Here in the Houston area, Spring has sprung.  Just a few months ago, it was below freezing long enough to freeze some exposed pipes and sprinkler system PVB (anti-siphon) valves.  Are you included in this group?  Unfortunately I am.

Now is the time to get those pipes fixed.  PVC repairs are pretty simple, but PVB valve repairs are only a little more complicated.

Once the system is running, check to see how well it is running.

Check the program clock and schedule.  Ideally, sprinklers run in the morning.

Check each zone.  Look for obvious broken heads, but some breaks are a little more subtle.  A common area for broken heads is next to the driveway.  If a sprinkler zone has sprinkler heads that only slightly rise, or do not rise at all, listen carefully.  Sometimes the pipe is broken and there is not enough pressure to lift any heads, but you can usually hear the water rushing from the broken pipe.

Finally, check how much water is flowing.  An easy way is to put a couple of aluminum disposable pie pans.  Spread them out for each zone, and then see how long it takes for 1/2 an inch of water to be in the pan.  This is how much time that zone will need.  Remember, different types of sprinkler heads will need different amounts of time.  Generally speaking, pip up heads need around 10 minutes, while rotating heads need more.  One zone in our back yard needs 45 minutes!!!

Do you have a rain sensor?  You need one, and all new sprinkler systems are required to have one.

Don’t forget, the sprinkler system will do exactly as it is programmed, so don’t set it and forget it!

Remember, your home will last as long as you take care of it.