Spring Has Sprung! How to Turn Sprinklers Back on After

The last frost has officially kissed the ground goodbye, and your lawn is starting to yawn awake. It’s that magical time of year when we can finally shed those winter layers and embrace the warmer weather. But before you can enjoy that lush, green carpet, there’s a crucial step to tackle: getting your irrigation system ready for action.

Turning your sprinklers back on after a long, cold winter isn’t just about convenience; it’s about ensuring your system is functioning correctly, preventing costly damage, and giving your landscape the hydration it craves. Skipping this vital step can lead to leaks, broken pipes, or uneven watering, all of which can be a headache and an expense you don’t need.

So, let’s get down to business! We’ll guide you through the process, step-by-step, so you can confidently bring your sprinkler system back to life and prepare your yard for a vibrant growing season.

Springing Your Sprinkler System Back to Life: A Comprehensive Guide

As the snow melts and the first brave crocuses push through the soil, it’s a clear signal that winter is on its way out and spring is ready to take center stage. For homeowners with an established irrigation system, this is the cue to begin the important process of bringing your sprinklers back online. This isn’t a task to rush; thorough preparation ensures your system runs efficiently throughout the warmer months and avoids potential damage that can be caused by a hasty startup.

We’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from the initial visual inspection to the final system test. By following these steps, you can confidently transition your sprinklers from their winter slumber to active service, ensuring your lawn and garden receive the water they need to thrive.

Phase 1: Pre-Startup Preparations – the Essential Checks

Before you even think about turning on the water, a careful inspection is paramount. This stage is all about identifying any potential issues that may have arisen during the winter months. Think of it as a health check for your sprinkler system.

1. Visual Inspection of the Entire System

Walk through your yard and meticulously examine every visible component of your sprinkler system. This includes: (See Also: how to increase water pressure for sprinklers)

• Sprinkler Heads: Look for any signs of damage. This could include cracks, breaks, or heads that are out of alignment. Winter’s freeze-thaw cycles can be brutal, and sometimes heads can be shifted or even shattered by heaving soil or ice formation. Ensure they are clean and free of debris.
• Pipes and Risers: Check for any visible cracks, leaks, or areas where the ground may have shifted significantly, potentially stressing the underground pipes. Pay close attention to areas where pipes emerge from the ground.
• Valves: Locate your main shut-off valve and any zone control valves. Ensure they are accessible and appear to be in good condition. Look for any obvious corrosion or leaks around the valve boxes.
• Backflow Preventer: If you have one, inspect it for any signs of damage or leaks. This device is crucial for preventing irrigation water from contaminating your home’s potable water supply.
• Controller/Timer: Head to your sprinkler system’s control unit. Check for any obvious damage, loose wires, or signs of moisture. Ensure it’s protected from the elements.

2. Checking the Main Water Supply Valve

Your main water supply valve is the gateway for water to enter your sprinkler system. It’s usually located in your basement, garage, or an outdoor utility box.

1. Locate the Valve: If you’re unsure where it is, consult your home’s plumbing diagrams or a professional.
2. Ensure it’s Fully Closed: Before proceeding, confirm that this valve is completely shut off. This is critical for the next steps.
3. Inspect for Leaks: While it’s closed, briefly turn on the main water supply to your house and check the valve itself for any drips or leaks. If you find any, this valve will need to be repaired or replaced before you can safely turn on your sprinklers.

3. Clearing Debris From Valve Boxes and Sprinkler Heads

Winter often brings a buildup of leaves, dirt, and other debris. These can clog your system and prevent proper operation.

• Valve Boxes: Carefully open each valve box. Remove any accumulated leaves, mud, or other obstructions. This ensures the valves can operate freely.
• Sprinkler Heads: Gently remove any debris that might be lodged in or around the sprinkler heads. A small brush or a damp cloth usually does the trick. For heads that have been covered by soil, carefully excavate around them.

Phase 2: The Startup Procedure – Bringing the System to Life

With your pre-startup checks complete, it’s time to introduce water back into the system. This phase requires a methodical approach to minimize the risk of water hammer and undetected leaks.

1. Slowly Reintroduce Water to the System

This is arguably the most critical step. You want to fill the pipes gradually to avoid sudden pressure surges.

1. Open the Main Water Supply Valve SLOWLY: Go back to your main water supply valve. Turn it only a quarter of the way open. Listen carefully for the sound of water entering the pipes.
2. Listen for Leaks: Walk around your property, paying close attention to any unusual sounds like hissing or spraying, which could indicate a leak. Check all visible pipes and valve boxes.
3. Gradually Open Further: If you don’t hear any immediate leaks, slowly open the main valve another quarter. Continue this process, opening the valve incrementally, and listening for issues at each stage.
4. Fully Open: Once the valve is fully open and you haven’t detected any major leaks, you can proceed.

2. Checking for Leaks and Water Pressure Issues

Even with a slow introduction of water, small leaks can sometimes manifest. Keep your eyes and ears open.

• Visible Leaks: Re-inspect all accessible pipes, fittings, and valve boxes for any signs of water escaping. Even a small drip can worsen over time.
• Water Pressure: If your system has a pressure gauge, monitor it. A significantly low or high reading could indicate a problem, such as a partially blocked main line or a faulty pressure regulator.
• Soft Spots in the Lawn: Unexplained soggy or unusually green patches of lawn can be a sign of an underground leak.

3. Testing Each Zone

Now it’s time to activate your sprinkler zones one by one to ensure they are functioning as they should. (See Also: how to adjust rainbird sprinklers)

1. Manual Zone Activation: Go to your sprinkler controller. Most controllers have a manual function that allows you to run each zone individually.
2. Start with Zone 1: Manually activate the first zone.
3. Observe Sprinkler Heads: Watch each sprinkler head in that zone as it pops up and begins to water.
4. Check for Coverage: Ensure the water is spraying evenly and reaching the intended areas. Look for any heads that are not popping up, are spraying weakly, or are spraying in the wrong direction.
5. Inspect for Leaks within the Zone: While the zone is running, check for any leaks around the heads or at the base where the risers connect to the pipes.
6. Cycle Through All Zones: Repeat this process for every zone in your system.

Phase 3: Fine-Tuning and Programming – Optimizing Your System

Once you’ve confirmed that all zones are operational and free of leaks, you can fine-tune your system’s settings for optimal performance throughout the spring and summer.

1. Adjusting Sprinkler Heads

Sprinkler heads can get knocked out of alignment during winter or may need adjustment for optimal coverage as plants grow and change.

• Nozzle Direction: If a head is spraying water onto sidewalks, driveways, or buildings, adjust its nozzle direction. Most nozzles can be manually twisted or have a screw to change the spray pattern.
• Spray Arc: Ensure the arc of the spray is set correctly to cover the desired area without overspray.
• Pop-Up Height: If grass or debris is preventing a head from popping up fully, you may need to adjust its riser height or clear the obstruction.
• Flush Clogged Heads: If a head is spraying poorly, it might be clogged. Some heads can be unscrewed to allow for better access to flush out debris.

2. Reprogramming the Controller/timer

Your watering needs will change as the seasons progress. It’s essential to update your controller’s schedule accordingly.

• Resetting the Clock: Ensure the controller’s clock is set to the correct time and date.
• Programming Watering Days: Select the days of the week you want your sprinklers to run. Consider your local watering restrictions.
• Setting Start Times: Program your start times. Early morning is generally the best time to water to minimize evaporation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
• Adjusting Run Times: Determine the appropriate run time for each zone. This will vary based on your soil type, plant needs, and local weather. It’s better to water deeply and less frequently than shallowly and often.
• Rain Sensor Check: If you have a rain sensor, ensure it’s functioning correctly. Test it by wetting the sensor with a hose and verifying that it signals the controller to skip watering.

3. Understanding Watering Needs for Different Zones

Not all areas of your yard have the same watering requirements. Your controller allows you to customize settings for each zone.

• Sun vs. Shade: Areas that receive full sun will generally require more water than shaded areas.
• Plant Types: Lawns, flower beds, vegetable gardens, and shrubs all have different watering needs. Group similar plants together in zones where possible.
• Soil Type: Sandy soils drain quickly and may need more frequent watering, while clay soils retain moisture longer and may require less frequent, but deeper, watering.

Phase 4: Ongoing Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Getting your sprinklers back online is just the beginning. Regular checks and prompt attention to issues will keep your system running smoothly.

1. Regular System Checks

Make it a habit to periodically walk around your property and observe your sprinklers in action. (See Also: how to winterize sprinklers)

• Weekly Visual Scan: A quick visual check once a week can help you catch minor issues before they become major problems.
• Seasonal Adjustments: As the weather heats up, you may need to increase watering times or frequency. Conversely, during cooler, wetter periods, you might reduce them.

2. Common Sprinkler Problems and Solutions

Even with careful maintenance, you might encounter some common issues:

3. When to Call a Professional

While many of these steps can be handled by a diligent homeowner, there are times when professional help is advisable.

• Major Leaks: If you discover significant underground leaks or burst pipes, it’s best to call a professional to avoid further damage.
• Complex Controller Issues: If your controller is malfunctioning and you’re unsure of the cause, a sprinkler technician can diagnose and repair it.
• Low Water Pressure Across the System: Persistent low pressure throughout your system could indicate a larger issue with your main water line or the system’s design.
• Uncertainty or Lack of Confidence: If at any point you feel uncomfortable or unsure about a step, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified irrigation specialist. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

By following these comprehensive steps, you can ensure your sprinkler system is ready to provide your landscape with the essential hydration it needs to flourish throughout the spring and summer months. Happy watering!

Conclusion

Turning your sprinklers back on after winter is a multi-step process that requires patience and attention to detail. From thorough visual inspections and careful reintroduction of water to testing each zone and fine-tuning your controller, each phase is crucial for a healthy and efficient irrigation system. Don’t hesitate to address any leaks or issues promptly, and remember that calling a professional is always a wise option when faced with complex problems.

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