The return of spring means it's time to make sure your sprinkler system is set up and ready for the growing season. If you properly winterized your sprinklers, you'll need to take a few steps to prepare your irrigation system for regular daily use. Learn how to de-winterize your system with this helpful guide.

How to De-Winterize Your Sprinkler System

1. Dig for Frozen Ground

The return of warm weather can be deceiving, leading hasty gardeners to turn their irrigation systems on before the ground has fully thawed. Running your irrigation system when the temperatures are too low can cause your pipes to freeze and potentially burst. To prevent this, dig a hole one-foot below the surface of your soil in a shady area in your yard. If any part of the soil is frozen, wait two weeks and then try again.

2. Release Air From Pipes

At the end of the season, you likely had your sprinkler lines blown out to remove water and prevent freezing during the winter. While this is ideal for the cold months, when water is reintroduced, it can cause air pockets in your sprinkler lines.

This trapped air creates a shockwave known as "water hammer," which can lead to burst pipes, broken valves, and system failure. Air pressure release valves can typically help you avoid this, but if your system doesn't have them, remove one sprinkler head in each zone to allow air to escape while the pipes are filling.

3. Inspect Your Irrigation Zones

In the winter, your sprinkler heads can become compacted beneath the soil, sustain damage from extreme weather conditions, or become knocked out of alignment. To ensure your sprinklers are providing adequate coverage to your lawn and gardens, use your irrigation system's control panel to test each zone, looking for broken, buried, or misdirected sprinkler heads. Adjust the heads for maximum coverage and work with a sprinkler technician to repair any as needed. 

Take the effort out of de-winterizing your sprinkler system by hiring the professionals at Whittemore Sprinkler Company in Lincoln, NE. Specializing in irrigation installations, maintenance, and repairs, their skilled team provides unmatched seasonal care for your sprinklers, ensuring the beauty of your landscaping and functionality of your system year-round. Contact them at 402-476-8552 to schedule an appointment or visit them online to learn more about their services.