Irrigation System Care Sheet
This comprehensive care sheet is designed to help you maintain your newly installed irrigation system, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. Proper care will lead to a healthier landscape and more efficient water usage.
I. Initial System Operation and Familiarization
Your irrigation system has been thoroughly tested and adjusted upon installation. Familiarize yourself with its main components and functions.
Controller/Timer: This is the brain of your system.
Learn how to program watering schedules (start times, run times, days).
Understand manual override options.
Locate the rain sensor bypass switch, if applicable.
Rain Sensor: This device prevents watering during rainfall, saving water.
Ensure it is clear of obstructions.
Test its functionality periodically, as recommended by the manufacturer.
Main Shut-Off Valve: Know the location of the main shut-off valve for your irrigation system in case of emergencies or winterization.
Backflow Preventer: This device protects your potable water supply from contamination.
Understand its location and annual testing requirements, checking local regulations for specifics.
Sprinkler Heads: Observe all zones operating to ensure proper coverage and identify any immediate issues.
II. Watering Schedule and Adjustments
The initial watering schedule has been set based on your landscape's immediate needs.
Establishment Period (First 2-4 Weeks): Your new plants and lawn will require more frequent, shallow watering to establish their root systems.
Monitor for signs of plant stress, such as wilting or browning.
Adjust run times slightly if needed, while carefully avoiding overwatering.
Seasonal Adjustments: As seasons change, so do your landscape's watering needs.
Spring: Gradually increase watering as temperatures rise and plants begin active growth.
Summer: Water deeply and less frequently during summer to encourage deep root growth and reduce evaporation. Early morning watering is most efficient.
Fall: Gradually decrease watering as temperatures drop and plant growth slows.
Winter: Refer to the "Winterization" section.
Soil Type: Different soil types retain water differently.
Sandy Soil: May require more frequent, shorter watering cycles.
Clay Soil: Holds water longer and may require less frequent, longer watering cycles.
Plant Needs: Group plants with similar water requirements together (hydrozoning) to optimize water use.
III. Regular Maintenance Checks
Perform these checks periodically to ensure your system is running efficiently.
Weekly Visual Inspection:
Sprinkler Heads: Check for broken, clogged, tilted, or leaking heads. Ensure they are spraying in the correct direction and not watering pavement or structures.
Wet Spots/Dry Spots: Identify areas that are consistently too wet or too dry, indicating potential coverage issues or leaks.
Excessive Runoff: If water is pooling or running off, reduce run times and consider implementing cycling and soaking (shorter watering cycles with rest periods in between).
Plant Health: Observe your landscape for signs of overwatering (yellowing leaves) or underwatering (wilting).
Monthly Performance Check:
Run Each Zone: Manually run each zone for a few minutes to observe operation.
Nozzle Clogs: Clean clogged nozzles with a small brush or by carefully removing the nozzle and rinsing.
Adjust Sprinkler Heads: Use the appropriate tool (usually a flathead screwdriver) to adjust the arc and radius of spray heads if needed.
Pressure Issues: Noticeable differences in spray distance or misting can indicate pressure problems. Contact Todd’s Services if you suspect an issue.
IV. Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue | Probable Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No water from a zone | Main valve off, wiring issue, broken pipe, clogged filter | Check main valve, contact professional, inspect for visible leaks, clean filter |
| Low pressure | Partially closed main valve, clogged filter, multiple zones running, broken pipe | Check main valve, clean filter, ensure only one zone runs at a time, contact professional |
| Leaking heads | Broken head, loose connection, worn seal | Replace head, tighten connection, replace seal |
| Dry spots | Blocked spray, incorrect head, insufficient run time | Clear obstruction, install correct head, increase run time |
| Wet spots/Pooling water | Broken pipe, overwatering, poor drainage | Repair leak, reduce run time, improve drainage |
| Controller not working | Power outage, battery dead, wiring issue | Check power, replace battery, contact professional |
| Rain sensor not working | Blocked, dirty, faulty | Clear obstruction, clean sensor, contact professional |