Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor

Which of the following is not a benefit of effective irrigation auditing?

1. Enhanced plant health

2. Increased water conservation

3. Higher energy costs

4. Better system performance

The correct answer is: Higher energy costs

Effective irrigation auditing offers numerous benefits to landscape management, including enhanced plant health, increased water conservation, and better system performance. The primary goal of irrigation auditing is to assess and optimize the efficiency of irrigation systems. This process typically leads to improved plant health by ensuring that plants receive the right amount of water without over-irrigation, which can cause root rot and other water-related issues. Additionally, when irrigation systems are audited and adjusted appropriately, they can significantly reduce water waste. This conservation not only benefits the environment but also lowers costs associated with water usage. Furthermore, an efficient irrigation system performs better by delivering water more uniformly and effectively, ensuring that all areas of the landscape receive adequate moisture. In contrast, higher energy costs are not a benefit of effective irrigation auditing; rather, they are typically a consequence of inefficient irrigation practices. An effective audit aims to mitigate unnecessary energy expenses associated with running irrigation systems by enhancing their overall efficiency, thereby actually reducing energy costs in many cases.