In addition to having a good watering schedule and adjusting it as the Watering Index changes, it is important to periodically (at least monthly) turn on each irrigation valve to see how it is working. Look for sprinklers that are not popping up properly, shrubbery or grass that is interfering with the watering pattern, broken or clogged nozzles, sprinklers that are spraying sidewalks and driveways, etc.
If your water pressure is high, use pressure regulation devices to bring the sprinkler operating pressure down to the optimal pressure range specified by the manufacturer. Pressure that is too high causes the water exiting the sprinkler to turn to mist, which, can be blown away by even a gentle breeze.
Water in the early morning hours and when the air is still. Do not water in the afternoon, or much of your water will be lost to evaporation by the sun.
Watch for run-off. If you water for longer periods, water may run off and be wasted. Many controllers have a feature that allows for multiple start times so you can “cycle and soak”. Watering for shorter periods allows the water to soak in. To prevent run-off, multiple start times of shorter duration may be set before and/or after any time restrictions in your area. Avoiding runoff not only reduces your water use and improves the appearance of your landscape, but, equally important, it avoids runoff that carries pollutants into our storm drains and onto our beaches