From clogged nozzles to broken heads to damaged drip lines, several factors could’ve affected the components during the dormant season.
As a San Antonio native I appreciate the start of spring: days get warmer, flowers begin blooming, grass starts growing — and sprinklers start sprinkling. But wait a minute…
You wouldn’t just take off running before warming up. The same applies to your irrigation system. Before you turn it on for the season, give it a thorough checkup.
Several factors could’ve affected it while it was off for the winter. Plus, you want to make sure that when you do turn it on the water is being applied to your landscape effectively.
Look for:
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Broken heads
These are easy to spot as they usually appear as geysers or flooded areas around the heads. Start by running a test program on the controller so you can visually examine each zone. If you have any flags or sticks, use them to mark any problem areas. One broken head can easily add an extra five gallons a minute per zone. -
Time and date
Whether it was falling back, springing forward or a random power outage, the time and date might be incorrect, especially if the controller doesn’t have a backup battery. This is also a good time to replace the battery if there is one.
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Stuck valves
Valves get stuck in either closed or open position. For this article, I’ll focus on open valves, which can be difficult to catch just because they’re not as obvious. Sometimes a stuck valve will be run constantly even after switching to the next zone or not selecting it. Other times they’ll show up as a slow trickle. Or in the peak of summer, there’ll be areas around certain heads that are always wet or green. Chances are there’s a valve that’s stuck open.If you have a controller with a functioning master valve, simply shut the controller off and repair the stuck valve. If you turn off the controller and the stuck valve is still running, you don’t have a master valve (or it’s not functioning correctly). In this case shut off the water to the entire irrigation system (usually located near your water meter) to repair the valve.
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Drip lines
These can be damaged accidentally during lawn maintenance or plant pruning. Even rodents have been known to nibble on drip tubing for a quick drink of water. Leaks usually appear as larger than normal puddles, a fine mist of water or a constant hissing sound. Installing an indicator head or drip indicator flag that rises when the system is on and water pressure is present can help you make sure it’s operating correctly. -
Rain sensors
Some wireless rain sensors have a receiver that indicates battery life and signal strength. Others are wired and within hands reach so you can test it by running the system and lightly tapping the top of the sensor a few times to trip it. It should turn off the irrigation system if it’s working correctly. -
Seasonal adjust
This function allows you to adjust the watering times based on the season without having to change each zone’s run time. For example, reducing the run time from 100% to 70% will cut the watering time from 10 minutes to 7 minutes. For March, we recommend running your system at 50-60%, then in April bumping it up to 60-70%.
Now you’re on your way to irrigation system excellence! Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a properly functioning irrigation system.
And remember: this checkup is not limited to spring. Checking your system regularly is good practice.
