Winter is hard on irrigation systems.
After months underground through freezing temperatures and shifting, thawing soil, your system needs more than just a flip of a switch. Lines can crack, heads can shift out of position, and valves can seize up after sitting dormant all winter.
We bring your system back online the right way — pressurizing it slowly and checking every zone — so small winter damage doesn't turn into a summer-long problem.
What's included in every spring startup.
The same thorough process, every visit — so you know exactly what you're getting.
- Slowly pressurize the system to prevent shock to pipes and valves
- Inspect every head and nozzle for winter damage
- Check valves and backflow devices for leaks
- Adjust head height and coverage after frost heave
- Run through each zone and confirm full, even coverage
- Reprogram the controller for spring watering needs
- Test rain sensors and smart controller connections
- Walk through the results with you before we leave
When to book your startup.
Turning a system on too early — before the ground has fully thawed or while hard frosts are still possible — can cause more harm than good.
Most properties in our service area are ready once the ground has thawed and overnight hard frosts have passed — typically mid-spring. Book early and we'll schedule your visit for the right week, not just the first available one.
Spring startup FAQ.
Why can't I just turn my system on myself?
Turning valves on too quickly, or before the ground has fully thawed, is one of the most common ways irrigation systems get damaged each spring. We bring the system up slowly and check for problems before every zone is running at full pressure.
What if something was damaged over the winter?
If we find damage during your startup — a cracked head, a leaking valve — we'll let you know what we found and what it will cost to fix before doing any repair work beyond the startup itself.
Do you start up systems you didn't install?
Yes. We provide spring startups for irrigation systems regardless of who originally installed them.
How long does a startup appointment take?
Most residential startups are completed in a single visit. Larger properties or systems with more zones may take a bit longer.
Serving London & Surrounding Areas
Water Works Irrigation provides spring startups throughout London, Ontario and the surrounding communities. Get in touch to find out if your property is within our service area.