Other Smart Sprinkler Timers claim simplicity and precision; the Rain Bird® ESP-SMT Smart Control System delivers. Combining the proven simplicity of the Extra Simple Programming (ESP) controller family with the accuracy of weather-based control, this innovative system is engineered to save valuable time, money and water.

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The ease and speed with which you can program this controller is remarkable. Simply input a few key specifics, such as your zip code, allowed watering days and the plant/soil type for each zone; the ESP-SMT does the rest. Your irrigation system waters only when the landscape requires it. And you save 30-70% in water.

The ESP-SMT maximizes water efficiency by factoring in everything from soil type to the slope of your lawn to the amount of sun exposure different areas receive. All of these details are calculated for every zone of your automatic sprinkler system to help you maintain a lush, healthy lawn and landscape.

Did you know that watering lawns and landscapes can account for up to 50% of an average homeowner’s total water use? Sadly, a lot of that water can be wasted due to inefficient or poorly maintained irrigation systems. With many cities imposing severe water restrictions due to drought, it is more important than ever to find out exactly how your sprinklers are performing. Read on to find out how an irrigation audit can save you a lot of water while keeping your landscape healthy and beautiful.

Auditing: The First Step To Efficient Irrigation

The best way to determine your sprinkler system efficiency is to have a certified professional come to your property and perform a detailed irrigation audit. They will conduct a series of inspections, run some performance tests, collect data, and calculate the efficiency of your system, zone by zone. They will also use this data to determine exactly how long you should run your sprinklers to keep your plants healthy while avoiding runoff and water waste.

* An irrigation audit will tell you many things about your system, including:
* Problems with your existing system, such as blocked, clogged or misaligned sprinklers Improper spacing of sprinkler heads
* The capabilities or limitations of your sprinkler timer
* If you have too little or too much water pressure
* Your soil type, root zone depth and amount of water available to the plants
* How evenly your sprinklers distribute water
* How much water your plants need based on their type and water requirements

After inspecting your system for any potential problems, the auditor will conduct a catch can test by placing a number of identical containers throughout your yard, then running your sprinklers for a few minutes. By measuring the amount of water collected in each catch can, the auditor can tell exactly how much water is being applied and how evenly it is distributed. A soil probe is used to determine the soil type (clay, loam, sand) and how deep the roots go down. All of this information is combined to develop a more accurate watering schedule. The schedule will tell you exactly how often and how long to run your sprinklers to deliver the precise amount of water needed. You might be surprised at the results.

Once you know exactly how your system performs, consider making some improvements to increase its efficiency. It may be worthwhile to upgrade your sprinkler timer to a newer, more powerful model with water saving features like Cycle+Soak and water budgeting. You may want to consider replacing old, worn out sprinklers with newer, more efficient models like dual spray or rotary nozzles. Adding a rain sensor or converting part of your system to drip irrigation can also save a lot of water. Your auditor can provide some suggestions on ways to make your sprinkler system more efficient.

Check with your local water district; they may be able to provide you with referrals to professionals in your area. Or ask your local landscape professional if they have a Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor on staff that can help you. A properly designed and maintained irrigation system will help keep your yard beautiful all season long, saving you time, effort and most importantly, water. Stay tuned for more helpful irrigation tips in the weeks ahead from Rain Bird and be sure to visit www.rainbird.com for more information about efficient irrigation systems and The Intelligent Use of Water™.

In the summer, outdoor kitchens are a perfect way to entertain and prepare delicious meals for friends and family while enjoying the fresh air. In the winter, an outdoor fireplace or fire pit provides comfort, warmth, and beauty, especially when situated next to a spa or pool.

Here at Graves Lawn and Landscape we know we have the perfect outdoor kitchen idea just for you! Call Today…