An irrigation startup service is essential for getting your irrigation system in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut ready as spring arrives. It begins with carefully turning on the water and checking for leaks to prevent waste and ensure proper pressure. Each zone is inspected for optimal performance, and sprinkler heads are adjusted for even coverage. This step also includes cleaning nozzles and replacing any damaged parts. Programming the controller accurately ensures each zone receives the right amount of water, enhancing efficiency. Lastly, the backflow prevention device is checked to protect your water supply. Together, these steps ensure a healthy, efficient irrigation system for the growing season.


An irrigation startup service begins with turning on the water and checking for leaks.

Leaky pipe above grass blades in Tarrytown, NY.

The first step in the irrigation startup service is turning on the main water supply to the system. This might seem straightforward, but it requires careful attention. The water should be turned on gradually to prevent a sudden surge that could stress the pipes. Once the water is flowing, it’s important to inspect the system for any leaks. Over the winter, expansion and contraction caused by freezing temperatures can lead to cracked pipes or fittings. Leaks can waste water and reduce pressure, leading to uneven watering. Carefully examining the system allows you to identify and repair any leaks early, ensuring efficient operation throughout the season.


Each zone of your irrigation system will be inspected during an irrigation startup service.

Irrigation systems are typically divided into zones, each with specific watering needs tailored to different areas of your landscape. A thorough review of each zone is essential to ensure all parts of your garden receive the right amount of water. During this step of the startup service, each zone is tested individually to assess its performance. This includes checking for proper water coverage and making sure the valves open and close correctly. If any zone isn’t operating as expected, it may need adjustments or repairs. A detailed review helps optimize your system’s efficiency and supports uniform plant growth.


Irrigation startups involve adjusting sprinkler heads for optimal water coverage.

Close up of an irrigation sprinkler head in Tarrytown, NY.

Over time, sprinkler heads can become misaligned due to ground movement or snow pressure. Misaligned or damaged sprinkler heads can lead to inefficient watering, either under- or over-watering specific areas of your garden. During the startup service, each sprinkler head is carefully inspected and adjusted to ensure proper alignment and coverage. It’s also an opportunity to clean any clogged nozzles, replace damaged heads, and adjust the spray patterns to suit your landscape’s current needs. Correctly positioned sprinkler heads are crucial for maintaining an even distribution of water.

Inspecting and adjusting the sprinkler heads is an ideal time to clean clogged nozzles and replace damaged heads.

Programming the controller is a key step in irrigation startup services.

The controller, or timer, is the brain of your irrigation system. Programming it correctly is vital for efficient watering schedules. During the startup service, the controller needs to be set according to the seasonal water requirements of your plants. This involves setting the correct start times, duration, and frequency for each zone. Modern controllers often have smart features that adjust schedules based on weather conditions or soil moisture levels. Ensuring that your controller is programmed accurately helps conserve water and promotes a healthy, flourishing garden by providing the right amount of water at the right time.


An irrigation startup service includes checking the backflow prevention device.

A critical component of any irrigation system is the backflow prevention device, which protects your drinking water supply from contamination. This device prevents water from the irrigation system, which may contain chemicals and other contaminants, from flowing backward into the main water supply. As part of the startup service, the backflow prevention device should be inspected and tested to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Any issues with the device should be addressed promptly to maintain the safety and integrity of your water supply.


Call us today to schedule our irrigation startup service!

As the weather warms up in the spring, it's time to bring your irrigation system to life. At Aquascape Irrigation, we offer our irrigation startup service to reactivate your irrigation system in the spring. A thorough process will be followed to ensure that your system comes back safely and that it is operating at peak performance.

We offer this service to commercial and residential properties, along with HOAs, in Bergen County, NJ, including Saddle River, Franklin Lakes, Upper Saddle River, Alpine, Woodcliff Lake, Ridgewood, and nearby areas. We also proudly serve in and around Tarrytown and Elmsford in Rockland County, NY, and Greenwich and Stamford in Fairfield County, CT. Call us at (845) 353-6517 to schedule this today!