Tip one: Use efficient sprinklers to avoid water waste.
Reduce pressure to reduce wasted water from spray sprinklers.
Do you have spray sprinklers? Most sprinkler nozzles have recommended operating pressures between 30 pounds per square inch (psi) and 45 psi, while water system pressure typically ranges from 40 to 80 psi.
- To help sprinklers function efficiently under high incoming pressures, you can install WaterSense-labeled spray sprinkler bodies at each sprinkler or install a pressure-regulating valve on the whole system.
- The top image shows an irrigation system operating at high pressure. This can waste water due to high flow rates, misting, and uneven coverage, which can also negatively affect landscape health.
- The bottom image shows the benefits of pressure regulation using WaterSense-labeled spray sprinkler bodies: consistent flow, reduction in misting and overspray, and improved coverage.
Switch to multistream rotating sprinklers.
Consider replacing standard spray heads with multistream rotators for up to 30 percent water savings.
- Multistream rotators apply water more slowly and evenly than standard spray heads. This is especially important if you have a sloping landscape or clay soil. Most standard sprinklers can be upgraded with a multistream rotating nozzle.
- Qualifying multistream rotating sprinklers not only help reduce water use, but are also eligible for a rebate from the Water Bureau.
Tip two: Start smart watering with a WaterSense-labeled controller.
Do you have an in-ground irrigation system with an old clock-timer controller? Consider replacing your old controller with a WaterSense-labeled smart controller. Smart controllers use local weather data or soil moisture measurements to automatically adjust how long and how often your irrigation system runs. Portland Water Bureau customers who install an approved WaterSense-labeled irrigation controller are eligible for rebates up to $100 for residential accounts and up to $500 for commercial or multifamily accounts. Limit one rebate per account.
Do it yourself or work with a pro.
A new smart controller must be wired correctly and programmed carefully to achieve water savings. If you’d rather hire a pro than do it yourself, the EPA’s WaterSense program certifies irrigation professionals who practice water‐efficient techniques. Find a WaterSense-certified irrigation professional in the Portland metro area.
Tip three: Sign up for the Weekly Watering Number.
Take the guesswork out of watering and sign up to receive a personalized Weekly Watering Number each week. The Weekly Watering Number can be used with any type of watering system you have. It takes just 15 minutes to measure how much water your system uses (don’t worry, this is a one-time thing!) and you'll be set to water efficiently all summer long.
Tip four: Get smart about watering the old-fashioned way.
Watering by hand can be a smart way to water too! If you use a hose to “hand water” plants, a self-closing hose nozzle is an easy way to keep water only where you need it. As an added benefit, these nozzles often provide multiple spray patterns such as shower, mist, and jet. The Portland Water Bureau offers FREE hose nozzles and other water-saving devices to customers.