When winter starts to wind down, many homeowners begin thinking about turning their sprinkler systems back on. But starting your irrigation system the wrong way—or too early—can lead to leaks, wasted water, and costly repairs.

Before spring officially arrives, here are the most common irrigation mistakes to avoid and what to do instead.

1. Turning Your Irrigation System On Too Early

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is activating their sprinkler system before the risk of freezing temperatures has passed.

Why this is a problem:

  • Frozen ground can cause pipes to crack

  • Sudden pressure can damage valves and fittings

  • Hidden leaks may not be obvious until major damage occurs

What to do instead:
Wait until temperatures are consistently above freezing and schedule a professional spring startup to safely pressurize your system.

2. Skipping a Full System Inspection

During winter, irrigation systems can develop issues that aren’t visible at first glance.

Common problems include:

  • Cracked sprinkler heads

  • Broken underground lines

  • Damaged backflow preventers

  • Leaking valves from freeze damage

Skipping an inspection can allow small issues to turn into expensive repairs once watering begins.

3. Ignoring Controller Settings from Last Season

Many homeowners forget to check their irrigation controller before spring startup.

Potential issues:

  • Outdated run times

  • Incorrect seasonal adjustments

  • Zones watering too frequently or not enough

Smart move:
Review and update your controller settings to match early spring weather conditions. This helps prevent overwatering and promotes healthier turf growth.

4. Failing to Check Sprinkler Coverage and Alignment

Sprinkler heads can shift during winter due to frost heaving, snow removal, or foot traffic.

What happens if you skip this step:

  • Water sprays sidewalks or driveways

  • Dry spots in your lawn or landscape

  • Uneven watering across zones

A quick inspection during startup ensures water is going exactly where it’s needed.

5. Overwatering Early in the Season

Early spring lawns don’t need as much water as they do during peak summer months.

Overwatering can lead to:

  • Shallow root systems

  • Increased disease risk

  • Higher water bills

Proper scheduling and system calibration help maintain healthy grass without wasting water.

6. Forgetting About Water-Saving Upgrades

Spring is a great time to improve irrigation efficiency, but many homeowners overlook it.

Consider upgrades like:

  • Rain sensors

  • Smart irrigation controllers

  • High-efficiency sprinkler heads

These upgrades help conserve water and adapt watering schedules to real-time weather conditions.

 

Avoiding these common irrigation mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration throughout the growing season. A professional spring startup ensures your system operates efficiently, protects your lawn, and maximizes water use.