SmartIrrigation System Evaluation

A key to using an irrigation system efficiently is to know how it works. If the controller has not been programmed since the home was built, and the home is more than one year old, the irrigation system is probably watering too much. Why? Irrigation systems are initially set to establish plants and sod. After plantings are established, typically within 30 days, water cycles should be re-programmed.

System check-up

Fort Worth residential water customers can receive one free irrigation system evaluation.

The assessment is much like a car tune up. It will check your irrigation system components to ensure they are operating at peak performance. Over time, even the most efficient systems begin to break down. Without a check up, operation and performance problems can go undetected, resulting in excessive water use and poor system efficiency.

During the assessment, a licensed irrigation inspector will evaluate your system to identify broken, misaligned or leaking heads, incorrect controller settings, pressure and flow issues, distribution uniformity issues, water waste and other system inefficiencies. You will receive recommendations for any problems identified to improve water efficiency and save money.

Use the online request forms or call 817-392-8740 to request an evaluation.

Request a residential irrigation system evaluation

Self-care tips

But if you want to do it yourself, here are some basic water-saving tips to help ensure your irrigation system is operating properly.

  • Program your irrigation system seasonally. During the summer months when high temperatures drain moisture more quickly, one inch is needed every five days. In the spring and fall, one inch is needed every 10 to 15 days and every 15-20 days in the winter.
  • Adjust sprinkler heads as needed. Make sure the intended area is being watered, rather than the driveway, street or sidewalks.
  • Make sure your landscape is hydrozoned. Hydrozoning separates beds and turf with separate water needs into different zones. This allows for more efficient watering, based on plant needs, sun and shade.
  • Make sure your timer is set to water before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
  • Install a rain or freeze sensor. These automatic sensors will ensure your system doesn’t go off when it’s raining. Sensors can be easily added to most systems and are required for all new installations.
  • Inspect your system regularly. Check for leaks, broken, missing or clogged heads.
  • Water deeply and infrequently. One inch every five to seven days is recommended. This will penetrate 4-6 inches below ground to help build a strong root system for your plants.

The efficiency of an irrigation system requires maintenance check-ups to ensure it’s operating at peak performance. Know your irrigation system and be water smart!