How To Turn On Your Sprinkler System?

1. Confirm the Type of Sprinkler System (Startup Methods Vary by System)

2. Startup Steps for Underground Automatic Sprinkler Systems (Most Common Type)

✓ Preparation: Inspect System Components

• Turn off the main water valve: Locate the main valve near the water meter and ensure it is closed (handle perpendicular to the pipe).

• Check pipe anti-freeze status: If the pipes were drained in winter, confirm no ice or blockages (especially when starting in northern regions during spring).

• Locate the controller: Typically installed on an interior wall (e.g., garage, storage room) or in an outdoor waterproof box.

▶ Step 1: Turn on the Water Supply (Gradual Watering to Prevent Damage)

• Slowly open the main water valve: Rotate the handle to align with the pipe. First open it ¼ turn, wait 10 seconds for the pipes to fill, then gradually fully open (avoids sudden water pressure that could burst sprinkler heads or pipes).

• Open the solenoid valve: If the system has a separate solenoid valve (usually in an underground valve box), use a special key to unscrew the cover counterclockwise, then turn the valve core clockwise to the "ON" position.

▶ Step 2: Set Up the Controller (Timer)

• Power on: Plug in the controller, press the "ON" button to start. The screen will display the current time (if incorrect, calibrate using the "TIME" button first).

• Select irrigation zones:

• Press the "ZONE" button to choose the sprinkler zone (e.g., Zone 1, Zone 2), or press "ALL ZONES" to activate all zones.

• Set the irrigation duration (new users should start with 5 minutes for testing, adjusting later based on soil moisture).

• Start the program: Press the "RUN" button. The controller indicator light will turn on, the solenoid valve will power on, and the sprinkler heads should water within 30 seconds.

▶ Step 3: Test Sprinkler Head Water Flow

• Inspect each zone to ensure:

• Sprinkler heads pop up normally with uniform water distribution (no tilting or blockages).

• No pipe leaks (check valve connections and underground pipe joints prioritarily).

3. Quick Startup for Portable Hose Sprinkler Systems (Suitable for Small Scenarios)

• Connect to water source: Attach one end of the hose to the faucet and the other end to the sprinkler head (tighten connections to prevent leaks).

• Turn on the faucet: Start with a low flow, then gradually increase after the hose fills with water (prevents the sprinkler head from shifting due to high water pressure).

• Adjust the sprinkler mode: Rotate the top switch of the sprinkler head to select "rain," "fan," or "pulse" mode (adjust based on irrigation area).

4. Startup for Smart Sprinkler Systems (APP-Controlled Version)

• Open the mobile APP: Connect to home WiFi and launch the irrigation system APP (e.g., brand-specific apps like Rachio, Hunter).

• Select "Manual Start":

• Tap "Irrigate Now" on the APP interface, choosing specific zones or global activation.

• Set a temporary irrigation duration (e.g., 10 minutes) or call up a preset schedule (e.g., "3 times a week in spring").

• Check hardware synchronously: After 启动 via APP, verify on-site if the solenoid valve makes a "click" when opening and if sprinkler heads work normally.

5. Startup Failed? Common Fault Troubleshooting (with Solutions)

❌ No Water from Sprinkler Heads

• Possible Cause 1: Low water pressure

• Solution: Turn off other water-using devices (e.g., washing machine, faucets) or contact the water utility to check pressure.

• Possible Cause 2: Solenoid valve failure

• Solution: Manually open the solenoid valve core (if water flows, the solenoid coil is damaged; replace the coil or entire valve).

• Possible Cause 3: Controller not powered

• Solution: Check if the controller power cord is loose or replace backup batteries (some controllers support battery backup).

❌ Insufficient/Uneven Water Flow

• Possible Cause: Clogged sprinkler head

• Solution: Unscrew the sprinkler head, clean internal sediment or debris with a thin needle. Ensure the O-ring seal is intact when reinstalling (prevents leaks).

6. Safety and Maintenance Notes

• Seasonal startup tips:

• In northern regions, open pipe drain valves before spring startup to release winter-residual antifreeze air (avoids water blockage from air pockets).

• Water pressure control:

• The system's maximum working pressure is typically ≤80psi (install a pressure gauge after the main valve to monitor; add a pressure regulator if overpressurized).

• Regular maintenance:

• Check controller batteries annually (replace yearly as recommended) and clean the solenoid valve filter (prevents blockages from debris).

7. Extended Reading: Startup Tips for Different Scenarios

• Commercial lawns: Start zones in stages (e.g., activate ⅓ of zones each time) to avoid sudden municipal water pressure drops affecting other users.

• Drought-tolerant plant areas: Set "low flow mode" in the controller or pair with soil moisture sensors (auto-activate when water shortage is detected).