Think you know what’s using the most water in your home? The kitchen sink? The shower? Maybe the toilet? While those are common guesses, the real water guzzler might surprise you: your irrigation system. In many Florida homes, a single irrigation cycle can use nearly 1,000 gallons of water. That’s comparable to taking an eight-hour shower or flushing the toilet hundreds of times!
With numbers like that, it’s clear that being smart with your irrigation system is one of the most impactful ways to conserve water and save money.
July is Smart Irrigation Month
July is Smart Irrigation Month, a timely reminder during Florida’s peak summer heat to be mindful of outdoor water use. One of the easiest ways to be water-wise is by watering on the correct days and at the right times. Every household in Toho’s service area has assigned watering days. Following these guidelines helps protect our community’s water supply and ensures there’s enough for everyone.
You can find your assigned watering days and times by visiting tohowater.com and navigating to Community > Ways to Conserve > Watering Days and Times.
Outsmart Your System
Most irrigation systems operate at only 50% efficiency, often watering sidewalks, driveways, or evaporating in the midday sun. But with a few simple checks, you can boost your system’s performance.
1. Avoid Watering Pavement
If your sprinklers are hitting sidewalks or driveways, it’s time for a quick adjustment. Depending on the sprinkler type, you may need to reposition the head or simply twist the top if it’s adjustable. A small fix can lead to big savings.
2. Check for Leaks
Leaks in your irrigation system can waste hundreds of gallons in a short time. Look for signs of geysers or pooling water. Fixing leaks not only conserves water but also keeps your bill in check.
3. Test Your Rain Sensor
Your rain sensor is a small device with a big job: it shuts off your system when it rains. This prevents overwatering and reminds you that nature already did the work. Make sure your sensor is working properly and replace it if needed.
Need Help? We’ve Got You Covered
Toho offers free irrigation evaluations to help you get the most out of your system.
Our team will check for visible leaks and set your system to the most efficient settings. It’s a simple way to save water, lower your bill, and support our community’s sustainability.
Schedule your free evaluation at qrco.de/TohoHelp.
