A little maintenance goes a long way toward making your home irrigation (sprinkler) system work better and use water more efficiently, saving you money on your utility bills.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, homes with clock timer-controlled irrigation systems use about 50 percent more water outdoors than homes without irrigation systems. Systems can waste even more if programmed incorrectly, if a sprinkler head is pointed in the wrong direction, or if they have a leak.

You can spruce up your irrigation system in four simple steps: inspect, connect, direct, and select.

I pay someone to manage my landscape

I maintain my own landscape and irrigation system

Want to take your landscape to the next level by going Florida-friendly? Free classes, events, and Master Gardener advice are available through  Hillsborough County Extension Service. You may even qualify for a free irrigation evaluation.

Note: Adapted from EPA WaterSense materials

601 E. Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33602