Turning on Sprinkler System for the Summer

Backflow Prevention

• Every sprinkler system has a backflow prevention system, such as a pressure vacuum breaker. This device prevents water from flowing backward into your main line. In most areas, backflow prevention devices are required by law. When you turn your water on for the first time each season, water will likely bubble out of the top of these devices. That's because the system is pressurizing, not because of a leak. After you let the water run for several minutes, the bubbling out from the top will stop.

Manifold

• The sprinkler manifold is the series of valves and pipes that are located in the irrigation box outside your house. The manifold is empty after being blown out for the winter months, and you must be very careful when turning on the water for the first time each year so that water pressure doesn't damage these components. By turning on the water very slowly, you can prevent damage to the manifold and valves.

Sprinkler Heads

• When you turn on your sprinklers for the first time in the summer, it's important not to blow out your sprinkler heads. Sprinklers are connected at the base to the supply line using a device called a riser. These risers are made out of plastic, and can break if they're under too much pressure. That means you should release the water from the valves into each zone slowly by hand. Slowly turning the black solenoids on top of each valve will release water into the lines and properly charge the system.

Ball Valves

• Ball valves control the flow of water from your main line to the sprinkler system. There are usually three that need to be turned on each year. One is located inside your house, usually near where the sprinkler box is located. The ball valve turns on and off by moving the handle 90 degrees in either direction. There are also two smaller ball valves on the outside vacuum breaker. These valves must also be turned 90 degrees to release the flow of water.