Reconnect and test irrigation system

Why It Matters

Lines can have winter damage that you won't see until water is flowing. Testing catches leaks and broken heads before plants miss water.

Tools

• Flathead screwdriver (for adjusting spray patterns)

Materials

• Replacement sprinkler heads (matching existing type and radius)

How to Do It

1. Locate the main irrigation shutoff and reopen it slowly to avoid pressure surges in the lines.
2. At the controller, activate the first zone and walk its coverage area while water is flowing.
3. Look for leaks at fittings, heads that don't pop up fully, and spray patterns hitting pavement or missing plants.
4. Adjust any misaligned spray heads using a screwdriver to redirect coverage back onto intended areas.
5. Replace any heads that are broken, clogged, or no longer matching the zone's spray pattern.
6. Repeat for each remaining zone before moving on, so any needed replacements are identified across the full system.

Related Tasks

• Flush and drain irrigation system Once a year
• Aerate and overseed lawn Once a year
• Apply perimeter pest repellent Once a year