We’re still in Stage 3 watering rules — be sure to adjust the clock one hour ahead on the irrigation controller.
As temperatures warm, it’s important to adjust your sprinkler system controller to accommodate daylight saving time — and Stage 3 watering rules.
Newer irrigation controllers may automatically ask for time, date and year after daylight saving time begins. But older models will require you to reset it. (Review your user manual to see if yours makes the change automatically.)
And while you’re at the controller, change the battery for backup of the time display to make sure the controller maintains the correct time in case of a power failure. It’s found behind the display panel and is usually a 9-volt battery. Hint: It’s good practice to change the battery of the controller and test your smoke detector at the same time.
Also, this is a great time to evaluate the controller’s settings.
- Check the start time to make sure it’s within Stage 3 watering hours of 5-10 a.m. and 9 p.m. to midnight. Only one start time is necessary and the total run time per zone can be split between morning and evening.
- Check the days of your sprinkler zones. Remember, your watering day is based on the last digit of your street address.
The only grasses growing in earnest right now are winter weeds like rescue grass, so your irrigation system may still be in the off mode. But if it’s already running, in March the seasonal adjust percent can be set 50 percent less than in summer.
Getting to know your controller’s settings will not only save water during the ongoing drought, but also save money.
