As the North Texas weather warms up, it’s time to bring your irrigation system out of hibernation. Starting up your sprinklers the right way protects your system, saves water, and keeps your lawn green all season. Here’s a simple checklist to follow.
1. Inspect Before You Turn It On
Walk your yard and look for exposed or damaged sprinkler heads, especially after winter freezes and any landscaping work. Clear away mulch, soil, or grass that may have grown over heads during the off season.
2. Slowly Charge the System
When turning the water back on, do it slowly. A sudden surge of pressure, known as water hammer, can damage pipes and fittings. Open the main valve gradually to let the lines fill.
3. Run Each Zone
Cycle through every zone one at a time and watch it run. Look for:
- Heads that don’t pop up or spray weakly
- Broken or misaligned heads spraying the sidewalk or house
- Soggy spots that may indicate a leak
- Dry areas that signal a coverage problem
4. Check Your Controller
Replace the backup battery, verify the date and time, and update your watering schedule for spring. Remember that North Texas water restrictions often limit watering days, set your controller accordingly.
5. Test the Rain Sensor
If your system has rain and freeze sensors, make sure they’re working so you’re not watering during a downpour or a freeze and wasting water.
Not sure where to start, or found a problem you can’t fix? Contact us for a professional spring start up and inspection. We’ll get your system dialed in for the season.