California American Water Reminds Customers to Turn Down Their Sprinklers When They Turn Back Their Clocks

SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As the end of daylight savings coincides with the start of the rainy season and the continued severe drought, California American Water recommends that customers reduce or eliminate outdoor irrigation especially during this winter season. By reducing irrigation in the winter and shutting off sprinklers during rainy periods, customers can save water and money while maintaining healthy landscaping.

“Due to the continued drought, it is vital that we use water intelligently throughout the winter,” said Patrick Pilz, California American Water Conservation Manager. “Running sprinklers while it is raining is not smart.”

Limiting outdoor water usage during the winter is not only one of the best ways to conserve water; it also helps maintain water supply as the drought continues.

Overwatering can be more damaging to plants than drought. Landscaping experts estimate that 90 percent of plants die from too much water. Soggy soil can prevent nutrients and air from reaching plant roots, inviting unwanted diseases such as root rot.

“With our busy lives and the holidays around the corner, it’s easy for people to forget their sprinkler systems may still be on a summer watering schedule,” Pilz said. “That’s why we’re encouraging customers to monitor their home irrigation systems and make sure they’re not double dosing their properties with water. It’s a waste of money, water and can damage landscaping.”

If there is a long break between rainy days, California American Water recommends manually watering landscapes with a hose equipped with a low-flow hose nozzle. One way to test if a garden needs watering is by pushing a screwdriver into the ground. If it goes in easily, the soil is moist and the landscaping doesn't need water. Another way to conserve is by watering in the early morning. Moisture typically evaporates more slowly during the cooler morning hours than during the afternoon when temperatures are usually higher.

California American Water provides a variety of conservation services and rebates, including waterwise home surveys, turf replacement rebates and rebates for weather based irrigation timers to help customers use water efficiently. Customers can visit our website or contact their local office for more information.

California American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), provides high quality and reliable water and/or wastewater service to approximately 600,000 people.

Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs approximately 6,700 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to an estimated 14 million people in more than 30 states, as well as parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.californiaamwater.com.