Five Steps For Turning Your Sprinkler System On In The Spring
Late spring or early summer is the time to get your sprinkler system started up for the season. Unfortunately, many homeowners make the mistake of simply turning the system back on, which can lead to problems if any issues developed over the winter months. The following guide can help you start up your system successfully each year.
1. Locate and Clear the Sprinkler Heads
Snow and mud from winter can compact over sprinkler heads, making it so they can't quite pop up when you turn the system on for the first time. To avoid this problem, walk your property and locate the sprinkler head cavities in your lawn. Clear out any debris or turf that is over the top of the sprinkler heads so that they are no longer obstructed.
2. Power On the Control Panel
The next step is to make sure your sprinkler system control panel is operating properly. Turn on the system and check the zones and timer settings. If the system fails to power on, you may need to check the circuit breaker and the wiring connections to make sure everything is working properly. If you can't find the issue, a sprinkler service can repair the control board or replace it as needed. Once the system is powered on, adjust the settings to fit your current irrigation needs.
3. Open the Vacuum Valve
Most sprinkler systems are equipped with a vacuum valve, which allows any air trapped within the lines to escape so that the lines don't burst when you first turn on the system. If you do not know the location of this valve, a sprinkler service can help you locate it, as well as instruct you on its operation.
4. Turn On the Main Sprinkler Valve
This step must be performed slowly. Turn the main valve on in small increments; the goal is to avoid a sudden rush of water that could cause damage to components that haven't been used in several months. After you have fully turned on the main, check the vacuum valve. Once the air is done escaping, some water may start to leak out of the valve. At this point, you can close the vacuum valve.
5. Check Your Zones
Finally, run your sprinkler through each of the zones for several minutes. Check the zone while it is running. You may need to adjust sprinkler heads or dig up one or two that were missed in step one. If an emitter is not working, you may need to have the line or the sprinkler head replaced.
If you need help with the process or run into a problem, contact a lawn sprinkler system service company near you.
To learn more, visit a website like http://www.krupskesprinklers.com.
