Spring sprinkler start-up is the best time to catch winter damage before the system settles into its regular watering schedule. Grosse Pointe homeowners should treat the first activation as an inspection, not just a switch-flip.
1. Inspect exposed plumbing
Before opening the irrigation supply, look at the backflow assembly and visible fittings for cracks, loose parts or signs of winter damage. If anything is visibly split or leaking, leave the irrigation water off until it can be repaired.
2. Open the irrigation supply gradually
Slowly pressurizing the system reduces sudden hydraulic shock and gives you time to notice an immediate leak. Watch exposed plumbing as pressure returns.
3. Run every zone
Operate each zone manually and watch every sprinkler. Check pressure, spray direction, rotation, leaks and whether each valve opens and closes normally. A controller display that shows a station running does not prove the valve actually opened.
4. Check heads and nozzles
Clean clogged nozzles, straighten tilted heads and make sure grass or soil is not blocking the spray. Look for heads damaged by snow removal, lawn work or winter soil movement.
5. Review the controller and sensor
Correct the date and time, remove any winter shutdown settings and confirm the rain sensor is not unintentionally bypassed. Spring watering should usually be lighter than midsummer watering because temperatures are lower and rainfall is often more frequent.
Common start-up problems
Typical spring issues include cracked exposed fittings, dead zones, controller clocks that reset, clogged nozzles, low heads and leaks that only become visible after the system is pressurized.
Related guides
See when to turn on sprinklers in Grosse Pointe and rain sensor troubleshooting. Professional activation is available through our sprinkler start-up service.
Authoritative resource
EPA WaterSense recommends checking irrigation systems for leaks, broken or clogged heads and adjusting schedules with seasonal conditions. EPA WaterSense
