Turning on your sprinklers may seem like a daunting task, and many don’t know where to start. Schulze Landscaping does not provide this service, so we created this step by step list that will help you turn on your own sprinklers.
While we don’t turn on sprinklers, we do offer many other services. Contact us today to receive a free quote!
- First things first, you will need to find your backflow. A backflow is usually located either on the side of the house or the back of the house.
- Make sure that the test valves are closed. They should be positioned vertically if they are closed.
- Also be sure that the ball valves are closed as well.These two valves are either red or blue in color. They should also be positioned vertically if they are closed.
- Before you turn on the water, be sure that the valve is in the off position.
- Verify that all other valves within your landscape are closed as well. This includes the electronic valves that can be found in the boxes. Drain valves should also be closed.
- Check that your drain (or blow-out point) is tight. Either a cap or a plug will be located next to the bonnet.
- Find the main water shut-off for the irrigation system. Check either your crawl space, utility room, or basement.
- Check that the drain valve is closed. The drain valve is located next to the irrigation shut off.
- Turn on the water.
- Slowly turn on the main irrigation supply line. Listen for running water. The water should only run for a few seconds and then eventually stop. If the running water continues to flow, then there is probably an open valve on the backflow. If this occurs, turn on the water and go look for leaking/spraying water. If it’s an open valve, close it and turn your water back on. Again, listen to make sure that the water does not continue to run.
- Once your water is running correctly, head outside and open the ball valve that is located closest to the house. Be sure to open the valve very slowly. The backflow should be pressurized by this process.
- Slowly open the next ball valve. Be sure to leave this valve at a 45° angle.
- Now that the mainline is charging, take this time to do another quick checkup to make sure there are no water leaks. It may take up to several minutes for the mainline to completely charge. Be sure to listen to verify that the water has stopped running.
- Once you are sure there are no water leaks and the mainline is charged, go ahead and fully open the ball valve.
- For the next step, go through all the zones via the irrigation clock. As usual, check for leaks and that you have proper head adjustment as the zones run.
- You can now program your irrigation controller.
- If you have a pump that is attached to your sprinkler system, be sure that it is isolated. Do not run your irrigation system on pump water or house water as this can cause contamination. If you’re using a pump, make sure to shut the valves on the backflow and switch.