Quick answer: Restoring irrigation water gradually allows piping and components to pressurize more deliberately and gives you time to notice leaks or abnormal behavior. Opening the supply abruptly can create a sudden pressure change in a system that has been inactive through winter.
Spring systems may have hidden damage
Cold weather, soil movement or aging components can create cracks or weakened fittings that were not visible while the system was shut down.
Watch while the system pressurizes
As water is restored, look and listen for unexpected flow, leaking fittings, water surfacing from the ground or valve boxes filling with water.
Then test zones individually
Once the main irrigation supply is stable, each zone can be run and checked for pressure, leaks, valve operation and sprinkler coverage.
See our spring sprinkler checklist and how a spring start-up can uncover hidden leaks.
