Winter is finally over and starting your sprinkler system up for the spring could be the first thing that would come into your mind to welcome the shift towards a warm and comforting spring season. Your plumbing system should now be reactivated after being dormant for the long winter days. However, you should be aware of the proper methods to reactivate your irrigation system especially after long periods of not being used. Generally, abruptly starting up the irrigation system would cause undesirable operation and damage to its parts and components. Avoid such setbacks in starting up your sprinkler system by observing the following tips that could save your irrigation system components and save you lots of money on repairs.
First thing you have to do is check the environment around your irrigation system. It should be free from signs of the winter past such as frost and snow deposits. Ensure that the soil is frost free by checking around it and digging a hole at least twelve inches deep. Running your irrigation system while frost is present will cause freeze damage to your pipes, which are costly in terms of replacement parts and repair expenses. Once you assure that the soil is frost-free, you can now reactivate or recharge your sprinkler system by slowly running water in it.
Check if all manual drain valves are closed before opening the main valve. Slowly open the main valve to slowly run the water in the pipes. Do not abruptly open the main valve in full, as the sudden excess pressure might cause uncontrolled water flow and water hammer. Water hammer is caused by excessive pressures within the pipes and will cause damages to internal parts and fittings of your irrigation system. As the main valve gradually runs the water along the pipes, open zone valves and check for proper operation. Note if the sprinkler heads are turning properly, water pressure is adequate and good coverage is attained. Should you observe adverse results, you should also check and clean filters, repair leaks and breaks or adjust misaligned sprinkler heads. While you can do these minor repairs by yourself, its best to call on a professional plumber to do it for you.
You should also check your sprinkler system’s other auxiliary components such as timing devices, control panels and batteries. You can do a timed test run for each zone to ensure the accuracy of the timing device of your system. Old batteries should also be recharged or replaced immediately to make sure that your sprinkler system works as it should be, without the dangers of damaged batteries that will cause short circuits and electrical damages.
As a final note, starting up your sprinkler system after a long idle period should be done slowly. All it needs is to be reactivated gradually to let the water in slowly while pushing air out. Also be ready with spare parts should you need some replacements and repairs to be done. With a deliberate and step-by-step procedure, you can successfully start up your sprinkler system after the winter and welcome the warmth of spring with a well-working water sprinkler system.
If you opt not to do it yourself, professional plumbers can help you properly start up your sprinkler system and do maintenance checks for you. If you live within the Salt Lake City area, you can call on a professional Salt Lake City plumber who will be readily available to provide professional help for your irrigation needs.