Checking the performance of your sprinkler system in the spring ensures that it is fully operational and optimized right from the start of the season.
To get the most from your irrigation system, we offer a spring startup to make sure your sprinkler system is running on all cylinders. We’ll come out and activate every zone and adjust every sprinkler head to make sure they are operating at full capacity in order to meet your watering needs.
If you decide to attempt to start up the irrigation system yourself, please refer to this checklist for important steps to follow.
- Before turning on any water to the system, make sure all manual drain valves are returned to the “closed” position.
- Open the system main water valve slowly to allow pipes to fill with water gradually. If these valves are opened too quickly, sprinkler main lines are subjected to high surge pressures, uncontrolled flow and water hammer.
- Verify the proper operation of each zone valve by manually activating it from the controller.
- Walk through each station on the controller, checking for proper operation of the zone. Check for proper operating pressure (low pressure indicates a line break or missing sprinkler), proper rotation and adjustment of sprinkler heads, and adequate coverage. Check and clean filters on poorly performing sprinklers. Adjust heads to grade as necessary.
- Reprogram the controller for automatic watering. Replace the controller back-up battery if necessary.
- Uncover and clean the system rain sensor, if applicable.
- Finish and clean any in-line filters for drip irrigation zones.