IRRIGATION

Irrigation Startups and Winterization Done Right

Proper seasonal transitions protect your irrigation investment. We handle spring startups and winter blowouts so your system runs reliably year after year.

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Skipping Seasonal Service Costs Money

Charlotte winters are unpredictable. One hard freeze can crack pipes, split valves, and damage backflow preventers — repairs that cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. And starting your system without a proper inspection means problems go unnoticed until the damage is done.

Cracked pipes and fittings from water freezing in the lines

Damaged backflow preventer requiring expensive replacement

Broken valves that leak underground all season

Controller settings lost after winter power outages

Undetected problems wasting water for weeks before you notice

Professional Seasonal Service

FineTurf handles both ends of the season — a thorough startup in spring and proper winterization in fall. We check every component, make necessary adjustments, and ensure your system is protected year-round.

Complete system inspection with every seasonal service

Air blowout winterization to remove all water from lines

Spring startup with controller programming and zone testing

Head adjustments and minor repairs included

Peace of mind knowing your system is protected

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What We Do Each Season

Our seasonal services include a comprehensive checklist of tasks to ensure your system performs all season.

Spring Startup

  • Turn on water supply gradually
  • Inspect backflow preventer
  • Test each zone individually
  • Adjust spray patterns and heads
  • Program controller for spring schedule
  • Check rain sensor function
  • Identify any needed repairs

Fall Winterization

  • Shut off water supply
  • Drain backflow preventer
  • Blow out all zones with compressed air
  • Remove water from main line
  • Insulate above-ground components
  • Set controller to off or rain mode
  • Note any issues for spring
  • Provide end-of-season report

Year-Round Irrigation Care

Seasonal services are just part of keeping your system running efficiently. Consider these additional services.

Irrigation Program

Our full program includes startups, winterization, and mid-season maintenance for complete coverage.

Irrigation Repairs

If we find issues during seasonal service, we can repair them quickly to keep your system running right.

Lawn Care Services

Combine irrigation care with lawn care for a complete property maintenance solution.

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How FineTurf Works

Scheduling seasonal service is easy. Here is how we make it simple for you.

1

Request My Quote

Contact us to schedule startup (March-April) or winterization (October-November) before the busy season fills up.

2

We Handle Everything

Our technician completes the full seasonal checklist and notes any issues that need attention.

3

Enjoy Peace of Mind

Your system is ready for the season — protected, optimized, and set up for efficient watering.

Winterization & Startup Questions Answered

Do I really need to winterize my irrigation system in Charlotte?

Yes—even though Charlotte doesn’t have many freezing nights, it only takes one hard freeze to damage your system. When water freezes inside pipes, it expands and can crack lines, damage backflow preventers, and break sprinkler heads. These hidden cracks often aren’t discovered until spring, leading to expensive repairs. Annual winterization is the best way to protect your investment.

When should I schedule winterization and spring startup?

Schedule your winterization ahead of the first hard freeze, which in Charlotte typically means November or December. Once nighttime temperatures begin dropping below 35°F consistently, it’s time to act. For spring startup, wait until the soil is frost-free at least 12 inches deep—usually mid-March to early April. Starting too early while ground is still frozen can cause pipes to burst.

What does the winterization process involve?

Our technicians shut off the water supply to your irrigation system, then use compressed air to blow out all remaining water from the lines, valves, and sprinkler heads. We also open the backflow valve to release trapped water and set your controller to the off position. This ensures no water remains in the system that could freeze and cause damage over winter.

What's included in a spring startup service?

During startup, we slowly reopen your main water valve to prevent pressure surges that can damage pipes. We inspect the backflow preventer for winter damage, test each zone for proper operation, check for leaks or broken heads, and verify adequate coverage. We also reprogram your controller for the watering season and make any necessary head adjustments.

Can I winterize or start up my system myself?

While DIY is possible, professional service is recommended. Improper winterization—like not removing all water or using too much air pressure—can cause damage you won’t discover until spring. During startup, opening valves too quickly creates water hammer that can crack pipes. Our technicians have the proper equipment and expertise to protect your system and catch small problems before they become expensive repairs.

Ready to Protect Your Irrigation System?

Do not risk expensive freeze damage or start the season with hidden problems. Schedule professional startup or winterization with FineTurf.

Request My Quote