Caring for Your Sprinkler System This Spring
Temperatures may still be on the cooler side for now, but with the snow melted and spring officially here, it’s time to prep your home for warmer weather—this includes starting up your sprinkler system. Of course, it’s important that you take the time in the winter to shut everything down in order to avoid any problems this time of the year.
However, if you do run into any issues, you can contact our team for Idaho Falls, ID plumbing services. Provided no issues crop up though, the following steps will help you get your home’s irrigation system prepped for use this season.
Step 1: Ensure the Ground Is Thawed
Just because you don’t see any frost or snow doesn’t necessarily mean the ground is completely thawed. Check your soil with a shovel to ensure that it isn’t rock solid.
Step 2: Check That the Valves Are Shut
During your winter sprinkler prep, you likely shut off all the valves of your sprinkler system. If one is still open, however, then you’ll want to shut it before you can test your irrigation system for leaks.
Step 3: Turn on the Water, Slowly!
If you discover that any water is leaking from a valve, then it hasn’t shut off completely. Turn off the water and close the valve all the way, and then slowly turn on the water again. Should you notice water leaking despite the valves being shut, then it’s time to call a professional.
Step 4: Open the First and Second Ball Valve
Providing that steps 1-3 went smoothly, then very slowly open the first and second ball valve. The first one is the valve closest to your home, and opening it charges the backflow devices. Next, open the second valve, which will charge the main sprinkler line. This typically takes several minutes, and you’ll want to make sure you check for any signs of leaking.
Step 5: Check Each Zone
Once your sprinkler line is charged and the valves are open, you’ll want to check each zone for leaks. Even if your system is automatic, you should check each zone individually.
Step 6: Consistently Check for Proper Sprinkler Operation
Hopefully you’ll be able to get your sprinkler system started for spring without any major issues. But it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for certain factors throughout the season and beyond, that could indicate a problem such as a blockage or leak. If you notice either of the following signs, you may need to have your sprinkler system checked for proper operation.
Overwatered Plants: Standing water can be detrimental to your outdoor plants. If you notice yellowing or drooping leaves, branch die-off, wet and mushy roots, or moist soil long after watering, then you may have an issue with the sprinkler system overwatering your plants.
Underwatered Plants: On the other hand, if your plants aren’t watered enough they’ll begin to suffer from stress that damages their roots, leaves, and stems. You may notice pale green leaves or brown edges on leaves if this occurs, as well as dry soil around your plant roots.
Contact Advanced Home Services today for quality plumbing services.
