14 Minute Read
As a commercial property manager or HOA Board, you’ve likely faced the frustrating cycle of watching your landscape struggle despite pouring money into irrigation.
The costs add up quickly, and yet the results don’t always seem to reflect your investment–your grass is left patchy, your plants are suffering, or your water bills keep rising. It can feel like no matter what you do, you’re wasting resources without seeing the lush, vibrant landscape you’ve envisioned.
If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Managing irrigation systems in Houston can be challenging, to say the least.
There’s a lot to know about commercial irrigation systems here in Houston, and we want to make sure you are educated so you can make wise decisions to conserve water and save money. Check out this guide to learn everything you need to know about irrigation management for commercial properties.
Understanding Irrigation Management Basics
Seasonal Irrigation Tips
Water Conservation Strategies
Common Irrigation Challenges and Solutions
Managing Irrigation Costs
Selecting an Irrigation Partner
Irrigation management is the strategic approach to controlling the amount, timing, and application of water to your landscape. In commercial settings, efficient irrigation is vital for maintaining healthy, thriving landscapes without overuse of resources. Proper irrigation management ensures that plantings receive the water they need to grow while minimizing water waste, managing costs, and promoting sustainability.
In Houston, where our weather patterns can vary significantly, effective irrigation management is key to adapting to changing conditions and maintaining consistent landscape quality. Let’s look at how commercial systems operate and the different types of commercial irrigation systems so you can truly understand how irrigation works at your commercial property.
Commercial irrigation systems are complex networks that ensure your landscape receives the right amount of water at the right time. These systems operate by coordinating various components, including controllers, valves, and irrigation main and lateral lines, to effectively manage water distribution across different zones. Understanding how these systems work can help you make informed decisions about maintenance, upgrades, and repairs that can improve water efficiency and prevent costly damage. Below, we will explore the key elements of commercial irrigation systems and how they operate to keep your landscape healthy and thriving.
Controllers are the ‘brain’ of commercial irrigation systems. They determine when and for how long the irrigation zones should operate. This timing is critical because it helps optimize water use based on the landscape’s needs. Traditional controllers are manually programmed, but modern systems often use smart technology. Smart controllers automatically adjust watering schedules based on local weather data, ensuring that your landscape isn’t over or under-watered. Upgrading to a smart controller can significantly reduce water consumption and save money over time.
Water enters the irrigation system through a meter, which is the connection to your local water supply. Located near the meter are the Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVBs) or backflow preventers, which are required on all commercial systems. Ensuring these backflow preventers are functional is critical to protecting the water supply. Different municipalities may require backflows to be inspected periodically.
The system’s controller communicates with the irrigation valves, each of which controls a specific zone. Zones are designated areas of the landscape that need specific irrigation based on plant type, sun exposure, or slope. When a valve opens, water flowers into the zone from the main irrigation line. If a valve gets stuck or a leak occurs, turning off that zone at the controller can prevent further water loss until repairs can be made.
The main irrigation line supplies water to the entire system. All zones draw water from this line, so if it breaks, the system needs to be shut down at the meter or backflow preventer to stop water loss. A quick response to any line breakages is crucial to prevent extensive water waste and potential landscape or property damage.
Understanding and managing irrigation is fundamental for maintaining vibrant commercial landscapes in Houston. Combining a variety of types of irrigation systems can protect your landscaping investment.
Drip irrigation systems deliver water slowly and directly to the plant roots through a network of tubes and emitters. This method is highly efficient, especially in Texas, as it minimizes water loss due to evaporation or runoff, making it ideal for plants that need precise watering like shrubs and flower beds.
Spray irrigation systems are what you typically think of when someone says irrigation. These spray heads or rotors distribute water across zoned areas. These systems are suitable for landscaped beds or for turf areas and can be customized with various nozzle types to control water flow and patterns. However, spray irrigation can lead to water waste if not properly managed, especially if sprays or rotors are misaligned or overwater hardscape areas. This is why regular irrigation system inspections are key.
As mentioned briefly above, smart irrigation systems take advantage of technology to optimize water usage. These systems use weather data, ambient temperature, and other inputs to adjust watering schedules in real time. By accounting for actual conditions, smart systems help to prevent overwatering during rainy periods or underwatering during dry spells. They are a valuable investment for commercial properties looking to reduce water costs and promote sustainability.
Our climate here in Houston presents unique challenges when managing commercial irrigation. Hot, humid summers, frequent rainfall, and the potential for severe weather all require strategic adjustments to keep landscapes healthy while conserving water. Seasonal irrigation management involves making critical changes to watering schedules and system settings throughout the year to adapt to changing weather conditions and ensure efficiency.
The best time to water commercial landscapes in Houston is during the early morning hours. During this time, temperatures are cooler, and wind speeds are typically lower, which helps reduce water loss due to evaporation. Watering in the early morning allows moisture to soak into the soil before the heat of the day sets in, providing plants with the hydration they need to endure Housont’s high temperatures. Avoid watering late in the afternoon or evening, as this can lead to fungal growth and disease due to excess moisture sitting on plants overnight.
.jpg?width=1200&height=800&name=Vintage%20Royale%20HOA%20irrigation%20(2).jpg)
Seasonal irrigation management is essential to ensuring commercial landscapes in Houston thrive year-round. By making thoughtful adjustments to watering schedules and implementing smart technology your business or HOA can maintain healthy landscapes. Check out these seasonal irrigation tips:
Water conservation is a vital aspect of commercial irrigation management, especially in Houston, where periodic droughts and municipal water restrictions can challenge property managers. Implementing smart conservation strategies not only helps businesses comply with local regulations but also reduces water waste and promotes sustainability.
During periods of drought, different municipalities in and around Houston, including the City of Houston and Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs), may issue specific guidelines on when and how commercial properties can irrigate their landscapes. These guidelines often include restrictions on the days and times when irrigation systems can operate. For example, in the past, the City of Houston and MUD districts have implemented water use restrictions that are strictly enforced. Violations of these regulations can lead to fines that exceed $500, putting additional financial pressure on your business or HOA.
Municipalities may also require the use of designated irrigation meters to track water usage specifically for landscaping purposes. Commercial properties must ensure compliance with these guidelines by adjusting their irrigation schedules and employing water-saving techniques.
Conserving water in commercial irrigation systems is not just about meeting regulations–it’s about creating sustainable landscapes that thrive even in Houston’s challenging conditions. Try these ideas to help you conserve water year-round:
Managing a commercial irrigation system is not without its challenges. Over time, various issues can arise that compromise the system’s efficiency and the health of the landscape. By recognizing these problems early and addressing them with targeted solutions, your business can ensure your irrigation system operates effectively and conserves resources.
One of the most common issues in commercial irrigation is improper watering. Overwatering can lead to water waste, root rot, and increased susceptibility to disease, while underwatering causes drought stress, leading to an unsightly landscape and plant health decline. Achieving the right balance requires careful management and adjustments throughout the year, particularly during seasonal shifts or periods of drought.
Clogged sprinkler heads can significantly reduce the efficiency of a commercial irrigation system. Dirt, debris, and mineral deposits can block the nozzles, leading to uneven water distribution. This can result in dry spots in some areas and excessive watering in others.
.jpg?width=1200&height=800&name=Dellrose%20HOA%20irrigation%20adjust%20(2).jpg)
Leaks in irrigation lines, valves, or spray heads are a major cause of water loss in commercial irrigation systems. Even a small leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water over time, increasing costs, and potentially damaging the landscape. Leaks near hardscapes such as walking paths may create slippery conditions that pose safety hazards.
Older irrigation systems often lack the precision and efficiency of modern systems. Outdated controllers may not be able to adjust for weather conditions, leading to inefficient watering schedules. Older irrigation lines may also become brittle and prone to breaks, especially in areas with tree roots or heavy foot traffic. These older systems may also suffer from inconsistent water pressure, resulting in uneven coverage across the entire landscape.
Frequent inspections are essential to identifying and addressing irrigation issues before they become major problems. Regularly checking for leaks, clogged heads, and non functioning valves ensures that the system operates efficiently and prevents water waste. Monthly inspections are recommended, but utilizing smart controllers that monitor the system in real-time can help catch issues as they occur.
If an irrigation system is frequently in need of repairs, or if it does not provide proper water pressure and coverage, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Outdated systems can become costly to maintain and inefficient overtime. Upgrading may involve adding an irrigation meter to improve pressure, splitting zones to balance water distribution, or replacing the main and lateral lines if they have become brittle or damaged by tree roots. Upgrading spray heads or transitioning to more advanced technology, such as smart controllers and drip systems, can also enhance water efficiency.
Consistently performing recommended repairs is critical to maintaining an efficient irrigation system. Delaying repairs not only increases water waste but can also lead to plant decline and additional costs. Budgeting for monthly repairs can help prevent large, unexpected repair bills and ensure the system continues to operate smoothly. Routine maintenance keeps the system functioning properly, protecting the landscape and extending the life of the irrigation infrastructure.
Irrigation systems are a crucial part of maintaining the health and beauty of commercial landscapes, but managing the costs associated with their upkeep can be challenging. A well-planned budget and proactive maintenance can help businesses in Houston keep irrigation expenses under control while ensuring their systems operate efficiently.
Creating an effective budget for commercial irrigation services starts with understanding the current state of the system. An initial irrigation audit is a valuable first step. This comprehensive assessment involves evaluating the condition of the entire system, identifying inefficiencies, and determining where repairs or upgrades may be necessary. The audit provides a clear picture of what’s going on with the system and serves as the foundation for a realistic budget.
By identifying problem areas early, your business or HOA can prioritize repairs and upgrades, avoiding more costly issues down the line. It can help you to allocate funds appropriately and ensure the irrigation system is prepared to handle Houston’s unique climate challenges.
One of the most effective ways to manage commercial irrigation costs is through regular maintenance and inspections. In most commercial maintenance contracts, irrigation inspections are typically built in, ensuring that potential issues are caught early before they escalate. The cost of inspections and repairs can vary greatly depending on factors such as the number of controllers, the number of zones, and the age of the system.
Selecting the right commercial irrigation partner is crucial to maintaining the health of your landscape and managing costs effectively. With Houston’s unique climate and environment, it’s essential to work with a local, experienced and certified company that can provide the expertise and support your commercial property needs.
When it comes to choosing an irrigation partner, local experience matters. A company that understands Houston’s climate, soil conditions, and drought management guidelines is better equipped to handle the specific challenges your property faces. Working with a local commercial irrigation company ensures that you’re getting knowledgeable support that is tailored to our region.
In addition to local knowledge, certifications are an important factor to consider. Certified irrigation professionals adhere to industry standards, ensuring that your system is installed, maintained, and repaired correctly. These professionals are trained to handle complex irrigation challenges, from optimizing water usage to ensuring compliance with local regulations.
The cost of not partnering with experienced and certified professionals can truly be significant. Improperly installed or maintained irrigation systems can lead to water loss, landscape damage, costly repairs, and frankly an unsightly landscape. By partnering with a reputable company you can avoid these pitfalls and ensure that your system operates efficiently.
Before selecting a commercial irrigation service provider, it’s important to check customer reviews and ask for referrals. Online reviews offer valuable insight into the quality of service a company provides, giving you a sense of their reliability, professionalism, and customer satisfaction.
Don’t hesitate to ask potential partners for referrals from other commercial properties they service. Speaking directly with current clients can provide deeper insights into how the company operates, their responsiveness, and their ability to deliver on promises. This feedback can be crucial in helping you make an informed decision.
One of the most important aspects of working with a commercial irrigation company is effective communication. From the initial consultation to ongoing maintenance, clear and consistent communication ensures that your needs are both understood and met. A good irrigation partner will keep you informed about system performance, potential issues, and upcoming maintenance needs. They should also be responsive to your questions and concerns, providing regular updates and recommendations as needed.
When communication is strong, you can trust that your irrigation system is being managed effectively, with any issues addressed before they become costly problems.
When it comes to commercial irrigation services in Houston, Monarch Landscape Management stands out as a reliable and experienced partner. With a deep understanding of Houston’s unique landscape challenges and a commitment to providing top-notch service, we offer comprehensive irrigation solutions tailored to your commercial property’s needs.
With over ten licensed irrigation professionals on staff, you can be sure your irrigation system is maintained with precision and care. With our goal to help protect your landscape investment while reducing water waste and managing costs, we hope that you will consider Monarch as an option in your search for a commercial irrigation partner.
Looking for a commercial irrigation partner you can trust? Get started today by filling out our contact form.
Written By: Monarch Landscape Management
1850 Hollister St.
Houston, Texas 77080
713.849.6600