5 Steps to a Trouble-Free Sprinkler Startup

Open the main valve slowly Cracking it fully open first can blow out frozen or damaged fittings. Turn it just a quarter turn at first to let air and sediment ease out.

Run each zone manually Use the controller to test each zone for a couple of minutes. Walk the yard while they run to spot problems.

Check for broken or tilted heads Look for heads that are cracked, not popping up, or spraying in the wrong direction. Fix these before letting the system run automatically.

Inspect for leaks near valve boxes Pooling water around a valve box means a leak. Repair it now to avoid wasting water and damaging your yard.

Test the rain sensor and set the timer Rain sensors can get gunked up or knocked out of alignment. Set watering for early morning, like 4–6 AM, to reduce evaporation and wind loss.