Golf Course Water Savings: How Clubhouses and Irrigation Systems Qualify for Smart Valve™
Golf courses use water in two distinct systems: irrigation (fairways, greens, rough) and the clubhouse/pro shop/restaurant. Smart Valve™ applies to the clubhouse and municipal-metered systems — here's how to identify whether your course qualifies.
The Two Water Systems on a Golf Course
Golf courses have two fundamentally different water systems, and it's important to understand which one qualifies for Smart Valve™:
1. Irrigation system — fairways, greens, rough
Typically fed by a well, retention pond, or reclaimed water source. This system is NOT metered by the municipal utility in most cases, and Smart Valve™ does not apply to non-metered systems.
2. Clubhouse/facility system — the qualifying system ✓
The main building supply line serving the clubhouse, pro shop, restaurant, locker rooms, and maintenance facilities. This IS typically metered by the municipal utility, and Smart Valve™ applies here.
What Qualifies
A golf course qualifies for Smart Valve™ installation if:
- →The clubhouse and facility buildings are served by a municipal water meter
- →The monthly water bill for the facility is $1,500 or more
- →The main supply line is accessible for installation (not in-slab or otherwise blocked)
The Savings Opportunity
A full-service golf club with a restaurant, banquet facilities, and locker rooms can spend $3,000–$15,000/month on water and sewer for the clubhouse system alone. An illustrative 20% gross eligible volumetric reduction on $8,000/month is $19,200/year; actual results vary by site. A written performance agreement, when applicable to a qualifying site, addresses gross eligible volumetric reduction rather than net take-home. For more on golf course-specific water use and ROI analysis, visit the Golf Courses industry page.
Drought and Rate Pressure
Golf courses are under increasing regulatory pressure in drought-affected markets. In California, Arizona, Nevada, and Texas, golf courses face mandatory water use restrictions. Reducing consumption on the metered clubhouse system demonstrates conservation compliance and reduces the overall water footprint of the facility — something regulators and the public increasingly scrutinize. Relevant state pages:
You Might Also Like
Find Out if Your Course Qualifies
We'll review your clubhouse water bills and confirm qualification in under 48 hours. Free assessment, no obligation.
Request My Free Assessment