Michigan Sprinkler Spring Startup Checklist for Homeowners

Spring startup is more than simply turning the irrigation water back on. Michigan winters can expose weak fittings, cracked heads, damaged backflow components, and valve problems that were not visible when the system was winterized.

1. Open the irrigation supply slowly

Opening the water too quickly can create unnecessary pressure shock. Bring the system back online gradually and watch exposed components for leaks.

2. Run every zone

Do not assume the entire system is healthy because the first zone works. Run each zone and look for heads that fail to rise, weak spray patterns, flooding, or sections that remain dry.

3. Look for hidden leaks

Watch for unusually wet areas, bubbling water, low pressure, or a cluster of heads that suddenly perform poorly. These can indicate an underground leak or damaged fitting.

4. Check the controller

Confirm the date, time, watering schedule, start times, seasonal adjustment, and rain-sensor settings. Power outages and winter shutdowns can leave some controllers with incorrect programming.

5. Adjust heads for spring growth

Heads can become tilted, buried, blocked by new landscape growth, or knocked out of alignment. Correct spray direction and coverage before regular watering begins.

Professional spring startup

If you would rather have the system checked zone by zone, Bloomfield Hills Irrigation provides spring startup and repair service throughout Bloomfield Hills and nearby communities. Call or text (248) 970-0700.