10 Spring Preparation Tips for your Sprinkler System

Proper “de-winterization” of your sprinkler system is vital to prevent costly damage and ensure efficient watering. Wait until the threat of frost has completely passed in your area before turning on your system.

Here is a checklist for preparing your sprinkler system when spring begins.

• Before starting, ensure the ground is no longer frozen. Dig about a foot into the soil in an inconspicuous area; if you hit frozen ground, wait a week or two. Starting the system on frozen ground can lead to broken water lines.

• Check all sprinkler heads for damage (cracks, clogs, missing parts) that may have occurred over winter. Replace or repair as needed.
• Clear away any dirt, debris, or overgrown vegetation that might be obstructing the sprinkler heads. An old toothbrush can be useful for cleaning nozzles.

• This is a critical step. Open the main water valve to your sprinkler system very slowly. Opening it too quickly can cause a “water hammer” effect, a surge of pressure that can crack pipes, break valves, or even send sprinkler heads flying.
• Listen for the water flowing and gradually open the valve over several minutes until it’s fully open. If your system has multiple branch lines, repeat this slow process for each branch’s main valve.

• If you opened your lines to drain them in the fall, ensure they are now closed (except for the last sprinkler head on each zone, which you can leave open to allow air and debris to flush out).
• Once water is flowing clear, close the valves and reattach the nozzles.

• Confirm that your water pressure is within the ideal range (typically 40 to 65 psi for lawn irrigation). Low pressure can indicate a leak or other issue.

• Turn on each irrigation zone individually from your control panel.
• Observe each sprinkler head in the zone to ensure it’s popping up correctly, spraying evenly, and reaching the intended area.
• Look for any dry spots, soggy areas, or unexplained hissing sounds, which could indicate leaks, clogs, or broken components.
• Adjust sprinkler head nozzles to ensure proper spray patterns and coverage. There are often markings on the nozzles to help with direction.

• Check for any leaks in valves or backflow preventers. Leaky valves can waste a significant amount of water.
• Ensure any insulation on above-ground backflow preventers and valves is still in place and in good condition.

• If your system has a rain sensor, ensure it’s operating correctly to prevent unnecessary watering during rainfall.

• Adjust your irrigation controller’s settings (time, date, run times, zoning) to reflect the warmer spring weather and the specific needs of your landscape. Consider adapting your watering schedule as the season progresses, watering deeply and less often to promote healthy root growth.

• Ensure your sprinkler system drains properly, directing water away from walkways, entrances, and parking lots to prevent standing water, which can be a tripping hazard and attract insects.