In the sunny Okanagan, your lawn and garden work hard all summer long. But without the right plumbing practices, you could be wasting water, damaging pipes, or even inviting costly repairs. These smart summer watering tips will help you get the most from every drop—while protecting your home’s plumbing.
1. Inspect Outdoor Hose Bibs and Taps
Winter can crack outdoor taps, even if you drained hoses properly. Before turning them on full blast, give them a once-over.
What to do:
- Check for drips or water pooling near the foundation
- Tighten fittings and replace washers if needed
- If the faucet leaks while shut off, you may need a full replacement
Link: Learn more about leak detection
2. Use Backflow Prevention Devices
If your hose is submerged in a kiddie pool or garden bucket, backflow can send contaminants into your home’s clean water supply.
What to do:
- Install a backflow prevention valve on outdoor faucets
- Have your backflow system tested annually
3. Choose Efficient Irrigation Systems
Manual watering with a hose can lead to overwatering and run-off. Drip irrigation or smart sprinkler systems help reduce waste.
Tips for irrigation upgrades:
- Water early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation
- Consider moisture sensors that only water when the soil is dry
- Zone your irrigation for lawn versus garden beds
4. Check for Leaks in Underground Lines
Soggy patches or dips in your lawn could signal a leak in buried irrigation lines.
What to do:
- Monitor water bills for unexplained spikes
- Schedule a plumbing inspection if you notice water pooling or lawn damage
Link: Book leak detection service
5. Watch Out for Hard Water Buildup
Hard water can leave mineral deposits that clog sprinkler heads or corrode hose bibs.
What to do:
- Clean nozzles regularly
- Consider a water softening or filtration system
Smart Watering FAQs
Most Okanagan lawns need 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. Overwatering wastes water and can encourage shallow root growth.
Water early morning to reduce evaporation and give roots time to absorb moisture before peak heat.
DIY is possible for basic systems, but licensed plumbers ensure proper installation, code compliance, and prevent cross-contamination.
Signs include soggy areas, higher water bills, or inconsistent sprinkler pressure. Leak detection services can confirm the issue.
Need Help With Outdoor Plumbing?
Vision Plumbing Heating Cooling provides expert outdoor plumbing inspections, irrigation hookups, backflow testing, and leak repairs for homes across Kelowna, West Kelowna, Peachland, and Summerland.
Contact us today to keep your lawn healthy and your plumbing protected.
