Spring Sprinkler Start-Up Checklist: Inspect, Test Zones, Fix Leaks & Set Your Controller

Before the hot days hit, give your irrigation system a quick “spring start-up” so you don’t spend the season chasing soggy spots, dry patches, or surprise leaks. The EPA’s WaterSense program recommends a simple approach—Inspect, Connect, Direct, and Select—to reduce water waste and keep your system running efficiently.

When should you turn your sprinklers on in spring?

A good rule is to wait until the ground is thawed and your area is past freeze risk. Turning the system on too early can increase the chance of damage and leaks. If you’re unsure, start with a visual check—soft ground, no frost overnight—and then follow the safe pressurization steps below.

What you’ll need (5-minute prep)

• Flathead screwdriver (for spray head adjustments)
• Small shovel/trowel (valve boxes)
• Paper towels or rag (spotting slow leaks)
• Phone notes (write down zone issues)
• Optional: rain sensor / soil sensor (for smarter watering)

Step-by-Step Spring Start-Up Checklist

1) INSPECT: Walk the property first

• Check the backflow assembly (if above ground) for cracks, missing caps, or obvious winter damage.
• Open valve boxes: look for cracked fittings, split manifolds, or broken wires.
• Scan lawns/beds for sunken spots (could indicate a broken lateral line) or unusually green patches (hidden leak).

Why it matters: Catching issues early saves money and prevents water waste all season.

2) CONNECT: Pressurize the system safely (go slow)

• Make sure the controller is OFF (or in “Rain/Delay” mode).
• Open the main irrigation shutoff slowly to fill lines gently.
• Pause for a minute and listen for rushing water—then check boxes and the backflow area for leaks.

Tip: Opening the main valve too quickly can cause water hammer (a pressure surge) that stresses fittings and can trigger leaks.

3) DIRECT: Run each zone and watch what happens

Use “Manual” on your controller and run zones one at a time (2–5 minutes each). For every zone, check:

• Heads: cracked bodies, missing nozzles, stuck pop-ups
• Direction: spray should hit plants/grass—not sidewalks, siding, or the street
• Coverage: dry corners or misting/fogging (often too-high pressure or wrong nozzle)
• Leaks: bubbling at a head = broken riser/connection; soggy spot between heads = lateral leak

WaterSense specifically calls out checking for broken heads, leaks, and overspray to reduce water waste.

4) SELECT: Update your watering schedule (don’t “set it and forget it”)

• Start light: early spring often needs less watering than mid-summer.
• Use cycle-and-soak (shorter run times with pauses) if you see runoff on slopes or clay soil.
• Add a rain sensor to prevent watering after storms.
• Refresh your controller settings anytime you change nozzles, add drip, or alter zones.

WaterSense’s “Select” step encourages choosing more efficient scheduling and equipment to avoid unnecessary watering.

Fast Troubleshooting (Most Common Spring Problems)

Shop the Parts You’ll Most Likely Need

FAQ

How do I start my sprinkler system in spring without breaking anything?

Turn the controller off, then open the main irrigation shutoff slowly to pressurize lines gently. After that, run each zone manually and look for leaks, broken heads, and overspray.

Why are my sprinklers misting instead of spraying?

Misting often means the pressure is too high or the nozzle doesn’t match the zone. Check pressure regulation and confirm you’re using the correct nozzle type for your heads.

How do I know if I have a leak underground?

Look for a soggy area between heads, unusually green patches, or water bubbling around a head. If you suspect a lateral leak, dig carefully and repair the break with the correct couplings and fittings.

Should I change my controller schedule in spring?

Yes. Spring generally needs less watering than peak summer. Start light, adjust based on weather and soil conditions, and consider adding a rain sensor to skip watering after storms.

Wrap-Up

Most sprinkler “mysteries” are really spring start-up issues: a cracked head, a loose fitting, a zone that needs redirecting, or a schedule that’s still stuck in July. If you follow the WaterSense approach—Inspect, Connect, Direct, and Select—you’ll catch problems early and set your system up for a smooth season.

Ready to tune yours up? Start with Irrigation Parts, then upgrade efficiency with Sensors or a smarter Controller.