Here in the capital region, too many people with timed irrigation systems are starting their watering at 4, 5 and 6 a.m. on their lawn watering days. Amplified by heavier indoor water use as people get ready for the day, water demand can double with the instantaneous increases, straining the region's water supply infrastructure. The high and sudden demands for water impact the system’s ability to maintain adequate flow, pressure and high water quality.
However, a simple change to irrigation start times can help.
The CRD amended its water conservation bylaw to add a new lawn watering time – 12:01 a.m. to 10 a.m. – on residential watering days for timed irrigation systems only. This extra time gives room for those with automatic/timed irrigation systems to avoid the hours of peak demand and reduce stress on the distribution system.
How can you help? Adjust your irrigation system watering start time to ease morning demand.
- Switch your automatic irrigation to the *NEW* overnight lawn watering time (between 12:01 and 10am), preferably before 4 am.
- Be sure to set your system to start at times other than the top of the hour – pick a unique time like 12:21 a.m., 2:14 a.m. or 3:42 a.m.
- Even those without a green space can help by not using large amounts of water before 10 a.m. Strive for a five-minute shower and delay starting your dishwasher and washing machine until later in the day.
Troubleshooting tips
Having trouble switching your timer? Check your system’s manufacturer website for how-to tips. if you still need help, email waterwise@crd.bc.ca for support.
For those looking for additional ways to help protect and preserve our water supply, here are a few easy opportunities:
- Let your lawn go golden this summer, it will bounce back to green in the fall.
- Keep your lawn green with only one inch of water a week, including rain.
- Water in short bursts to let water seep into the soil, promoting strong roots.
- Garden with native plants – once established, they require little to no watering and support biodiversity.
- If you can, water flowers, veggies, trees and shrubs on non-lawn watering days. The watering schedule days only apply to lawns!
To learn more, visit www.crd.ca/water