Water Management

At Top Cut Lawn Services, we provide irrigation-related services such as installation, inspections, backflow testing, and more, utilizing the latest technology and environmentally friendly techniques designed to save you money and water.

Home / Page / Water Management

Water Management Service

The cost of water in southeastern Florida has been increasing due to several factors, such as aging infrastructure, the increasing population, saltwater intrusion into the freshwater aquifers, and stricter regulatory compliance, which has increased operational costs for water utilities in both municipalities and counties has led to higher water costs.

Intelligent irrigation programming, which involves using advanced technologies like weather-based controllers, soil moisture sensors, and smart sprinkler heads, can lead to significant water savings for commercial properties.

Potential water savings for commercial properties in southeastern Florida that implement intelligent irrigation programming can typically expect to save between 20-50% on their outdoor water use. In some cases, savings can be even higher, reaching up to 70% or more.

Since outdoor irrigation often accounts for a significant portion of a property’s total water use (up to 50% or more), a 20-50% reduction in irrigation water use can translate to a 10-25% reduction in overall water consumption.

For example, if a commercial property in southeastern Florida currently uses 1,000,000 gallons of water per month, with 50% (500,000 gallons) going towards outdoor irrigation, implementing intelligent irrigation programming could save between 100,000 to 250,000 gallons per month. This would represent a 10-25% reduction in the property’s total monthly water use.

It’s important to note that these are general estimates, and actual savings may vary. Factors such as the efficiency of the property’s current irrigation system, the level of overwatering before implementing smart technologies, and the specific intelligent irrigation solutions used can all impact the overall water savings achieved. Additionally, proper installation, programming, and maintenance of the intelligent irrigation system are crucial to maximizing water savings over time.

Complete irrigation-system evaluation
Water audits by certified irrigation auditors
Consulting, design and installation
Backflow testing, certification, installation and repair
System maintenance, troubleshooting and repair
Weather-based “smart” irrigation system technology
CLCA Certified Water Managers on staff
Stormwater management
Water conservation and efficiency services
Regulatory compliance and reporting
Emergency response and repair services
For new commercial developments, water infrastructure planning and development

Water management

Our Water Management team will ensure that your irrigation system is operating efficiently. We’ll suggest upgrades and help find rebates and incentives available for your property in Florida.

CLIA Certified Water Managers

The Certified Landscape Irrigation Audition (CLIA) program is the most widely recognized certification for water managers and irrigation professionals in Florida. We have on-staff water managers certified by CLIA who can help protect your investment in landscaping. By properly managing water on your site, we can work together to mitigate increasing water costs.

Irrigation system maintenance

Our team ensures efficient, effective water system operation, prioritizing safety and client service.

Landscape Maintenance - Ultimate Innovations - Honolulu, HI

Most Popular Questions

Does Florida offer rebates or incentives for water management?

Yes, various water management districts, counties, and municipalities in Florida offer rebates and incentives for implementing water conservation and efficiency measures, including those related to irrigation and landscaping. These programs aim to encourage residents, businesses, and organizations to reduce their water consumption and promote sustainable water management practices.

Here are a few examples of rebates and incentives available in Florida:

WaterSIP (Water Savings Incentive Program):

The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) offers this program to provide funding for water conservation projects, including the installation of high-efficiency irrigation systems, soil moisture sensors, and other water-saving technologies. The program is open to agricultural, commercial, and industrial users within the SFWMD’s jurisdiction. Download their PDF here.

Florida Water Star:

This is a voluntary certification program for new and existing homes and commercial developments that meet specific water efficiency criteria. Participating properties may be eligible for various incentives, such as reduced permit fees, expedited permitting, and marketing benefits.

Landscape Irrigation Design rebates:

Some local governments offer rebates for installing efficient irrigation systems, such as those with weather-based controllers, rain sensors, or drip irrigation. For example, the City of Boynton Beach offers up to $3,000 in rebates for installing water-efficient landscaping and irrigation systems.

Florida-Friendly Landscaping Incentives:

Many counties and municipalities offer incentives for properties that implement Florida-Friendly Landscaping (FFL) principles, which emphasize the use of native, drought-tolerant plants and water-efficient irrigation practices. These incentives may include reduced permit fees, grants, or awards.

Irrigation System Evaluation rebates:

Some utilities offer rebates for irrigation system evaluations conducted by certified professionals. These evaluations help identify opportunities for water savings and provide recommendations for improving irrigation efficiency.

It’s important to note that rebates and incentives can vary widely across different regions and jurisdictions in Florida. Commercial property owners and managers should check with their local water management district, county, and municipality to learn about specific programs and eligibility requirements in their area.

Does Palm Beach County offer Irrigation System Evaluation rebates?

Yes, Palm Beach County does offer Irrigation System Evaluation rebates through its Water Utilities Department. The program is called the “Irrigation System Evaluation Rebate Program” and it provides rebates to encourage property owners to improve the efficiency of their irrigation systems.

Here are the key details of the program:

1. Residential properties can receive a rebate of up to $150 for an irrigation system evaluation performed by a certified irrigation professional.

2. Non-residential properties (including commercial, industrial, and institutional properties) can receive a rebate of up to $300 for an irrigation system evaluation performed by a certified irrigation professional.

3. The evaluation must be conducted by a professional who is certified by the Irrigation Association (IA) as a Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor (CLIA), Certified Irrigation Contractor (CIC), or Certified Golf Irrigation Auditor (CGIA).

4. The property must be located within the Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department service area and must receive water service from the department.

5. The rebate is limited to one (1) per property per fiscal year (October 1 through September 30).

To apply for the rebate, property owners must submit a completed application form which you can download here or complete online at Utilityassistancepbc.org or call the Call Center at (833) 273-9455 to make an appointment at the office location. You must provide a copy of the irrigation system evaluation report and proof of payment to the Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department.

It’s worth noting that rebate programs can change over time, so it’s always a good idea to check with the Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department directly for the most current information on the Irrigation System Evaluation Rebate Program and any other available water conservation rebates or incentives.

What is Water Management, specifically for commercial properties in southeastern Florida?

Water management for commercial properties in southeastern Florida involves the efficient and sustainable use, conservation, and protection of water resources to meet the property’s needs while minimizing environmental impact and complying with local regulations. It encompasses a wide range of practices, technologies, and strategies aimed at optimizing water consumption, reducing waste, and ensuring the long-term availability and quality of water supplies.

Key aspects of water management for commercial properties in southeastern Florida include:

Irrigation management: Implementing efficient irrigation systems, such as weather-based controllers, soil moisture sensors, and drip irrigation, to reduce outdoor water consumption while maintaining healthy landscapes.

Indoor water efficiency: Installing water-efficient fixtures and appliances, such as low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads, to reduce indoor water use without compromising functionality or comfort.

Leak detection and repair: Regularly monitoring and maintaining water systems to identify and fix leaks promptly, preventing water loss and damage to the property.

Stormwater management: Implementing strategies to control and treat stormwater runoff, such as permeable pavement, green roofs, and bioretention systems, to reduce the property’s impact on local water bodies and prevent flooding.

Alternative water sources: Exploring the use of alternative water sources, such as rainwater harvesting, air conditioning condensate, or reclaimed water, to reduce reliance on potable water supplies for non-potable uses like irrigation or cooling tower makeup.

Water quality management: Ensuring that the property’s water systems meet local, state, and federal water quality standards through regular testing, treatment, and maintenance.

Water conservation planning: Developing and implementing a comprehensive water conservation plan that sets targets, identifies opportunities for improvement, and engages stakeholders in the efficient use of water resources.

Compliance with regulations: Staying informed about and complying with local water use restrictions, building codes, and other regulations related to water management in southeastern Florida.

Effective water management for commercial properties in southeastern Florida requires a proactive, data-driven approach that considers the unique characteristics of the property, its water uses, and the local environment.

By implementing best practices and technologies, commercial property owners and managers can reduce costs, mitigate risks, and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability while contributing to the long-term resilience of the region’s water resources.

What is weather-based “smart” irrigation technology?

“Smart” irrigation technology that is based on weather uses real-time weather data to determine the appropriate time and amount of water needed for plants.

This technology considers factors such as temperature, humidity, and precipitation and creates optimized watering schedules that minimize waste.

This system not only promotes healthier plant growth but also conserves water and reduces energy costs.

What is a water audit?

In southeastern Florida, a water audit is a comprehensive evaluation of a property’s water use designed to identify opportunities for water conservation, improve efficiency, and reduce waste. The audit process involves collecting and analyzing data on the property’s water consumption, assessing the performance of water-using systems and equipment, and providing recommendations for improvements.

A typical water audit for a commercial property in southeastern Florida may include the following steps:

Data collection: Gathering historical water use data, such as utility bills and meter readings, to establish a baseline and identify trends or anomalies in consumption.

Site inspection: Conduct a thorough on-site assessment of the property’s water-using systems, including plumbing fixtures, irrigation systems, cooling towers, and process equipment, to evaluate their condition, efficiency, and potential for leaks or waste.

Leak detection: Using various methods, such as visual inspections, dye tests, or acoustic leak detection equipment, to identify and locate leaks in the property’s water distribution system.

Flow measurements: Measuring the flow rates of water-using equipment and fixtures to determine their actual water consumption and compare it against industry benchmarks or efficiency standards.

Irrigation system evaluation: Assessing the performance of the property’s irrigation system, including sprinkler uniformity, precipitation rates, and scheduling, to identify opportunities for water savings and improved landscape health.

Water balance calculation: Develop a detailed water balance that accounts for all water inputs and outputs on the property, including potable water, reclaimed water, and alternative sources, as well as any water losses or unaccounted-for water.

Recommendations and reporting: Provide a comprehensive report that summarizes the findings of the audit, identifies specific opportunities for water conservation and efficiency improvements, and offers prioritized recommendations for implementation, along with estimates of potential water and cost savings.

Water audits in southeastern Florida may be conducted by various professionals, such as certified water managers, irrigation specialists, or engineering consultants. Some local water utilities and water management districts may offer free or discounted water audits as part of their conservation programs, while others may provide rebates or incentives for properties that undertake audits and implement recommended improvements.

By conducting regular water audits and acting on their recommendations, commercial properties in southeastern Florida can significantly reduce their water footprint, lower operating costs, and contribute to the sustainable management of the region’s limited water resources.

What are some ways to maximize the efficiency of an existing irrigation system?

There are several ways to maximize the efficiency of an existing irrigation system in southeastern Florida:

Install a smart irrigation controller: Replace traditional time-based controllers with weather-based or soil moisture sensor-based controllers that automatically adjust irrigation schedules based on real-time climate and landscape conditions, reducing overwatering and waste.

Conduct regular system maintenance: Perform routine inspections, cleaning, and repairs on irrigation system components, such as sprinkler heads, valves, and pipes, to ensure they are functioning properly and not leaking or clogged.

Implement hydrozoning: Group plants with similar water needs together and adjust irrigation zones accordingly, allowing for more precise watering and reducing overwatering of drought-tolerant plants.

Use efficient sprinkler heads: Replace older, inefficient sprinkler heads with high-efficiency models, such as rotating nozzles or pressure-compensating heads, that provide more uniform coverage and reduce overspray and runoff.

Adjust system pressure: Ensure that the irrigation system is operating at the optimal pressure range for the installed equipment, using pressure regulators or pressure-compensating devices as needed to prevent misting, fogging, or excessive flow rates.

Optimize irrigation scheduling: Adjust irrigation schedules to water deeply and infrequently, encouraging deeper root growth and reducing evaporation losses. Water early in the morning or late at night to minimize wind and heat effects.

Install rain sensors or soil moisture sensors: Use sensors to prevent the irrigation system from running during rainfall events or when soil moisture levels are sufficient, reducing unnecessary watering.

Use drip irrigation or micro-sprays for non-turf areas: Convert landscaped beds, shrubs, and trees to drip irrigation or micro-spray systems, which apply water directly to the root zone and minimize evaporation and overspray.

Incorporate alternative water sources: Connect the irrigation system to alternative water sources, such as rainwater harvesting tanks or air conditioning condensate, to reduce reliance on potable water for irrigation.

Regularly audit and monitor the system: Conduct periodic irrigation system audits to assess performance, identify inefficiencies, and make data-driven adjustments. Monitor water use through submetering or smart metering to track consumption and detect leaks or anomalies.

By implementing these strategies, commercial landscaping properties in southeastern Florida can significantly improve the efficiency of their existing irrigation systems, reducing water waste, lowering operating costs, and promoting healthier, more sustainable landscapes.

It’s also important to work with qualified irrigation professionals, such as certified irrigation designers or auditors, to ensure that efficiency upgrades are properly designed, installed, and maintained for optimal performance.

Areas of Expertise

Residential

HOAs, Master Planned Communities, Multi-Family Residential, Military Housing

Office

Commercial offices, Corporate Campuses, Industrial Facilities, Creative Office Spaces

Medical

Hospitals, Medical Centers, Rehabilitation, MOBs, Acute Care Centers

Education

Colleges, Universities, K-12 Schools

Recreation

Parks and Civic Spaces, Golf Courses, Museums, Theme Parks Complexes and Fields

Retail

Retail and Lifestyle Centers, Shopping Malls, Mixed Use Developments

Hospitality

Hotels, Destination Resorts, Country Clubs, Theme Parks

religion

Places of Worship, Cemeteries

Areas of Service

The counties highlighted in green represent the service areas for Top Cut Lawn Services.