Spring Irrigation System Startup Guide for Homeowners

System Types We Commonly Service in San Antonio

A&W has deep experience with nearly every kind of system found across local properties—from basic 4-zone residential systems to complex multi-zone commercial installations. Our technicians are trained to quickly identify system types and perform maintenance efficiently, regardless of complexity or manufacturer.

Residential Systems

• Rotor heads are ideal for large lawn areas and rotate in a circular pattern for broad coverage.
• Spray heads are best for smaller lawns and flowerbeds, providing a fixed, fan-shaped spray.
• Drip irrigation (especially in flower beds and gardens) delivers water directly to plant roots, reducing evaporation and runoff.

Commercial Systems

• Multi-zone smart controllers help manage large properties with varying water needs and zone schedules.
• Large turf systems with booster pumps maintain consistent pressure across vast green spaces like athletic fields or business parks.
• Mixed-use drip + spray combinations for water zoning allow commercial properties to manage delicate plantings and lawns efficiently.

Whether your system is Hunter, RainBird, Toro, or something custom, we’ve got the know-how and the parts to get it running smoothly. We carry and install high-quality replacement parts and upgrades compatible with most leading brands.

When Should You Turn On Your Sprinkler System in San Antonio?

Timing matters. San Antonio’s spring season kicks off earlier than in many parts of the country, but that doesn’t mean you should rush. A good rule of thumb is to wait until average overnight temperatures stay above 50°F and there’s little chance of a late freeze, usually around late March to early April. Waiting for the right moment helps protect your system from sudden damage and ensures better watering efficiency once the system is live. Turning it on too early just because the days are warm could lead to setbacks you don’t want to deal with.

Turning your system on too early could lead to:

• Frozen pipes if a cold snap hits, which can result in cracks and water damage underground.
• Broken sprinkler heads that fail under pressure due to ice expanding in the components.
• Backflow preventer damage that compromises water safety can be expensive to fix.

These issues often go unnoticed until lawns develop brown patches or mold starts appearing in soggy areas. Being patient now helps you avoid emergency repairs later.

If you’re unsure about timing, A&W’s local techs monitor weather patterns and can help you pick the perfect window for a safe and effective startup. With their experience and understanding of regional conditions, they will schedule your activation when the forecast is stable and the temperatures are ideal.

Why Your Sprinkler System Might Not Work After Winter

There’s nothing more frustrating than flipping the switch only to find:

• Zones aren’t activating, leaving sections of your lawn dry and neglected.
• Water pressure is low, causing the sprinkler to water inefficiently or not at all.
• Sprinkler heads aren’t popping up, especially if they’re stuck from debris or damage.
• Odd noises or water bubbling from the ground can be signs of a serious underground issue.

In most cases, these are signs of:

• Cracked pipes from winter freezing that allow water to escape before it reaches the heads.
• Clogged heads or nozzles that block water from flowing out, often caused by dirt or mineral buildup.
• Damaged valves or controller issues that disrupt zone operation or timer accuracy.

These are all common issues we see in San Antonio systems every spring, especially with older setups or DIY winterizations. Many homeowners don’t realize that minor damages during the off-season can snowball into costly repairs once the system is live. A professional inspection can catch these before they waste water or damage your landscape. Our technicians take a close look at every component, ensuring nothing gets overlooked.

Spring Maintenance Checklist: What Needs to Be Done Before Startup

Before you even turn the water back on, some basic prep work can save you time, money, and hassle. Taking a few extra steps now can prevent unnecessary repairs and ensure your lawn gets consistent coverage from the start.

1. Inspect the Control Panel

• Check that your timer is set to the correct day and time. A misaligned schedule can lead to watering during restricted hours or while it’s raining.
• Replace batteries (especially if it’s a backup system). Dead batteries can wipe out your programmed schedules, causing chaos when you least expect it.
• Test each zone manually for functionality. Doing so confirms all zones are communicating with the controller and valves properly.

2. Check for Physical Damage

• Look at sprinkler heads for cracks or misalignment. These can spray water inefficiently and cause erosion around beds or walkways.
• Inspect valve boxes for rodent damage or water pooling. Burrowing pests often chew on wiring or insulation during the colder months.
• Examine exposed piping for visible cracks or separation. Even a small break can waste gallons of water over time.

3. Turn the Water On Slowly

• Don’t just open the valve all the way—slowly pressurize the system to avoid pressure shock, also known as “water hammer.”
• Sudden surges of pressure can damage joints or blow off sprinkler heads that weren’t sealed correctly.
• Opening gradually lets you monitor each part of the system for potential leaks or pressure issues.

4. Run Each Zone

• Watch every sprinkler head. Make sure it extends properly and distributes water in the correct pattern.
• Note uneven spray, non-rotating rotors, or low pressure. These are common indicators of internal blockages or damaged nozzles.
• Check the lawn for soggy patches, a sign of underground leaks. Saturated soil might not be immediately apparent, but it can lead to mold or turf damage.

5. Review Coverage Patterns

• Ensure water is reaching all areas evenly. Dry corners or overwatered areas often go unnoticed until the damage begins.
• Adjust spray direction and arc as needed. Heads may have shifted during winter or been bumped by foot traffic or pets.
• Remove overgrown grass or debris blocking the heads. Obstructions can deflect water and cause runoff or bare spots in your lawn.

How to Check for Leaks in Your Irrigation System

San Antonio’s hard clay soils and shifting foundations can lead to underground pipe damage over the winter. Pipes may move slightly with the freeze-thaw cycles, loosening fittings or creating small cracks. Here’s what to look for:

• Unexpected spikes in your water bill
  A sudden increase in usage often points to hidden leaks or overwatering caused by faulty zones.
• Visible puddling around sprinkler heads
  Even when not in use, excess water in one area usually indicates a slow leak underground.
• Zones with unusually low pressure or no spray at all
  These may be affected by obstructions, cracked lateral lines, or broken valve connections.
• Mold or fungus growth on the lawn
  Constant moisture from undetected leaks creates a perfect breeding ground for turf disease and pest infestations.

Still not sure? A&W technicians use pressure testing and smart system diagnostics to identify even the smallest leaks before they become big repair bills. Our team will also provide repair options and honest recommendations on long-term improvements.

Why Professional Sprinkler System Startup Is Worth It

Sure, you could DIY. But there’s a reason thousands of homeowners and commercial property managers in San Antonio trust A&W every spring. Professional services offer more than just convenience—they bring peace of mind, technical precision, and long-term system health. When your property’s irrigation is managed correctly from day one, you avoid costly mid-season repairs and spotty lawn growth.

Here’s what a professional startup includes:

• Full system inspection and pressure check to identify blockages or weaknesses in the piping.
• Timer programming for seasonal efficiency, aligning watering with city guidelines and weather patterns.
• Head alignment, cleaning, and replacement, if necessary, to ensure even spray and prevent water waste.
• Backflow testing, as required by Texas regulations, to protect your drinking water and maintain compliance.
• Leak detection and repair recommendations, saving you from future water loss and soil erosion.
• Watering schedule adjusted for zone needs and city restrictions, ensuring the right amount of water reaches the right areas.

Benefits of Hiring a Pro:

• Avoid costly damage from improper activation that can crack pipes or damage fittings.
• Ensure the system complies with San Antonio water regulations, which change frequently and vary by district.
• Save time troubleshooting or guessing what’s wrong with a zone that won’t activate.
• Maximize system efficiency and water conservation through expert calibration and upgrades.
• Get helpful tips and future maintenance guidance directly from certified irrigation professionals.

What Makes A&W Irrigation Different?

We’re not just another sprinkler company—we’re your neighbors. And we’ve been helping San Antonio lawns thrive for years. Our focus is on delivering reliable service, honest recommendations, and long-term value.

• Licensed technicians with deep knowledge of Texas codes and climate. We stay up to date with local regulations so you don’t have to.
• Residential and commercial expertise—we don’t cut corners for either. Whether it’s a small backyard or a large HOA, we treat every system with care.
• Customized service based on property size, landscape needs, and budget. We’ll only recommend what your property truly needs.
• Responsive scheduling—no waiting weeks for an appointment. We’re available when you need us, especially during peak season.
• Preventive maintenance plans are used to catch issues before they become emergencies. We help you stay ahead of costly repairs with regular inspections.

We’ve built our reputation one successful service at a time, and we’re proud to be a trusted partner for homeowners and businesses across the city.

Ready to Get Your Sprinklers Running Right? Let’s Talk.

Don’t leave your lawn’s health to chance. Whether you’re in charge of your backyard or a whole commercial property, a smooth spring startup sets the tone for a stress-free season.

Call A&W Irrigation Service today or schedule online for your residential or commercial sprinkler system startup in San Antonio. Our local team is here to help you get your system back on track—safely, affordably, and professionally.