Did you know irrigation water can cost less than the water you use in the house? Your house meter carries sewer and reclamation fees, because that water goes down the drain. Water that goes through a separate irrigation meter (sometimes called a deduct or secondary meter) usually doesn’t carry those fees, because it soaks into the ground instead.
What That Means For You
If you have an irrigation system on its own meter, use it to water everything you can. It’s cheaper than running a hose from the house. If you don’t have an irrigation system and find yourself using a lot of water to keep plants green all summer, the savings are worth a look.
Check With Your Water Utility
Rates and rules for irrigation meters vary by city and water provider, including whether a separate meter is allowed, what it costs to install, and how it’s billed. Call your utility before you plan around it. We’re happy to help you figure out what applies at your address.
Water Smarter, Not Just Cheaper
- Water early. Running zones before sunrise cuts evaporation and keeps leaves dry, which reduces disease.
- Water deeply and less often. Central Illinois clay soil takes water slowly. Cycle-and-soak schedules prevent runoff; see our guide to irrigation on clay soil.
- Let the weather help. A smart controller skips watering after rain and adjusts to the season.
- Keep it tuned up. A broken head or leak can waste thousands of gallons; here’s how to spot irrigation leaks.
Thinking about a system? See what goes into irrigation system cost or learn about our irrigation installation and service.
Rather have a pro handle it? F&W has provided irrigation systems for Bloomington-Normal, Peoria, and Champaign-Urbana, Illinois properties since 1989. Call (309) 664-2666 or request a free quote.