Before J.G. Irrigation arrives for spring startup โ or if you are doing a preliminary walkthrough yourself โ use this 15-point checklist to identify known issues. Sharing this list with your technician helps prioritize repairs and avoids a second service call.
Pre-Startup Verification โ 15 Items
| # | Item | What to Look For | If Problem Found |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Backflow preventer | Cracks, leaks, missing test cock caps | Flag for replacement โ $200-$450 |
| 2 | Irrigation main shutoff | Ball valve turns freely, no corrosion | Flag โ stuck valves break when forced open |
| 3 | Controller display | Screen powers on, all zones listed | Replace backup battery first ($5-$10) |
| 4 | Program schedule | Program still saved, times correct (AM not PM) | Re-program at startup visit |
| 5 | Rain sensor | Sensor visible on house, wire intact | Check bypass switch is OFF at controller |
| 6 | All valve box lids | Lids present, not cracked, not flooded | Replace cracked lid ($10-$25) |
| 7 | Visible heads โ walk all zones | Note broken, tilted, or missing heads | List for replacement at startup ($40-$80 each) |
| 8 | Lawn surface | Soggy patches when system is completely off | Mark location โ underground leak ($150-$500) |
| 9 | Drip emitters | Emitters intact, tubing not cracked | Flag for replacement ($30-$60/emitter) |
| 10 | Smart controller | App connects, WiFi icon showing | Factory reset and re-connect |
| 11 | Head height above grade | Heads flush with lawn, not sinking | Riser extension or re-levelling needed |
| 12 | Controller wiring | Wires seated in terminals, no corrosion | Technician needed โ do not re-wire yourself |
| 13 | New tree or shrub growth | New plantings blocking head spray patterns | Note for head re-location at startup |
| 14 | Landscape changes | New beds, hardscape, decking affecting coverage | Request design review at startup |
| 15 | Last winterization report | Review any flagged items from fall blowout notes | Confirm with technician at startup visit |
When is the earliest I can start my sprinkler system in Calgary?
May 10-15 is the typical safe window in Calgary. The May 15 date is when frost risk drops low enough. Starting too early risks freeze damage to newly pressurized backflow preventers and lateral pipes if an unexpected frost hits. J.G. Irrigation books startup visits from May 10 forward. Call 587-433-4795 to schedule your May spot โ book in March to guarantee your preferred date.
Book Spring Startup โ Calgary Spots Fill in April
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