Ways to Save
#1: Go check the weather, Heather. You can sometimes depend on Mother Nature to do your watering for you! If you can't tell if your lawn needs water after a storm, slide a long screwdriver into the soil. If it slides easily, there is no need to water yet.
#2: Establish deep roots, Ruth. Want a more resilient lawn? Try watering only once per week. Your turf will grow deeper roots as it searches for moisture, which helps it stays lush and green even during hot spells.
#4: Get acquainted with tiers, Pierce. We're serious about saving water - which is why we charge higher rates to those who use more water than the average Allen customer. See how many gallons you can use before entering a higher rate tier by reviewing our Service Rates and Penalty Fees.
#5: Check all your zones, Joan. Does your irrigation system have multiple zones? If so, when is the last time you checked them all for leaks? Identify missing heads, broken tubing and other issues after watching this installment of the Sustainable Landscape Series.
#9: Harness the rain, Shane. There's a bright side to summer downpours: Free water! Turn off any scheduled irrigation after heavy rainfall to give your system a break.
- Get SMART! Once Allen makes the switch to Smart Water Meters, residents will be able to compare their own water use against local temperatures and rainfall. This helps customers easily identify factors that contribute to different water use patterns year-to-year. Learn more.
#10: Don't blame the sod, Maude. It’s nearly impossible to grow certain types of grass in heavily-shaded areas, no matter how much you water it. If you’re trying to green up parts of your lawn that don’t get much sun, try selecting shade-loving grasses or plants instead. Review Texas A&M AgriLife's list of turf grasses to find the best options for your local climate and growing conditions.
#13: Get to know your grass, Chaz. For a healthier and greener lawn, mow at the highest level recommended for your grass variety. Not sure what kind of grass you have? Texas A&M AgriLife offers a helpful key to identify the type growing in your lawn. Visit the AggieTurf website.
#14: Invest in a sensor, Spencer. Rain and freeze sensors override all settings on your sprinkler system, telling your system not to turn on if the device contains water or detects freezing temperatures. We’re such big fans of this feature, we’ll actually give you a rebate on your water bill if you buy one and use it! See rebate offers.