If you want a lush, healthy lawn and garden, your irrigation system plays a critical role. But just like any mechanical system, it needs regular care to perform at its best. So, how often should you service your irrigation system? The short answer: at least twice a year — once in the spring and once in the fall — with occasional checkups in between.
Let’s break it down by season and situation so you know exactly what to expect and why it matters.
Spring: The Most Important Service of the Year
As winter fades and the growing season begins, a spring irrigation system startup is essential. This service includes:
- Inspecting and turning on the water supply
- Checking for freeze damage or cracked pipes
- Testing sprinkler heads for proper spray patterns and coverage
- Adjusting zones and controllers for seasonal needs
- Making sure backflow preventers are working properly
Spring is the perfect time to catch issues caused by freezing temperatures or worn-out components before you start watering regularly.
Tip: Always schedule your spring irrigation service before your lawn or landscape needs full watering. This is usually early to mid-April on Long Island or in similar Northeast regions.
Mid-Season Checkups (Optional, but Smart)
If your lawn sees heavy use or you notice patchy areas, pooling, or rising water bills, a mid-season checkup (usually around July) can be very helpful.
This visit often includes:
- Fine-tuning water pressure and timing
- Replacing damaged or clogged sprinkler heads
- Ensuring plant zones are getting the right coverage
- Updating smart controller settings based on weather patterns
Think of it like a tune-up for your irrigation system. It keeps everything efficient and effective, especially during peak watering months.
Fall: Winterizing Your Irrigation System
Before the first freeze, every homeowner or property manager in colder climates should schedule a fall irrigation system winterization.
This service typically involves:
- Shutting off the water supply
- Blowing out all sprinkler lines with compressed air
- Draining backflow preventers and valves
- Protecting exposed pipes and components
Failing to winterize properly can lead to cracked pipes, broken valves, and costly repairs come spring.
Pro Tip: Book your winterization early. Appointment slots fill up quickly once the first cold snap hits.
Extra Situations That Call for Service
Besides regular seasonal service, there are other times you should call your irrigation professional:
- After new landscaping or changes to garden beds
- If water bills spike unexpectedly
- When you notice leaks, flooding, or dry spots
- Following severe storms that may dislodge components or clog heads
Being proactive saves money in the long run and protects your investment in both your irrigation system and your landscaping.
How Often Is “Often Enough”?
Here’s a quick reference guide:
If you’re unsure whether your system needs attention, it probably does. A small leak or misaligned sprinkler head might not seem like a big deal, but over time, it can waste thousands of gallons of water and damage your lawn.
Trust Local Experts to Keep Things Running Smoothly
At Irrigation Solutions, we’ve helped homeowners and businesses across Holbrook, Montauk, Setauket, and all of Suffolk County maintain and service their irrigation systems for over 25 years. Whether it’s a seasonal checkup or an emergency repair, our expert team is ready to keep your lawn green, your water bills low, and your system running efficiently.
Call us today to schedule your irrigation service online before the rush hits.
Key Takeaways
Service your irrigation system at least twice a year: in the spring and in the fall.
Spring startups prepare your system after winter. Fall winterization protects it before freezing weather.
Optional mid-season checkups help improve efficiency and performance during the hottest months.
Watch for signs of trouble like high water bills, soggy patches, or dry spots between visits.
