Keep turf areas and shrub beds on different zones since they require different amounts of water.
Follow backflow prevention requirements.
Install a rain shut-off device to prevent watering during and after rain.
Hire a sprinkler contractor certified by the Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado.
Select a controller with these features:
- at least two separate programs
- multiple start times per program
- rain sensor bypass
- interval watering days and individual watering days
- water budgeting from 20 - 200%
- recharging circuit to hold program
- precise station timing in one-minute increments

Report a Problem

Repeat short cycles to allow water to soak in areas where water runs off quickly.
Water late evening or early morning every three days.
Reduce the system operating pressure if you see a fine mist or fog.
Adjust sprinkler heads if they create runoff on walks or driveways.
Angle heads as low as possible to limit evaporation.

Routinely check for damaged sprinkler heads, inadequate coverage, clogged nozzles and line leaks.
Reset the watering schedule at least once a month. Use the daily Lawn Watering Guide in the Coloradoan newspaper as a guide to how much to water. Or change the schedule based on the historic weekly watering needs for Kentucky Bluegrass.
Learn more about healthy lawn maintenance.