How long should I run my sprinklers?

This depends on the time of year and the type of heads, or emitters, on your system. In Horseshoe Bay, it is necessary to irrigate during the eight months from March 1 to November 1. You may shut down over the winter. You will irrigate for shorter times in the spring and early fall because of lower temperatures and wetter weather.

The chart below contains approximate run times in minutes which should work for most lawns in full sun with two cycles per week. These times may not work for all landscapes depending on soil or other site conditions, so you should remain ready to make adjustments by adding or subtracting minutes based on your own judgment.

Head Type

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

Sprays (minutes)

7

9

11

14

17

17

12

7

Rotary (minutes) 

12

15

20

26

32

32

25

12

Drip (minutes) 

10

13

16

21

25

25

20

10

 

Beds with drought-tolerant plants or turf or beds in shaded areas should be able to run with times set 10 percent less than shown on this chart.

Show All Answers

1. How do I shutoff a leaking irrigation system?
2. How long should I run my sprinklers?
3. What days can I water my lawn?
4. What is a backflow prevention assembly and what is this I hear about testing?
5. What is TCEQ?
6. Who should I allow to install or maintain my irrigation system?