Irrigation Spring Startup Checklist for SC Homeowners

Turning your irrigation system back on for the season isn't as simple as flipping a switch. Winter — even Upstate SC's relatively mild winters — can leave you with cracked fittings, shifted heads, and programming that was last touched in October. Run through this checklist before you let it run unattended.

Step 1: Inspect the Backflow Preventer

The backflow preventer is usually the most vulnerable part of your system to freeze damage. Before anything else, visually inspect it for cracks, splits, or moisture staining that wasn't there last fall. If you see damage, don't turn the system on — call a professional first. A cracked backflow preventer will run water continuously and can cause significant water waste or property damage.

Step 2: Slowly Pressurize the System

Open the main shutoff valve slowly — not all at once. Rapid pressurization after months of empty lines can hammer your system and blow fittings. Turn it to about 1/4 open, wait 30 seconds, then slowly continue to full open. You're looking for the sound of water filling lines, not any sudden gushing or pressure drops.

Step 3: Run Each Zone and Walk It

Run each zone for 2–3 minutes while you physically walk and watch. Look for: broken or tilted heads (common after winter ground movement), heads that spray in the wrong direction, zones that lose pressure quickly (indicating a broken line underground), and dry spots that might indicate a clogged nozzle or head that's not popping up.

Step 4: Check the Controller and Programming

Confirm the controller date and time are correct — power outages over winter can reset the clock. Review the programming schedule and adjust for early spring (you'll need far less run time in April than in July). For smart controllers, check that the WiFi connection and weather station are active. Program rain sensor tests to confirm they're interrupting runs properly.

Step 5: Inspect Drip Zones Carefully

Drip irrigation emitters are more vulnerable to damage and clogging than spray heads. Run your drip zones and physically check each emitter for proper output. Mice and voles sometimes nest in drip tubing over winter and can chew through lines. Flush drip systems at the end of each zone before checking emitter output.