The unpredictable nature of seasonal changes in the Midwest can make it challenging for homeowners with irrigation systems. Spring, one of the best seasons in the Midwest, will be here before we know it and that means it’s time to de-winterize your irrigation system. There are several steps to take to complete this process so you can kick back, and enjoy Spring:
Spring Has Sprung…Or Has it?
In the Midwest, we know better than anybody that just because the calendar says its Spring, doesn’t mean it is so. The soil beneath your landscape is always the last to thaw. Starting your sprinkler system while the ground is still frozen can damage the pipes of your irrigation system. First your should use a shovel to make sure that the soil is frost-free 12 inches deep. If it is still solid as a rock, wait another week and retest it before starting the sprinkler system.
Take Back Control…
Check out all of the irrigation controls and programs. Be sure to dust away any cobwebs on the timer, make sure the time and day is accurate, and check that the settings are appropriate for your landscape’swatering needs. Don’t forget that you need to replace the back-up battery in the timer/controller every 6 months, and make sure to keep a copy of the watering schedule nearby.
Let it Flow…
Rocks, dirt, sand and other types of debris may block the even flow of water from sprinkler heads. Any uneven distribution can lead to too much water in some areas and not enough in others. This can result in an unhealthy landscape and wasted water. Check the spray heads and make sure they haven’t become buried and that debris has not accumulated around them.
In With the New…
Nozzles and sprinkler heads are designed to withstand normal wear and tear, but are no match for errant lawn mowers, or the neighbor’s curious or hungry dog. Replace any worn components, such as sprinkler heads, nozzles, valves or pipes. A broken sprinkler can wreak havoc on lawns, gardens, and water bills, so check and replace them periodically.
Value Your Valves…
Valves regulate the distribution of water throughout the entire irrigation system. A leaky valve will waste water, and increase your bill. Inspect each valve to make sure they are operating properly. Before you turn on any water to the system, make sure all manual drain valves are returned to the closed position.
No Time For This Hammer…
The high-pressure surge that occurs when a valve is first opened is called Water Hammer. A sudden pressure surge may cause pipe bursts and damage the ever important valves. The safest way to restore water to your sprinkler system, is to open the main water valve slowly and allow pipes to fill with water gradually, in a controlled manner. Save yourself from water hammer and costly damage.
The Pressure’s On…
When turning the main water valve back on, make sure the water pressure is at a safe operating range. Too much pressure will result in cracked pipes, busted valves, or sprinkler head leaks. Invest in a water pressure gauge to measure the water pressure in your home and yard. These devices typically connect to a hose faucet and tell you the pressure in your irrigation system. A pressure regulator may be required to prevent damage to the sprinkler system or undesirable results. Case in point, if water is “misting” out of your sprinkler heads, the pressure is too high and should be reduced.
Contact Heinen Landscape & Irrigation today for a no-obligation estimate for upgrades to your existing system. Just call Debbie at 913-362-8439. We’d be more than happy to help you get your irrigation system back up and running. Happy Spring!
