In arid regions, an in-ground sprinkler system is indispensable for maintaining a lush, green lawn. Most lawns that receive less than 1 inch of rainfall per week require some form of irrigation system to ensure adequate watering. However, sprinkler systems consist of numerous components, and it’s only natural for sprinkler heads to require adjustments and underground pipes to need repairs at some point. Regular lawn sprinkler maintenance is essential for summer lawn health and preventing drought stress on your turfgrass. Continue reading to understand why it’s crucial and what to focus on when repairing your sprinkler system.
The Significance of Lawn Sprinkler Maintenance
Lawn sprinkler maintenance offers several advantages for both you and your lawn. Here are two key benefits of keeping your lawn’s sprinkler system in top condition:
- Uniform Watering: With regular checks on your sprinklers, you can avoid worrying about unsightly brown patches appearing later in the season. You’ll also eliminate concerns about runoff and oversaturated areas caused by excessive watering. By maintaining your irrigation system, you ensure that your lawn receives precisely the right amount of water it needs, promoting a healthier and greener appearance.
- Water Conservation: When a sprinkler head becomes loose and wastefully gushes water, your lawn receives an excessive amount of water, resulting in the waste of this valuable resource. Proper care of your sprinkler system ensures that only the appropriate amount of water is used, and it is directed toward your lawn rather than being wasted on driveways, vehicles, or your house.
Lawn Sprinkler System Maintenance Checklist
Performing sprinkler system maintenance at least once a year is essential. At the start of the sprinkler season, conduct a routine check on your system. Consider inspecting the sprinklers monthly throughout the summer to ensure everything remains in working order. Additionally, monitor your sprinklers if you notice brown patches, runoff, or excessively wet driveways.
When conducting maintenance on your irrigation system, focus on the following aspects to maintain a healthy and verdant lawn:
- Water Pressure: Before activating your sprinklers at the beginning of the season, verify the water pressure. If problems arise during the summer, recheck the water pressure. While the ideal pressure can vary depending on your sprinkler manufacturer, it typically falls within the range of 40 to 65 PSI.
- Missing or Damaged Sprinkler Heads: Sprinkler heads are frequent culprits behind system issues, so inspect them regularly. Examine each individual sprinkler to ensure the head is present and undamaged. Replace any missing heads before running your sprinklers. Often, the missing head can be found in the lawn, but if you require a new one, they are readily available at most hardware stores.
- Sprinkler Head Angle and Arc: Even if all the heads are in good condition, confirm that they are set to spray at the correct angles. Prior to starting the sprinklers, check the spray patterns to ensure they water the lawn and not sidewalks or other unintended areas. If a head is improperly angled or has an incorrect arc, make adjustments using a small screwdriver. You can tighten or loosen the screw on top until it sprays at the desired angle.
- Runtime Settings: Schedule your lawn sprinkler system to water the grass in the early morning, before the heat of the day. Set the sprinklers to run during the pre-dawn hours and conclude before sunrise. The system should operate only for the necessary duration. Determine the ideal runtime by testing the sprinklers and measuring how long it takes to accumulate an inch of water in a container.
- Weed Removal: Eliminating weeds early in the season is crucial, as they can absorb 20–40% of the water meant for your grass. Consider weed removal services to maintain a healthy lawn.
- System Observation: Watch your sprinkler system run for the first time each year to ensure all heads are correctly angled, and nothing is amiss. Identifying any issues during this initial run allows for prompt resolution, preventing the development of brown spots later on.
By addressing these considerations, your sprinkler system will be well-prepared for the upcoming season, promoting the health and vibrancy of your lawn.