How to Adjust Your Sprinklers for Cooler Fall Temperatures
As the Arizona summer heat gives way to the milder days of fall, your irrigation system needs a little attention to keep your landscape healthy without overwatering. Adjusting your sprinklers for cooler weather helps conserve water, prevent waste, and protect your plants from root rot or stress. At Gem Irrigation and Landscape Lighting, we specialize in high-quality irrigation systems for Phoenix that are designed to adapt seamlessly to every season. Here’s how to get your sprinklers ready for the months ahead.
1. Reevaluate Your Watering Schedule
With lower temperatures and reduced evaporation, your lawn and plants require far less water in the fall than during the summer. Begin by cutting back the watering frequency—most landscapes in Phoenix can do well with watering every 3–5 days during autumn. Each zone may need different adjustments, depending on the type of plants, soil conditions, and exposure to sunlight.
If your system is on an automatic timer, be sure to reset it for the new schedule. Smart controllers make this easy by automatically adjusting based on weather data, saving time and water while keeping your landscape in top shape.
2. Check for Leaks and Clogs
This is also a great time for general irrigation maintenance. Inspect your sprinkler heads for leaks, cracks, or clogged nozzles that can affect performance. Clean out any debris that might block the spray pattern and ensure all heads are aligned to water the intended areas. Small issues can waste thousands of gallons over a season, so taking care of them now pays off in both water savings and system efficiency.
3. Adjust Watering Depth
During summer, water needs to penetrate deeply to help plants survive the heat. In the fall, shorter watering cycles are sufficient since roots don’t need to reach as deep for moisture. Make small changes—reduce run times by 20–30%—and monitor plant health over the following weeks. The goal is to keep soil moist but never soggy.
4. Prepare for Cold Snaps
While freezing temperatures are rare in Phoenix, a sudden cold spell can still occur. It’s wise to know how to shut off your irrigation system and drain lines if needed. Insulate exposed pipes or backflow devices to prevent damage. If your system has a rain sensor, test it to make sure it’s working properly before winter arrives.
Ready to fine-tune your irrigation and lighting this season? Contact Gem Irrigation and Landscape Lighting today for professional service, inspections, and adjustments. From seasonal irrigation services to lighting services, our experts help keep your outdoor spaces looking their best year-round.
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