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Smart irrigation and water-wise yards

Irrigation is usually the biggest water use in a Temecula Valley home, and a broken line or overwatering can soak slabs, walls and slopes.

Smart controllers

Weather-based controllers such as Orbit B-hyve and Rachio adjust watering for temperature and rain, and many can alert you to unusual flow that may mean a broken line. They're simple to install in place of an old timer.

Check for rebates

Local water districts and regional programs often offer rebates for smart controllers, drip conversion and turf replacement. Programs change, so check your district's website for current offers before you buy.

Find irrigation leaks

• Soggy spots, puddles or unusually green patches
• Water flowing from a valve box
• Sprinklers with weak spray or geysers
• A meter that moves when irrigation is off

Water-wise tips

• Water early in the morning, and skip watering before and after rain.
• Convert shrub beds to drip, and keep spray off walls and foundations.
• Consider drought-tolerant and California native plants.
• Many local districts use budget-based tiered rates, so overwatering can push you into higher-cost tiers.