By Gary Deters
Updated technology products for saving water in home lawn irrigation systems have been available for many years. These products include Wi-Fi-enabled irrigation controllers, rain sensors, soil sensors, smart sprinkler heads, and smart hose timers. The benefit of the Wi-Fi-enabled controllers or weather-based products is they automatically adjust watering schedules based on current or future weather conditions. This helps homeowners avoid over-watering or under-watering, and conserves water. It also helps provide peace of mind, as homeowners don’t have to worry about adjusting sprinklers when weather changes or when they are not home to monitor conditions.
When properly working, rain sensors can stop irrigation programs from automatically running during or after rain events. Soil sensors can prohibit irrigation programs from operating because they measure soil moisture. They can help take the guesswork out of setting up a program because there could be sufficient moisture in the soil even though the lawn appears to be dry. Regardless, any of these products (Figure 1) can save water by reducing unnecessary irrigation and can help lower water and utility bills.
Over the last decade, the Metropolitan Council has received funds from the Minnesota Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment to grant Twin Cities communities water-saving products, including irrigation controllers and sprinkler bodies. The Water Efficiency Grant Program is currently running from 2024-2026 for many cities in the Twin Cities metro. This program specifically targets smart irrigation controllers, sprinkler body replacements, or an irrigation audit. Please note the controller and sprinkler bodies are only eligible for replacement of older units.
An irrigation audit for a home lawn underground sprinkler system is a professional check to assess how evenly and efficiently water is distributed across the lawn (Figure 2). The audit involves inspecting the system while it's running, and measuring water output with catch cans, and identifying issues like leaks or misaligned sprinklers. To find out if your city received grant money for any of these items, check out the list below and visit the city website to see if you might qualify for a rebate.
Communities with Irrigation Controller Rebates
Anoka County
Carver County
Dakota County
Hennepin County
Ramsey County
Scott County
Washington County
Communities with Spray Sprinkler Body Rebates
Dakota County
Hennepin County
Ramsey County
Washington County
Communities with Irrigation Audit Rebates
Anoka County
Dakota County
Hennepin County
Ramsey County
Washington County
Carver County controller discount opportunity
Along with the rebate opportunity from the Metropolitan Council, there is also an opportunity to receive a discount on smart irrigation controllers in Carver County. The new Redeem program will be available starting this spring; check to determine your eligibility.
Conclusion
Although there are some upfront costs with the purchase of smart irrigation products, in the long term they will help homeowners save water, which in turn helps to lower your water bill. With the help of the rebates that are available, it can shorten the window on the return on investment, and help you conserve water in the process.
For all of your lawn care needs - including planting and growing, maintaining, and watering your lawn - visit the UMN Extension website for tips and resources.