Buy a rain gauge and use it to determine how much rain your yard has received. Most of the year, lawns only need one inch of water per week. Plant it smart. Xeriscape landscaping is a great way to design, install and maintain both your plants and irrigation system. More importantly, it will save time, money and water.
Water lawns during the early morning hours, when temperatures and wind speed are the lowest.
This reduces losses from evaporation. Don't allow sprinklers to water your street, driveway or sidewalk. Position them so water lands on the lawn and shrubs, and not on paved areas. Install irrigation devices that are the most water efficient for each use. Micro and drip irrigation and soaker hoses are examples of water efficient irrigation methods.