Denver Water releases music video to promote efficient summer watering practices

DENVER — Denver's annual summer watering rules begin Wednesday.

Denver Water is helping the community brush up on the rules and restrictions with a new music video.

"I Water That Way," a loving parody of the Backstreet Boys' "I Want It That Way," was released Tuesday.

Denver Water’s summer watering rules last from May 1 until Oct. 1. Denver Water said the summer rules incorporate best practices for efficient outdoor water use that will also keep your landscape healthy.

Denver summer watering rules

• Water during cooler times of the day — lawn watering is NOT allowed between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

• Water two days per week, adding a third day only when needed. (Watering more than three days is not allowed.)

• Do not allow water to pool in gutters, streets and alleys.

• Do not waste water by letting it spray on concrete and asphalt.

• Repair leaking sprinkler systems within 10 days.

• Do not irrigate while it is raining or during high winds.

• Use a hose nozzle with a shut-off valve when washing your car.

When should I turn on the sprinklers?

As the grass begins to turn green across Colorado, many are wondering when is the best time to turn on a sprinkler system for the summer season.

Denver Water recommends waiting until after the last freeze, typically around May 5, to turn on your sprinkler system.

According to Denver Water, Colorado will likely have at least one more night of temperatures below 30 degrees, which can damage automatic sprinkler pipes above or below ground leading to costly repairs and wasted water.

Denver Water recommends keeping the sprinklers off for a bit longer. That does not mean it’s too early to water at all.

During warm, dry periods, Denver Water recommends rolling out the garden hose and a hand nozzle and hand-watering trees, perennials and late-fall plantings.

If your lawn has brown spots, use water efficiently by hydrating the distressed areas instead of the entire lawn. Just don’t forget to disconnect the hose from the spigot in case freezing weather moves in.

If you are concerned about your soil’s moisture, check it by inserting a screwdriver into the ground; if it goes in easily, it’s got enough water.

How do I turn on my sprinklers?

Whenever you decide to turn on the sprinkler system this spring, here's how to get started:

Step 1: Irrigation Box

The first step is to locate your irrigation box. It's usually outside, in the front of your house.

Open it up and look for the drain valve. Turn it off by turning the valve to the right. Cover box back up.

Step 2: Back flow preventer

Now, go to your back flow preventer to keep the water from your sprinkler system from going back into the drinking water inside your house.

Look for your ports. It's the area where the sprinkler company blows out excess water in the fall.

You will need a flathead screwdriver. Turn a quarter of a turn so they are against the pipe, which means they are closed. Make sure they are not parallel to the pipe.

Now open your ball valves. Turn the handles to the left so they are parallel to the pipe.

Step 3: Style ball valve

Locate your style ball valve. It is usually in your basement.

Tighten your port before you turn your water back on or you will have water gushing into your basement.

Open your water valve by turning it right so it is parallel to the pipe.

Step 4: Sprinkler system controller

This is usually located in your garage.

Each system is different so find directions or go online to find an owner's manual to set your sprinkler system.

If you don't feel comfortable turning it back on yourself, be sure to contact a professional.