DENVER — As the grass begins to turn green across Colorado, many are wondering when is the best time to turn on a sprinkler system for the summer season.
Denver officially reached 80 degrees for the first time this season on Sunday.
The warm temperatures are just a part of Colorado's up-and-down roller coaster forecast, which this week calls for heavy snow and increased fire danger in different areas of the state.
When should I turn on the sprinklers?
Denver Water recommends waiting until after the last freeze, typically around May 5, to turn on your sprinkler system.
According to Denver Water, Colorado will likely have at least one more night of temperatures below 30 degrees, which can damage automatic sprinkler pipes above or below ground leading to costly repairs and wasted water.
Denver Water recommends keeping the sprinklers off for a bit longer. That does not mean it’s too early to water at all.
During warm, dry periods, Denver Water recommends rolling out the garden hose and a hand nozzle and hand-watering trees, perennials and late-fall plantings.
If your lawn has brown spots, use water efficiently by hydrating the distressed areas instead of the entire lawn. Just don’t forget to disconnect the hose from the spigot in case freezing weather moves in.
If you are concerned about your soil’s moisture, check it by inserting a screwdriver into the ground; if it goes in easily, it’s got enough water.
Denver Water’s annual summer watering rules start May 1 and last until Oct. 1.
How do I turn on my sprinklers?
Whenever you decide to turn on the sprinkler system this spring, here's how to get started:
Step 1: Irrigation Box
The first step is to locate your irrigation box. It's usually outside, in the front of your house.
Open it up and look for the drain valve. Turn it off by turning the valve to the right. Cover box back up.
Step 2: Back flow preventer
Now, go to your back flow preventer to keep the water from your sprinkler system from going back into the drinking water inside your house.
Look for your ports. It's the area where the sprinkler company blows out excess water in the fall.
You will need a flathead screwdriver. Turn a quarter of a turn so they are against the pipe, which means they are closed. Make sure they are not parallel to the pipe.
Now open your ball valves. Turn the handles to the left so they are parallel to the pipe.
Step 3: Style ball valve
Locate your style ball valve. It is usually in your basement.
Tighten your port before you turn your water back on or you will have water gushing into your basement.
Open your water valve by turning it right so it is parallel to the pipe.
Step 4: Sprinkler system controller
This is usually located in your garage.
Each system is different so find directions or go online to find an owner's manual to set your sprinkler system.
If you don't feel comfortable turning it back on yourself, be sure to contact a professional.
> Top stories curated daily just for you! Sign up for the 9NEWSLETTER to get can’t-miss stories, Next and Broncos content, weather and more delivered right to your inbox.
SUGGESTED VIDEOS: Colorado Climate
MORE WAYS TO GET 9NEWS
Subscribe to our daily 9NEWSLETTER
Download the 9NEWS APP
iTunes: http://on9news.tv/itunes
Google Play: http://on9news.tv/1lWnC5n
HOW TO ADD THE 9NEWS APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE
ROKU: add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for KUSA.
For both Apple TV and Fire TV, search for "9news" to find the free app to add to your account. Another option for Fire TV is to have the app delivered directly to your Fire TV through Amazon.