Checklist: General and Seasonal Irrigation System Maintenance
Keep this list as a handy reference for your seasonal Irrigation System Maintenance.
Winterization
- Shut off main water source
- Open manual drain valves to allow for gravity if possible
- Shut all irrigation system manual valves and pressurize with compressed air. (Compressors can be rented from a local rental supply).
- Switch irrigation system controller to manual operation
- Advance controller to hold each zone on until heads blow air
- Repeat for each zone and controller
- Leave all small brass valves “open” if double check valve is installed
- Return controllers to “Automatic” and set to activate for at least several minutes per month. Leave “on” over winter.
- Disconnect compressor. Leave any manual drains open unless there is possibility of ground water back-up.
Spring Start-up
- Close all manual drain valves including double check valve
- Open system main valve to water supply
- Activate each zone on system timer and check for winter damage
- Set automatic cycles
System Maintenance
- Delegate responsibility for time clock to one well trained individual
- Prepare two copies of as-built plans, reduce one, laminate, store in timer area
- Colour code valves and clock information
- Correct design errors that cause runoff onto paved areas or structures
- Make sure all valves are accessible and not concealed by shrubbery
- Install check valves to prevent drainage to lower heads
- Schedule regular maintenance, repair, fine tune, check pressures
- Adjust time schedules constantly to allow for plant growth and seasonal requirements
- Irrigate slopes in short repeat cycles to avoid runoff
- Set times for maximum penetration and fewer applications
- Use drip and bubbler systems whenever possible
