Top Tips for Keeping Your Irrigation System in Prime Condition

Before turning on the irrigation system for the first time in the year, homeowners should check if the water pressure is correct. A

Many homeowners rely on in-ground irrigation to promote lawn health. These systems keep the grass green during those hot summer months. While in-ground irrigation is highly effective, it does need a fair share of maintenance and regular inspections to ensure a functional and water-conserving system.

Here are the top tips to keep an irrigation system in prime condition:

Mind the sprinkler heads

Over time, sprinkler heads can wear out or become damaged due to storms. Such issues cause uneven water distribution in certain areas. If the issue persists, roots won’t absorb enough oxygen, leading to poor lawn health. Homeowners should look for signs of this problem, such as overly wet or dry spaces throughout the lawn. They should also check for any missing or broken sprinkler heads. Contact the proper irrigation or lawn care service to replace these sprinkler heads.

Check and maintain consistent water pressure

Before turning on the irrigation system for the first time in the year, homeowners should check if the water pressure is correct. A general rule of thumb would be between 40 and 65 PSI. It would also help to monitor the pressure throughout the year.

Adjust any tilted sprinkler heads

Sprinkler heads can often become crooked due to foot traffic. They’ll water the lawn unevenly at an irregular angle, leaving some patches drier. While looking for any problems, ensure the sprinkler heads are at the correct angle before turning them back on. If homeowners have issues, they should call a professional lawn or irrigation service.

Change sprinkler settings to match seasons

Some plants need more water than others at different seasons. Bluegrass lawns only need about 0.6 to 0.9 inches of water weekly during rainy seasons. However, in the middle of July, that number dramatically increases to 1.25 inches weekly. Homeowners should ensure they’re watering according to the plant’s specific needs.

Factor in sunlight exposure

It’s hard to measure how much watering a lawn needs. Next to seasonal changes, sunlight exposure can make a crucial difference. Generally, lawns more exposed to the sun will need more watering than those in the shade. Failure to provide sufficient water could result in a dry and yellow yard. However, homeowners shouldn’t overwater their yards either. This can lead to damage and potentially stunt proper grass growth.

Maintain irrigation with a lawn care professional

Keeping the yard healthy, lush, and green is a delicate balance. It requires the right irrigation system and specialized lawn care techniques. Homeowners can water the lawn themselves, but regular irrigation upkeep involves the help of a professional. Seasoned experts have the knowledge, equipment, and skill to bring a lawn to its full potential.

With over 10 years of experience in the Peoria, Arizona, area, HS Irrigation and Landscape Lighting offers sprinkler design and installation, irrigation repair and maintenance, drip irrigation, and landscape lighting design and installation. Feel free to call us at 623 292 5478.