Irrigation systems can be a godsend for maintaining a beautiful lawn in Iowa. They don’t come without their risks though. Our irrigation service areas of Urbandale, Ankeny, Johnston and Polk City are not historically out of frost/freeze danger until late April/early May. Does that mean you can’t water your lawn before then? Certainly not, but it does pose the risk of irrigation system freeze damage if your water is turned on too early. Your irrigation system backflow preventer and the piping coming out of your home are the most susceptible pieces to freezing. This can, however, be minimized by either draining the backflow device or wrapping it in a towel or blanket if there is a chance for a late freeze.
That being said, we typically begin irrigation startups in mid-April and throughout the month of May. Every year is a little different, but we are usually blessed with abundant spring rains to provide lawns with enough water until late May. Most cities, including Johnston, Ankeny, and Polk City, also require you to have your backflow device tested before May 31 each year. LawnOxygen is a certified Backflow Testing company and can provide this service at the same time as your irrigation startup.
If you would like to learn more about our irrigation startup and maintenance services, or even discuss a new irrigation installation, give us a call at 515-639-0604 or request an estimate online.