My sprinkler system is using too much water

Excessive use of water, or large jumps from your normal usage can sometimes be an indication of irrigation problems. Over-watering, inappropriate scheduling, malfunctioning equipment and broken water lines can all lead to an unnecessary overuse of water.

However, in many cases it can be easy to blame the sprinkler system when another water usage problem may exist. Here is a simple check list to help determine if the sprinkler system may be the culprit:

Check the Watering Program in the Irrigation Controller Was the program set-up correctly? Has someone re-adjusted the watering schedule? (With some controllers extended-watering cycles designed for drip irrigation, it is possible to water one zone for up to 10 hours.)

Walk Around the Yard
Do you find "wet spots" where water is collecting? Do you see signs of excessive dampness in any low areas that could be caused by seepage? Do you see any signs of erosion or holes that could be caused by a broken pipe?

Operate the System
Look for geysers, or water boiling out from under heads that could be broken off below the ground.

Call your Irrigation Contractor
If you have located a broken pipe or sprinkler in your walk through, notify the service technician. Your contractor can always provide a more thorough check of the system and let you know if the system is causing excessive water use.