Fall is here; as temperatures begin to cool and days get shorter, landscapes need less water.  Check out these fall water use efficiency tips:

• Set your irrigation clock an hour back and replace your batteries when daylight saving time ends.
• Water in early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation and wind interference.
• Consider installing a rain barrel collection system to harvest rain water.  For more information visit http://www.socalwatersmart.com
• Adjust irrigation controllers to cut back on watering days and times.  Use the Landscape Water Calculator to determine your plants’ watering needs.
• Inspect your irrigation system for leaks, over-spray, water pressure issues and broken components, and fix them promptly.
• Refresh mulch around trees and plants to reduce evaporation and prevent weed growth.

Need help assessing your irrigation system? Take advantage of a free WaterSmart Check-up, which includes site-specific water-saving recommendations from a certified irrigation professional. Click here for more information or to schedule an appointment.