Once the snow has melted, it’s time to start thinking about your spring outdoor maintenance plan. A working sprinkler system keeps your lawn looking great and your curb appeal high, so get ahead of the warmer weather by making sure that your irrigation system is up and ready for spring and summer.

Follow this checklist to get your sprinkler system ready for when the temperatures rise:

• Often, sprinkler heads go missing or get damaged during the winter months, so check to make sure that they are all there and that they are pointed correctly. Skipping this step may result in uneven watering, leaving your landscaping dry and underwatered in some areas through the spring.
• If you opened your lines to drain them in the fall, ensure that they are now closed. Next, open the main valve slowly to fill the lines and empty out any remaining air pockets.
• Confirm that your water pressure is where it should be. The ideal pressure for lawn irrigation is 40 to 65 psi.
• The start of the season is the best time to flush the system to get rid of any built-up dirt or debris, making sure the sprinkler system is ready to perform when you need it.
• If your system has a rain sensor, check it to make sure it is operating so that it knows when rain starts, saving you money and limiting your water use through the season.
• Before you start your system this spring, check on the settings and reprogram them based on your needs, with accurate times and zoning for maximum efficiency.
• Drainage matters, too, as standing water poses a potential risk for insects, infection, and tripping hazards. Ensure that your sprinkler system drains the way it’s supposed to away from any walkways, entrances, or parking lots and complete any repairs or alterations if necessary.
• Turn on the system once the threat of frost has completely passed and the weather has warmed up to avoid flooding your lawn and your property.

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Get your irrigation system spring-ready with a few simple steps to save time and money, and up your curb appeal through the warmer seasons.