Top Irrigation Mistakes Homeowners Make (And How to Avoid Costly Damage)

A healthy landscape starts with proper irrigation — yet many homeowners unknowingly make mistakes that waste water, damage plants, and increase utility bills. At Emerald Irrigation & Landscape Construction, we regularly fix irrigation system issues that could have been avoided with the right planning and system setup. Plan ahead for the spring, and avoid the most common irrigation mistakes we see in Penticton.

1. Overwatering Lawns and Gardens

2. Poor Sprinkler Head Placement

Sprinklers that spray sidewalks, driveways, or fences waste water and leave grass and flower beds dry. Incorrect placement leads to uneven coverage and over time, contribute to higher water bills. A professionally designed irrigation layout ensures every zone gets the right amount of water.

3. Ignoring Seasonal Adjustments

Watering schedules should change throughout the year. Many homeowners forget to adjust systems for spring growth, summer heat, or fall cooling. Smart irrigation controllers and seasonal checkups can significantly reduce water usage while protecting your landscape.

4. Mixing Plants With Different Water Needs

Trees, shrubs, and lawns require different amounts of water. Grouping everything into one irrigation zone often results in stressed plants. Hydrozoning allows efficient watering based on plant needs, improving overall landscape health.

5. Skipping Regular Irrigation System Maintenance

Leaks, clogged heads, and broken valves often go unnoticed during our busy summers. We recommend a mid-season irrigation inspection to help catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs or landscape damage.