Spring Start-Up Checklist
- Open the system main water valve slowly to allow pipes to fill with water gradually. ...
- Verify the proper operation of each station valve by manually activating all zones from the controller.
- Walk through each station on the controller, checking for proper operation of the zone. ...
- Reprogram the controller for automatic watering. ...
How do you manually turn on a sprinkler?
Manually open the valve by turning the bleed screw counterclockwise 1/2 turn. How to turn on sprinkler system manually. If your sprinkler timer has failed, or there is an issue with the wiring, it is still possible to turn on the sprinkler zone manually, by opening the valve with your hands.
When should I Turn my sprinklers back on?
- We have access to the water turn on and valve boxes
- Dogs are secured (If applicable)
- No locked gates where we need to access your sprinkler system
- Access to your sprinkler controller/timer to test and program.
How to turn your sprinkler system on?
- Protect from freezing the system
- how to drain water in sprinkler system
- Drain Using air compressor
What is the best time to turn on lawn sprinklers?
What is the Best Time to Turn on Lawn Sprinklers?
- System Setup. Sprinkler systems are activated in different parts of the country depending on the area's last frost date and projected spring and summer weather.
- Scheduled Watering. Good watering depends on consistency. ...
- Timing. ...
- Effective Sprinkler Use. ...
How do you restart a sprinkler system in the spring?
0:254:46Starting Up Your Sprinklers in the Spring - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTurn on that water and charge it up to our backflow preventer. So now that we've got all drainsMoreTurn on that water and charge it up to our backflow preventer. So now that we've got all drains closed on the outside. And the ball valves on the backflow preventor shutoff. We've come back inside.
How do I turn my sprinkler system back on after winter?
Steps to turn on sprinkler system after winteringFind system's main shut-off valve. ... Find the vacuum breaker. ... Close the vacuum breaker test valves. ... Open the vacuum breaker's shut-off valves. ... Reinstall main valve bleeder cap (as needed). ... Slowly open the main valve. ... Test the system. ... Recheck the vacuum breaker and valves.More items...•
How do I manually turn on my sprinkler system?
0:355:19How to Turn on Sprinklers Manually + Business Talk - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd these are all manual valves down inside here you see this little tiny square. Spicket if youMoreAnd these are all manual valves down inside here you see this little tiny square. Spicket if you turn that counter clockwise a quarter of a turn.
When should I turn on my sprinkler system in the spring?
To keep your irrigation investment safe, monitor the weather and wait until temperatures consistently remain above freezing through the night. Typically, the best time to start up your sprinkler system is between the middle of April and the middle of May.
Can I turn on my sprinkler system myself?
Some homeowners count on a lawn service or irrigation contractor to winterize the system in the fall and turn it back on in the spring, but there is no reason to pay for this service, as it's very easy to do yourself in just a matter of minutes.
How do I Dewinterize my sprinkler system?
0:172:57How To Dewinterize a Lawn Sprinkler System - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipProcess. Then you'll want to locate your main water that leads to that sprinkler control valve andMoreProcess. Then you'll want to locate your main water that leads to that sprinkler control valve and just turn it on very slowly. And wait for it to pressurize.
How do I turn my sprinkler system back on?
0:023:00How To Turn On An Irrigation System - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTo turn on your irrigation system always start with going out to a vacuum breaker or backflow.MoreTo turn on your irrigation system always start with going out to a vacuum breaker or backflow.
Why won't my sprinklers turn on manually?
Here are some common reasons why your sprinkler system won't turn on: Lawn sprinkler control timer isn't working correctly. Clogged or dirty sprinkler heads. Broken sprinkler heads.
Why are my sprinklers not turning on?
When the sprinkler zones do not turn on at all, it is generally a problem with the electrical signals running from the controller to the valve solenoids. More rarely, it is caused by a faulty valve that needs to be rebuilt or replaced.
When should I start watering after winter?
Many homeowners start watering their lawn right after the end of the winter season. It is important to note though that during early spring, there is usually enough rain to keep your lawn healthy. The truth is that experts recommend that you start watering your lawn when the weather gets dry.
How cold is too cold for sprinklers?
While you may be eager to get your lawn back to its pristine green state, it is important to remember that temperatures at and below 32 degrees Fahrenheit put your sprinkler system at risk of freezing.
How do you turn on a sprinkler valve?
0:171:00Manual operation of Rain Bird valves - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTurn the solenoid in the on or counterclockwise. Direction about a quarter turn then wait a fewMoreTurn the solenoid in the on or counterclockwise. Direction about a quarter turn then wait a few seconds until you hear water rushing through the valve.
Why should irrigation systems not run on house water?
Irrigation systems should not run on house and pump water at the time because of the risk of contamination. When it comes time to use the pump, shut the valves on the backflow device and switch over. Note: If you have an RP unit the process is the same but with more test cock valves.
What is RP irrigation?
RP units are required for systems that may also run on pump systems or non potable water. Make sure the drain valve located next to the irrigation shut off (sometimes it is just a hose bib type valve) is closed. You are now ready to turn in the water. Turn the main irrigation supply line on SLOWLY!
How to stop water from running in house?
Turn the main irrigation supply line on SLOWLY! You should hear water running for a few seconds then stop. If the water does not stop running, more than likely there is a valve still open on the outside of the house (on or around the Backflow device). Turn off the water and go look for any sign of water spraying.
Where is the sprinkler shut off valve located?
If you are unsure where your sprinkler shutoff valve is located, you can usually find it in your basement, mechanical room, or crawlspace. Keep an eye out for pipes coming into your home at the exterior ground level.
When is it important to inspect a sprinkler head?
Spring is when it’s important to inspect every sprinkler head carefully for damage so you can clean, repair, or replace as necessary – before they become a problem later on! 2. Check Out Your Pump. If your sprinkler system has a pump, now’s the time to inspect that pumper!
How long to run a water hammer test on a sprinkler system?
Next, you need to verify the proper operation of each of your sprinkler zones. You can do this manually or set your sprinkler panel to run a manual test of your irrigation system for 3 to 5 minutes.
What does spring mean for lawns?
Another thing that spring brings is lawns turning green again after being dormant all winter long . The downside with this is your sprinkler system isn’t ready for use yet.
Do you need to lubricate a pump before turning on?
Make sure you have water in your pump before turning on the power. If your pump is sealed and does not require lubrication, it needs water to keep cool and lubricated.
Can you open a sprinkler valve too quickly?
Now that all your sprinkler spring cleaning is done, it’s time to let the water flow but start slowly! This allows the irrigation pipes to gradually fill with water. If you open the valves too quickly, it can cause a surge in high pressure from the trapped air and damage your sprinkler system, whoops!
How long does it take to turn on a sprinkler system?
The time required to turn on the irrigation system may be as little as 30 mins up to a couple of hours depending on the size and complexity of the system. The average professional service call to turn on ...
When should I water my sprinkler system?
Set the watering times when you can see the watering, particularly at the beginning of the season to make sure the sprinkler system is working correctly. If you water at night you may never see potential issues.
How to tell if your sprinklers are broken?
Use the control panel to start the irrigation program for a single zone, then keep an eye on your sprinklers at work. If you have any broken sprinkler heads, this is when you will most likely notice them. And if your sprinklers have unusually low pressure, that is often a sign of a water line break.
Why is it important to turn on the water in your irrigation system?
Slowly turning the water on is critical so that pipes & fittings are not damaged due to water velocity & water hammer. By turning the water on too fast, it can cause problems, and this can damage the pipes or sprinkler heads. Whichever valve you are turning on, it is always safe ...
What to do if sprinkler system freezes?
If watering can no longer wait, it might require to hook up the hose and perform the old-fashioned method while the soil thaws. 2. Turning on the Valves.
What to do if your sprinkler line is broken?
If a line is broken or damaged underground, it may take time to discover. Dig and fix any leaks then repair or replace any sprinkler heads that are broken. Make any necessary modifications and adjustments to the spray pattern of the sprinkler heads and let it run for some time and check the coverage.
What does spring turn on do?
The spring turn on provides a good opportunity to look at all the components, and see what is working correctly, what is broken, and which sprinklers may need to be adjusted. If the sprinkler system has broken components then it could be time to call in a professional.
How Much Does It Cost to De-Winterize Your Sprinkler System?
Before we dive into the de-winterization process, you may be itching to know how much it will cost you.
When to De-Winterize Your Irrigation System
Knowing when to turn on your system depends on where you live, as you’ll typically base your decision on the area’s last frost date.
Turning on the Sprinkler System After Winter
Before you turn on the irrigation system, check if the ground has thawed enough after the winter frost.
Your Sprinkler System Is Ready for Spring
Your sprinkler system is now back online, ready to turn your lawn into a lush green spring delight.
How to fill a sprinkler line?
Always remember to fill your sprinkler lines slowly. The valve to turn on the water is usually near your water meter inside the house. Turn the valve handle slowly to fill the lines between there and the backflow preventer. 4.Once the line is filled, go to the backflow preventer and open the lower ball valve.
What is the number for Ecolawn sprinkler system?
Our Fairfax Virginia # is 703-297-2909. Thanks!
How to check if your controller is plugged in all winter?
If you have a battery installed, now would be a good time to replace it. 1.Turn on each zone individually or in test mode and check your zones outside as they run. Always check for leaks.
Step 8: Check the Valves
Inspect the valves in each ground box in your lawn sprinkler system to make sure that there are no leaks, including loose bleeder valves. Recheck the irrigation system water line inside the house, including the main valve and the backflow preventer. Look over all connections, particularly the bleeder caps, to ensure that there are no leaks.
Step 9: Set the Controller
Set the timer on the control panel to set up the watering times for each zone. When first starting the timer, set up the watering times for when you can observe them, such as in the morning or early evening, because it will allow you to see any problems that can potentially arise with your lawn sprinkler system.