Tips for Efficient and Effective Outdoor Water Use

Since we've already experienced hot weather this spring, it's a good time to evaluate how we use water outdoors, as our water habits need to adjust to the warmer season. By paying attention to how and where you use water, you can keep your outdoor watering efficient and effective even as temperatures rise.

Inspect your irrigation system

Take a few minutes to check your irrigation system. Just turn it on and walk around your yard to make sure everything is working as it should. This is a good way to spot leaks early and fix them before they waste water. You can find help in AMWUA's Smart Home Water Guide or get more tips on the Landscaping with Style website.

Tailor your watering schedule for landscapes in the Sonoran Desert

Most new landscape plants need regular watering at first to get established, and some will need it from time to time to stay healthy. Our hot, sunny climate makes water evaporate quickly from soil and plants. Once they’re established, desert plants can usually get by on rain, with just a little extra water during long dry spells.

Sign up for watering text alerts
Text WHENTOWATER to 1-844-416-1428 to get a monthly message with a link to the latest watering guidelines. These reminders help you adjust your watering based on the weather and give you clear instructions for all your plants. They make it easier to keep your yard healthy while saving water and money. 

Utilize the Landscape Watering by the Numbers Guide

If you want more details about outdoor watering, try this interactive guide. It shows you how much and how often to water, how to set your irrigation timer, how to fix common problems, and offers plenty of other helpful tips.

Evaluate your water use

You might be surprised by how much water you use every day. Are you wondering if you’re using the right amount both inside your home and in your yard? The AMWUA Water Use Calculator can help. Just answer a few simple questions, and it will estimate how much water you need each month based on your household and landscape.

Using water efficiently outdoors is important throughout the year, particularly as temperatures rise and water use increases. Small actions to improve your outdoor water use can save time, water, and money. Every person has a role in conserving water responsibly and contributing to a sustainable future for our communities.

You can find more water-saving tips and resources on our website. 

For 57 years, the Arizona Municipal Water Users Association has worked to protect our member cities' ability to provide assured, safe, and sustainable water supplies to their communities – Avondale, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Goodyear, Mesa, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe. For more information on water, visit www.amwua.org.