How to turn on an automatic sprinkler system for Spring?

Question:I just closed on a house this week and the backyard has a sprinkler system installed ... I was wondering if there is anything I need to know prior to turning it on for the spring time? Should I be wary of opening the water valve myself?

Answers:
If it is an automatic sprinkler system with a timer I would 1) read the timer instruction manual so you will know how to set/operate it (if you don't have the manual, try to locate it online from the company), 2) replace the battery to make sure it is good, 3) set the time and date correctly, 4) make sure the start and stop times are what you want for each zone (no over watering or under watering).

As far as the plumbing is concerned, I would 1) be sure it has a anti-siphon valve attached (keeps sprinkler system water from entering the drinking water), 2) Turn the water supply valve slowly, looking for leaks (repair as needed), 3) check the sprinkler heads to make sure they are not clogged or missing (clean or replace as needed), 4) make sure the sprinkler heads are covering the areas you wish to cover (the pattern is right and the distanced they are spraying is neither too long or too short).

After these, I would make sure that the timer will actually turn on and off the water valves (replacing them as necessary).

Once everything is running right, keep an eye on things that may indicate the timer or valves are not working (no water to all or some zones), that the sprinkler heads are not clogged or damaged (one spot not getting water), that you don't have an underground leak (water coming up through the soil when the system is on), that the spray pattern is correct (no spots that are not getting water), and that the start and stop times are right (watering at the right times, not over or under watering).

That is about all I can think of. Good luck!