Frequently Asked Questions

When do I start-up my system?

Most start up’s are typically done in May. However, when the temperatures at night no longer fall below freezing, it is safe to start up your system. Below freezing temperatures may cause damage to your sprinkler system.

When do I get my system winterized?

Your sprinkler system should be winterized prior to the first freeze. Metro Lawn Sprinkler Services starts winterizing in October. It is better to be safe than sorry. Schedule your appointment early to ensure there will be no freeze damage. If you have any doubts on whether your system should be winterized, your best bet is to go ahead and have it done.

What should I do if there is an early freeze?

If your system hasn’t been winterized, and it’s going to freeze, don’t panic. Follow these simple steps, and you can protect your system from early freeze damage. Even if you do this, your system STILL NEEDS TO BE WINTERIZED!

Do you require a deposit for new installations?

Yes,  a small deposit is typically made to move forward with scheduling.

Do you accept credit cards?

Yes, we do accept credit cards.

How do I adjust my rotary head?

There are many different kinds of rotary heads. Please click on the rotor type that you would like instructions on:

What do I do if I lost my Hunter PGP key?

Contact your local irrigation distributor or contact us to pick up another key.

What is MISS DIG? Who calls MISS DIG? When?

MISS DIG is a statewide, one call utility notification system. MISS DIG notifies the utility companies of the address where we will be digging to mark the approximate location of underground lines. Our office contacts MISS DIG a minimum of three business days prior to digging to have the underground lines marked for our arrival. Please do not remove any markings. If the marks get washed away due to weather, please contact our office right away so we can call MISS DIG to have them marked again.

How long does it take to install the sprinkler system?

Usually 3 – 4 hours depending on the size of the job. 90% of installations are completed in one day.

Do I need to be home for the installation?

Yes, you need to be home for approximately 2 hours so we can get inside the house to do the necesary plumbing, and install the timer.

In what order should things be installed? (ex. sod, sprinklers, patio, fence, landscaping, etc.)

You should do all hardscaping first (example: patio, pool, retaining walls). Landscaping can be installed before or after the installation of your sprinklers, however, if you plan on putting in a shrub zone, do not mulch, install weed barrier, or put rocks in until the shrub zone has been installed. Fence installation can go before or after the sprinkler installation. You will need a 48″ gate opening if the fence goes in before the sprinklers. Sod must be installed after the irrigation. You may install sprinklers and sod before any hardscaping but changes may need to be made at a later date, for an additional cost.

Can optional items be installed at a later date?

Yes. There may be an additional charges to the price given on your original estimate.

What type of products do you use?

Hunter, Rainbird, Toro

Is your company insured?

Yes, fully insured workers compensation and liability up to $1,000,000.

What time of the day should I water?

Early morning is usually best. The wind conditions are usually milder and water pressure is usually up. In mid summer or during a drought, you have to adjust your time so that you are not watering at the same time as the rest of your subdivision or area. Watering when it is going to be dark for a few hours can cause mold and fungi to grow in your lawn.

How often do I water my new sod or Hydroseed?

Listen to your sod company first, and follow their recommendations. Depending on the weather, you want to water 2 or 3 times per day. If it is a rainy season, you can water 2 times per day. If it is sunny and hot you want to water 3 times per day. You want the roots of your new lawn to stay wet for 2 weeks. Use your own judgment. If you have standing water, it is probably being watered too much. If your lawn is starting to turn yellow then you need to water a little more.

Same thing for hydro seeding. Listen to the hydro seeding company’s instructions first. Hydro seeding is a little more technical. You want to water 4 times per day until the lawn area starts to puddle. You don’t want to water your new seed too much because you can wash the seed away.

What is drip irrigation?

Drip irrigation is a soaker line that is placed around shrubs. Drip irrigation will only water the roots of the plant.

What happens to my controller when the power goes out?

There are three types of controllers: non-volatile memory controller, battery back up controller, and those with no back up power controller. The non-volatile memory controller can hold its memory for up to 30 days without power. When the power is restored the program remains the same and the system will restore watering at its next schedules time. Battery back up controller holds its program as long as the battery will last. Controllers with out backup power will need to be reprogrammed every time you lose power.

Will the equipment you use ruin my lawn?

No, we have machines that are made for installing sprinklers on existing lawns. Sprinkler pipe is not trenched in. Sprinkler pipe is installed using a vibratory plow method. We also have a wheel on the back of the machine that cuts the sod first so that there is no tearing or ripping of the sod.

Do you have referrals of systems you have installed with existing lawns that I may go and look at?

Yes, we have referrals. Please contact us and we can give you the address of someone in your area and tell you how long ago the system was installed.

How long will it take for my lawn to be back to normal after the installation?

Depending on the time of season, and what the lawn looked like before the installation, your lawn will be back to normal or better in 2 – 4 weeks.

When is installing a Rid O Rust system needed?

A Rid O Rust system is needed when well water (hard water) is staining your hardscape, walks or house. A Rid 0 Rust system will eliminate staining from occurring.

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