Prepping your In Ground Sprinkler System for Spring

Spring has just arrived and the temperatures are already starting to warm up here in Burlington. Before you know it, the summer heat will be upon us. To prepare your lawn and garden for another hot summer, we've compiled a list of tips on how to get your sprinkler system ready this spring.

Check The Soil

While the weather may have warmed up considerably this week, it's always best to check that your soil is not frozen beneath the surface. Before filling the pipes and starting your in ground sprinkler system for the first time this season, use a shovel or garden spade to make sure the ground is not frozen. We recommend going down 12 inches beneath the surface to ensure your soil is frost-free.

Release Pressure in Pipes

A common mistake that people make with their irrigation systems in the spring is simply turning on the water and hoping it works just like it did last season. But when you're starting your sprinkler system for the first time in months, it's going to need time to adjust. If you crank the water while starting up your sprinkler, a sudden surge of air pressure can flow through your empty pipes and potentially cause damage to your system.

If your sprinkler system does not have air pressure release valves or drains, be sure to remove the sprinkler heads at the highest point in your system. Doing this will release any of the trapped air in the pipes. Once the air has escaped from the system, you're ready to start filling the pipes with water.

Filling The Pipes

Start filling the pipes by slowly opening the shut off valve on the main line of your irrigation system. Once the main line is filled with water, continue by slowly filling each zone by manually opening the zone valves.

Once all zones are filled and all air bubbles have been pushed out of the pipes, close the zone valves. Once the water is shut off, close the air relief valves or replace the sprinkler heads you previously removed.

Perform a Test Run

Once you have filled the entire in ground sprinkler system, run each zone for approximately two minutes. This "test run" allows you to check your automatic timer while also ensuring that your sprinkler heads are spraying properly. Once everything seems to be operating correctly, open the main supply valve fully. The start-up process is also a good time to replace the batteries in your automatic controller to ensure you maintain your timer settings throughout the season.

Set Up Help

Setting up your in ground sprinkler system can take some time and patience. If you don't follow the proper procedures, you run the risk of damaging your system, which can cost you both time and money. To avoid damaging your in ground sprinkler system during your spring start up, why not have our experienced in ground sprinkler system professionals do it for you. Our team of friendly and knowledgeable staff will have your system set up in no time, giving you all the advantages of a smooth-running sprinkler system without any of the hassle. They can also program your system to ensure you are using water effectively.

To learn more about setting up your irrigation system, or to schedule your set up and system programming with our team of professionals, contact us today!