July is Smart Irrigation Month: Use Water Wisely

Water use peaks in July. That is why the Irrigation Association is looking to get 100 supporters by July 7th in celebration of Smart Irrigation Month. Smart Irrigation Month is all about educating each other about efficient water use and encouraging smart irrigation practices and technologies in order to save water.

Find some tips about using water wisely below:

1. Schedule each individual zone in your irrigation system. Some spots get more sun than other. Instead of watering your entire lawn to compensate for this, just schedule that one section differently.

2. Make sure water is being used only where it's necessary. Be aware of where you are setting your sprinkler. If it's watering your driveway more than your plants, try adjusting it.

3. Water when the sun is low or down. Watering during the hottest parts of the day wastes water because of evaporation.

4. Water frequently, and in short intervals. A system of 3, 5-minute intervals makes for better water absorption than 15 minutes of watering at one time.

5. Adjust the watering schedule based on season. If you are not familiar with the settings on your irrigation system, consider installing a smart controller which makes these adjustments automatically.

At NY Plumbing & Sewer Rooter we understand the value of using water wisely. There are plenty of ways you can save water inside and outside of your home, including the installation of water-efficient plumbing fixtures. Call us today for assistance.

Read more at irrigation.org.

Simple Tips For Saving Water Outdoors

Summer time is just around the corner and every homeowner wants their lawn looking greener than ever. However, the amount of water homeowners use in the summer is two to four times as much water than they use the rest of the year.

It is important to know that there are ways to save water outdoors and still have a beautiful landscape. Get the tips from WaterSense here:

• Timing is everything: Know how much water your landscape actually needs before you set your sprinkler. Your local utility can offer recommendations for how much water certain plants need in your region and best times to water. Generally, it's best to water lawns and landscapes in the early morning and evening, after the sun goes down, because significant amounts of water can be lost due to evaporation during the heat of the day.
• Look for the label: If your system uses a clock timer, consider upgrading to a WaterSense labeled controller which acts like a thermostat for your lawn, using local weather data to determine when and how much to water, reducing waste and improving plant health. Replacing a standard clock timer with a WaterSense labeled irrigation controller can save an average home nearly 8,800 gallons of water annually.
• Go with a pro: Contractors certified through a WaterSense labeled program can audit, install, or maintain home irrigation systems to ensure water isn't wasted. Make sure you ask for credentials.
• Tune up your system: Inspect irrigation systems and check for leaks and broken or clogged sprinkler heads. Fix sprinkler heads that are broken or spraying on the sidewalk, street, or driveway.
• Play zone defense: When planting, assign areas of your landscape different hydrozones depending on sun/shade exposure, soil and plant types, and type of sprinklers, then adjust your irrigation system or watering schedule based on those zones' specific needs. This helps you avoid overwatering some areas or underwatering others.

For over 50 years New York Plumbing & Sewer Rooter has provided excellent plumbing, sewer and drain cleaning, as well as heating service, repairs and installation. For all of your outdoor and indoor plumbing needs this summer call us at 718-514-7145.

World Water Day 2014

World Water Day 2014 is this Saturday, March 22nd. This year the UN System's attention will be paid to identifying best practices that can make a water- and energy-efficient 'Green Industry' a reality. This years key messages include: 

1. Water requires energy and energy requires water.

2. Supplies are limited and demand is increasing.

3. Saving energy is saving water. Saving water is saving energy.

4. The “bottom billion” urgently needs access to both water and sanitation services, and electricity.

5. Improving water and energy efficiency is imperative as are coordinated, coherent and concerted policies.

Read more at unwater.org.