Proper preparation is essential to ready your sprinkler system for a summer of intense work. The first step is to activate the water supply after the system has been off during fall and winter. Below are the steps involved in this important process.

How to Prepare Your Sprinkler System for Summer

1. Turn on Valves 

The stop and waste valve, also called the main sprinkler shutoff, allows you to disconnect the water running to the sprinkler systems without turning the water off to your house. It is located four or five feet in the ground, and you will need a T-bar meter key to access and unlock it. Turn it in a 90-degree counterclockwise position to switch it on. Be sure to turn it slowly to prevent water hammers and burst pipes and lines.

2. Switch on Breakers

The pressure vacuum breakers now need to be turned on via two ball valves, typically situated on either side of the vacuum breaker valve. This is usually located close to the water source before it reaches the sprinkler valves. Turn the ball valves a quarter of a turn very slowly. The pressure vacuum breaker is on when the ball valves are in the parallel position, while the perpendicular position means it is off.

3. Test Each Line

Wait several minutes for the main water line to charge, then go to the irrigation clock and test each line manually. Look for leaks and the proper positioning of each sprinkler head. Some heads may need to be removed, cleaned, repaired, or replaced. Finally, set a timer for the preferred watering schedule; for the first few days, aim to be present when it goes off to make certain everything is functioning as it should.

To get assistance in activating and preparing your sprinkler system for summer, always consult a professional. Team Green Inc. in Elko has 20 years of experience providing Northern Nevada with sprinkler and irrigation services. They also offer landscape designing that will transform your yard into a lush, green outdoor space. Call (775) 777-3338 or visit them online to schedule sprinkler service.