How Often Should You Schedule Irrigation System Service?

Maintaining a healthy and beautiful lawn requires more than just regular mowing and seasonal fertilizing. One of the most crucial yet often overlooked elements is the irrigation system service. Homeowners frequently ask: “How often should I schedule service for my irrigation system?” The answer depends on various factors, but generally, twice a year is recommended — once in the spring and once in the fall.

Why Regular Irrigation System Service Is Important

An efficient irrigation system ensures your lawn and garden get the right amount of water without waste. Poorly maintained systems can lead to overwatering, underwatering, or even damage to your landscaping. Regular service helps detect and fix issues such as leaks, broken sprinkler heads, clogged nozzles, and malfunctioning timers before they cause bigger problems.

If you're investing in lawn mowing services or have recently invested in pest control services, failing to maintain your irrigation system can undo all the good work. For instance, overwatering can invite pests and fungi, while underwatering can leave your grass brittle and unattractive.

Ideal Times for Irrigation System Service

1. Spring Startup (Early to Mid-Spring):
   As temperatures start rising and your lawn comes out of dormancy, it’s time to restart your irrigation system. A spring service visit usually includes:

   • Inspecting for winter damage

   • Adjusting sprinkler heads

   • Checking for leaks

   • Programming the controller for spring watering schedules
     This ensures your lawn gets a strong, healthy start for the growing season.

2. Fall Shutdown (Late Fall):
   Before winter sets in, it’s essential to shut down the system properly. This involves:

   • Draining water from pipes

   • Blowing out the lines with air

   • Turning off the controller
     Winterization prevents pipes from freezing and bursting — a costly repair you’ll definitely want to avoid.

Monthly Inspections Are a Good Habit

While biannual professional services are critical, performing a quick monthly inspection yourself can catch problems early. Look for:

• Uneven spray patterns

• Pooled water or dry spots

• Sprinklers spraying sidewalks or driveways
  These issues can often be fixed with a simple adjustment or nozzle replacement.

Climate Considerations in Vancouver

For residents looking for reliable lawn care Vancouver, regular irrigation system maintenance is especially important. The Pacific Northwest has a unique climate — wet winters and dry summers — which means irrigation needs can shift dramatically throughout the year. During the dry summer months, a well-functioning system becomes essential to prevent your lawn from turning brown or dying out.

Integrating with Other Lawn Services

A well-maintained irrigation system complements other services such as lawn mowing services and pest control services. For example:

• Proper watering supports even grass growth, making mowing more effective.

• Avoiding excessive moisture helps reduce pests like mosquitoes and lawn fungi.

If you're already investing in the overall health of your lawn, it makes sense to include irrigation system service in your routine care plan.