An automated sprinkler system provides a precise method for delivering water, supporting landscape health and promoting water conservation. Programming the system allows users to tailor watering schedules to specific plant needs and changing weather conditions. Proper management prevents overwatering, which can lead to runoff and fungal diseases, ensuring water is used efficiently.
Identifying Key System Components
The Controller/Timer functions as the system’s brain, typically mounted indoors or in a sheltered area. This electronic interface stores the programmed watering schedule, including the days, start times, and duration for each section of the property. The controller sends a low-voltage electrical signal to the zone valves, initiating the watering cycle.
The Zone Valves are the heart of the system, acting as automated gates that regulate water flow to specific areas. Each valve is connected to the controller via electrical wiring and opens when it receives a signal, allowing pressurized water to flow into a designated zone of pipes. Using a pressure differential, a solenoid within the valve lifts a seal, releasing the water to the sprinkler heads.
The Sprinkler Heads are the output devices that distribute water across the landscape. They come in various forms, such as fixed spray heads for smaller areas or rotor heads for wider coverage. Proper adjustment is necessary to ensure uniform coverage and avoid wasting water on sidewalks or driveways.
Programming the Automatic Watering Schedule
Programming begins by ensuring the controller has the correct current time and date set, often by rotating a dial to a “Set Clock” or “Time/Date” position. Once the time is accurate, the user proceeds to the core programming functions. Most controllers utilize programs (A, B, or C) to allow different schedules for areas with varying water needs, such as a lawn versus a flower bed.
Start Time
The next step involves setting the Start Time, which dictates when a chosen program will begin watering. It is recommended to set a start time in the early morning, before 10 a.m., to minimize water loss from evaporation and reduce the risk of promoting fungal growth on wet foliage. A single program can have multiple start times, which is useful for “cycle and soak” watering to prevent runoff on sloped areas or clay soils.
Zone Run Time
After defining the start time, the user must set the Zone Run Time (duration) for each station within the program. This determines how long the valve for a specific area remains open, with run times varying significantly based on the type of sprinkler head and soil conditions. Spray heads, which apply water quickly, might run for 3 to 10 minutes, while rotor heads, which apply water more slowly, may require 20 to 40 minutes to deliver an equivalent amount of water.
Watering Days
The final step is establishing the Watering Days or frequency, typically set using a “Schedule” function. Controllers allow for selecting specific days of the week or setting an interval, such as watering every third day. Watering less frequently but more deeply promotes deeper root development for healthy lawn growth. Once all parameters are set, the user must turn the controller dial to the “Run” or “Auto” position to activate the automated schedule.
Running Zones Manually
It is sometimes necessary to override the automatic schedule for system testing, repairs, or spot-watering dry patches. This is done using the controller’s manual operation mode, often labeled “Manual,” “Semi-Auto,” or “Test.” On dial-based controllers, the user rotates the dial to this manual position.
The interface will then prompt the user to select a specific zone or station number and input a desired run time in minutes. This action immediately sends the signal to open the corresponding zone valve, causing the sprinklers in that area to activate for the set duration. For a quick check of the system, a manual run time of one to two minutes is usually sufficient.
Some controllers allow manually running an entire program, useful for seasonal system startup checks. After a manual cycle is initiated, the controller returns to automatic operation once the temporary run time expires. A manual cycle can be stopped prematurely using the “Off” or “Stop” function.
Adjusting and Maintaining Sprinkler Heads
Adjusting the physical sprinkler heads ensures water is delivered precisely where needed, improving water efficiency. The two primary adjustments are the radius (the distance the water sprays) and the arc (the pattern or angle of spray). These adjustments are typically made while the system is running so the user can observe the spray pattern.
Adjusting Radius
To adjust the radius, a small flat-head screwdriver or specialized key is inserted into a screw on the top of the nozzle. Turning the screw clockwise decreases the spray distance by deflecting the water stream, while turning it counter-clockwise increases the distance.
Adjusting Arc
The arc of a rotor head defines the angle of rotation. It is adjusted by holding the head at its right stop position and inserting the adjustment tool into a keyhole or socket. Turning the tool clockwise increases the arc, allowing the user to set the pattern up to a full 360-degree circle. Spray heads have a fixed pattern and may require a nozzle replacement to change the arc.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance includes checking for clogged nozzles, which can be cleaned by briefly removing the nozzle and rinsing out debris. Broken or damaged heads should be replaced to restore proper water application. Ensuring all heads are correctly aligned and spraying head-to-head provides the most uniform coverage.