TECHNOLOGY: URBAN WATER-SAVING SOLUTIONS FOR LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION SNAPSHOT • Retrofitting the right product in the right location can bring about significant water use savings • Product solutions for saving water include: fitting weather-aware controllers, replacing inefficient sprinklers, converting to drip and regulating water pressure
from anywhere in the world at any time via computer or smartphone. Using controllers connected to the internet means that watering schedules based on accurate weather data, including temperature, rainfall probability, wind speed, and humidity can be easily and quickly adjusted. The next step is to add a flow meter to measure water use and detect broken pipes or sprinklers. Constant monitoring of electrical current flows allows contractors to receive alerts before issues become problems.
Responsible water use is something the irrigation industry promotes as a matter of course for landscape irrigation. The four key ingredients for maximising landscape water use efficiency are: well-designed systems, products that are fit for purpose and properly installed by certified professionals, regionally appropriate plant choices and informed irrigation operators. In this article Gavin Jones looks at some of the savings that can be achieved by using the right product for the right job. Product solutions for saving water Fortunately, the irrigation industry is well served in having access to effective product solutions and professionals who can advise on and install the right equipment for the job at hand. Retrofitting inefficient or old, worn-out spray systems with more efficient sprinklers is the easiest way to see an immediate reduction in water use. Every system, no matter where it is located, should have a smart controller that delivers water based on local weather conditions. Other solutions include converting small areas from overhead spray to drip irrigation and adding pressure regulation to any system for optimal product performance. Teaming up with manufacturers who make water conservation a top priority when developing products and providing training and support is more important than ever. Here are a few simple changes to dramatically reduce outdoor water use.
Weather-aware irrigation controllers ✔ Water savings of up to 50 per cent By combining Wi-Fi enabled controllers with compatible web-based software, irrigation professionals can achieve up to 50 per cent water savings for their customers. These controllers allow management of irrigation systems
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Investing in a water meter, which will measure water use and help detect leaks and broken pipes, is a next step after installing a central control system.
