Spring Irrigation Start-Up & Service Facts

Landscape

As the last frost thaws and Louisville begins to bloom with springtime color, it’s time to turn your attention to your irrigation system. A proper spring start-up is essential to ensure efficient watering, prevent costly repairs, and keep your landscape looking its best throughout the growing season.

Here’s a practical guide to getting your spring irrigation system up and running:

Why Spring Start-Up Matters

Louisville winters can be harsh on irrigation systems. Frozen pipes, cracked valves, and misaligned sprinkler heads are common issues if your system wasn’t winterized properly, or even if it was. Spring start-up isn’t just about turning the water back on; it’s a crucial maintenance step to catch problems early and fine-tune performance for the season ahead.

Step-by-Step: Irrigation Spring Start-Up

1. Inspect the System Before Pressurizing

Check for visible damage to sprinkler heads, valve boxes, and backflow preventers.
Clear debris like leaves, mulch, or grass that may be covering heads or valves.
Ensure the controller is off before introducing water to avoid electrical shorting or pressure surges.

2. Slowly Open the Main Water Valve

Open the main water supply gradually to avoid pressure shock to pipes.
If you hear a loud whooshing sound, stop—the water is likely flowing too fast and could damage internal components.

3. Test the Backflow Preventer

In Louisville, Kentucky, local codes often require backflow preventers to be tested annually.
This device protects your drinking water from contamination and should be inspected by a licensed technician.

4. Run Each Zone Manually

Turn on each irrigation zone from the controller and inspect:
Are all heads spraying properly?
Are any heads clogged, leaking, or misaligned?
Are there any noticeable low-pressure issues or geysers?

Fine-Tune Adjustments for a Healthy Landscape

Louisville’s mix of clay soil and variable spring weather means overwatering can be just as harmful as underwatering.

Here’s what to adjust:

Head Alignment: Ensure heads are not spraying onto sidewalks, driveways, or streets.
Spray Pattern: Adjust nozzles for even coverage and prevent dry spots or puddles.
Timing Settings:
Start with two to three days a week, depending on recent rainfall.
Early morning watering is best to reduce evaporation and disease.

When to Call a Professional

Some issues require more than a DIY fix. Here are signs it’s time to bring in a pro:

Your system won’t pressurize or run.
You notice consistently wet or dry patches in the lawn.
You find damage to the backflow device or wiring issues with the controller.
You need help with smart irrigation upgrades like weather-based controllers or drip conversion for plant beds.

In Louisville, local irrigation companies often offer seasonal service plans that include spring start-up, mid-season checks, and fall winterization.

Starting your Spring Irrigation

Starting up your irrigation system correctly in spring sets the tone for a lush, efficient landscape all season long. Whether you’re a homeowner or manage commercial property in Louisville, proper maintenance saves water, reduces costs, and protects your investment.

If you’re unsure about any part of the process or want to upgrade to a smarter, more sustainable system, consider scheduling a professional spring start-up service.

Need help with irrigation service in Louisville? Contact a local expert today and get your system flowing right this season