As the summer heat bears down on us, it's important to remember that our backyards and gardens can be both a sanctuary and a significant source of water expenditure. The City of Goodyear reminds residents outdoor water usage can account for a staggering 50-70% of their yearly water bills.
To combat this expense and encourage efficient water use, the city has released tips that show just a little attention can go a long way. For starters, focus on putting water only where it's needed; that's to say, keep it off the streets, sidewalks, or the patio. The Goodyear community is urged not to water during windy times, as it can lead to unnecessary loss through evaporation.
According to an announcement from the City of Goodyear, the guidelines suggest avoiding irrigation during rain or just after, and to forego watering during the hot sunny hours, when the water simply "sizzles and evaporates." It's also recommended homeowners turn off sprinklers when a probe can easily penetrate 6-10 inches into the lawn, and to shut off drip irrigation once the probe goes down 18 inches into soil.
Another critical aspect of managing water effectively is plant segregation. Keep those greens with similar thirst levels together to streamline watering needs. Meanwhile, regular checks of your irrigation system for leaks or malfunctioning parts stand as a non-negotiable practice; replace or repair these components promptly to ensure efficient water use.
For more water-saving tips, City of Goodyear's website is a handy resource.
