Sprinkler season is upon us. A local landscaping expert says now that we're free from cold temperatures, we're good to turn on our sprinkler systems.
"What we're really hoping to avoid is any water in the system that will freeze and break the system. So, once we're out of those freezing temperatures, then we say it's good to go,” said Kenny Scherr, the owner of Tegrity Lawn Care.
But before you get too far, Scherr said you should double-check your system. If you know what you're doing, he says you can do it yourself.
Scherr said your backflow preventer should look like this, but some models could look slightly different. Courtesy: Sprinkler Warehouse.
First, he recommends checking your backflow preventer, which should look something like the diagram to the right.
“You want to make sure that those test cock valves are closed,” Scherr said. “You want to make sure that those ball valves are now open to allow water through it.”
Then you should tighten your drains and solenoids — basically, anywhere water can get out. Lastly, turn the water on with your valve key. Scherr said most homeowners should have one.
“They have that big rod in their garage most of the time that comes with their homes, or you can buy one at Home Depot for six bucks,” he said.
If water is coming out when it shouldn't -- or if this process sounds overwhelming -- Scherr recommends calling a professional to take care of it.
As for when you should water, Scherr said to do it between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m. That way, the heat of the day can dry your lawn and help the soil absorb water.
The Truckee Meadows Water Authority (TMWA) said there are certain days you can water your lawn if you live in Reno-Sparks.
"If you have an even address, your watering days are Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday,” said Shannon Giolito, Water Conservation Coordinator, TMWA. “If you have an odd address, your watering days are Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. No watering on Mondays at all. It's a day of rest for our system."
Once your system is up and running, Giolito said you should check your smart meter through your online TMWA portal. If your usage is higher than you expect, you could have a leak in your sprinkler system.
