Before Denver’s summer heat kicks into high gear, it’s worth giving your sprinkler system a quick audit, as a small issue can quietly waste thousands of gallons of water and send your bill soaring. With lower-than-average snowfall contributing to ongoing drought conditions, Denver-area residents were put under seasonal watering rules this spring, so checking your system isn’t just smart, it’s necessary. (And, keep a careful eye on current drought levels and watering guidelines at DenverWater.org.)

“A lot of people turn on their sprinklers in the spring and then forget to take a look at what they are actually doing throughout the summer,” says Jeff Tejra at, former water efficiency manager at Denver Water. A quick monthly visual inspection can catch common issues like broken or sunken sprinkler heads, misaligned spray hitting sidewalks, or zones running too long—all easy fixes that prevent major water waste.

Start simple: walk your yard while each zone runs. Look for pooling water, sputtering heads, or dry patches. According to the Fort Collins-Loveland Water District, leaks and overwatering are among the most common (and preventable) problems. Testing zones individually and watching for standing water can help you dial in the right schedule.

Efficiency matters, too. Experts often recommend a “cycle-and-soak” approach (shorter watering bursts spaced out over time) to help water absorb into Colorado’s clay-heavy soil rather than run off.

For a deeper dive, programs like Resource Central offer Slow the Flow sprinkler evaluations, where technicians inspect your system and create a customized watering plan. Many residents in participating districts qualify for free on-site assessments. You can sign up for the waitlist at ResourceCentral.org/sprinklers.

Bottom line: a quick sprinkler check now can save water, money, and your lawn…all summer long.