A-14
October 2012
A.5 Office Complex Reduces Outdoor Water Use
In addition to installing new controllers, the landscape management firm initiated
routine maintenance and repairs to the irrigation system: replacing broken sprinkler
heads; positioning sprinkler heads to ensure adequate coverage; and installing
pressure regulating nozzles to increase the uniformity of water applied. Rain and
freeze sensors were also installed to prevent watering at unnecessary times.
After completing the new installations and repairs, Precision Landscape
Management continued comprehensive, monthly inspections of irrigation system
operation. The inspections consist of examining each sprinkler head to ensure it is
functioning properly, looking for leaks, checking the coverage, and verifying that the
scheduling technology is programmed properly.
Savings Summary
The Granite Park complex reduced irrigation water use by about 40 percent from the
irrigation system upgrades and improvements in operation. Figure A-4 displays the
outdoor monthly water usage before and after the irrigation system retrofit.
Figure A-4. Granite Park’s Monthly LandscapeWater Use
The Granite Park office complex saved nearly 12.5 million gallons of water and
$47,000 in 2009. Based on these savings, the project paid for itself in less than a year
and a half, and Granite Park earned credits toward its LEED Gold certification. Beyond
improving the bottom line and saving water, the resulting landscape is now both
healthier and more attractive.
Acknowledgements
EPA’s WaterSense program acknowledges Mr. Bruce Birdsong, President, Precision
Landscape Management, for providing information for this case study.
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Month
2008
2009
Water Use (gallons)
