How to Prepare Your Sprinkler System for the Summer Heatwave

As temperatures start to soar in June, the intense summer heat can take a serious toll on your lawn and your sprinkler system. Preparing your irrigation system is essential before the next heatwave hits. Proper maintenance helps conserve water, protects your landscaping investment, and ensures your yard stays healthy through the season’s hottest months.

Here’s how to get your sprinkler system ready for the summer heat, step-by-step.

Step 1: Inspect the Entire System

Before you do anything else, take a walk around your property and give your sprinkler system a thorough visual inspection. This first step is essential for spotting minor issues before they become major (and costly) problems during a heatwave.

Start by checking all sprinkler heads for visible cracks, clogging, or misalignment. Even a slightly tilted head can result in uneven coverage, leading to dry spots on your lawn or wasted water on sidewalks and driveways.

Next, inspect your controller. Make sure the settings are current and that all scheduled zones are activating properly. A malfunctioning timer can mean your yard isn’t getting watered when it needs it most, or worse, getting overwatered during the heat of the day.

Look closely for signs of leaks or broken lines, such as pooling water, unusually wet patches, or areas of your lawn that seem overly lush compared to the rest. These are often telltale signs that a pipe or joint needs attention.

Finally, don’t forget to test the rain sensor, if you have one installed. This smart little device prevents the system from running during or after rainfall—a simple way to avoid wasting water and protect your landscape from overwatering.

If you’re unsure about what to look for or don’t feel confident handling a full system inspection on your own, American National Sprinkler & Lighting is here to help.

We always stress the value of early, proactive system checks, especially at the start of the summer season. Catching signs of wear and tear early can save you from costly repairs down the line and ensures your system runs smoothly and efficiently when the summer heat is at its peak.

Step 2: Clean and Replace Components

As the summer heat intensifies, your sprinkler system needs to be operating at peak efficiency to keep your lawn healthy and green. Even minor buildup or wear can lead to uneven watering, wasted water, or stressed turf, especially during a heatwave.

Start by cleaning out your spray heads and filters. Dirt, grass clippings, and debris can clog nozzles and disrupt spray patterns, leading to dry patches or oversaturation in some areas. A quick rinse with water and a soft brush can often do the trick.

Next, take a close look at each nozzle. If you notice cracks, mineral buildup, or poor spray performance, it’s time to replace damaged or worn nozzles. These small components play a big role in ensuring your system delivers water evenly and efficiently across your lawn and garden beds.

Don’t forget to inspect the valves and rubber seals, especially those exposed to direct sunlight. High summer temperatures can accelerate wear and cause these parts to dry out, crack, or become brittle, which may result in leaks or inconsistent pressure.

Keeping your system clean and well-maintained not only conserves water, it helps ensure every area of your yard receives the proper coverage it needs to thrive, even in extreme heat.

Step 3: Adjust Watering Times for Heat Efficiency

One of the most effective ways to protect your lawn and reduce water waste is adjusting your watering schedule for the season.

Water early in the morning or late in the evening. This reduces evaporation and gives plants time to absorb moisture before the sun’s heat intensifies.
Use shorter, more frequent cycles to allow water to soak in slowly, especially in clay-heavy soils.
Customize your settings for different zones—lawns, shrubs, and garden beds have different needs.

If your current controller is outdated, inconsistent, or hard to manage, this is the perfect time to consider upgrading to a smart irrigation system. These systems automatically adjust your watering schedule based on local weather forecasts, soil moisture levels, and even sun exposure. They take the guesswork out of summer watering and help you conserve water without sacrificing plant health.

At American National Sprinkler & Lighting, we install and configure smart controllers that make seasonal adjustments seamless—ensuring your yard gets exactly what it needs, when it needs it.

Step 4: Prevent Common Summer Sprinkler Problems

When your sprinkler system runs more frequently to keep up with summer’s intense heat, it naturally becomes more vulnerable to wear, inefficiency, and breakdowns. Staying ahead of common problems can help you avoid costly damage and ensure your lawn stays healthy all season long.

Watch for Overwatering and Underwatering

It’s important to monitor your lawn closely during extended hot spells:

Brown patches can signal dry spots, possibly due to a misaligned sprinkler head or poor coverage.
Soggy or overly lush areas might indicate a hidden leak or overwatering.
Try the screwdriver test. Insert a screwdriver into the soil. If it slides in easily, your lawn has enough moisture. If not, it’s time to make adjustments to your schedule or coverage.

Protect Valves and Backflow Preventers

Valves and backflow preventers are essential for safe and efficient operation, but they’re especially susceptible to damage in extreme heat:

Direct sun exposure can cause plastic components to warp or rubber seals to degrade faster.
Use shade covers or insulation wraps to keep these parts protected and functioning properly.
Just as important, be sure to schedule annual backflow testing, which is required in many areas to prevent contamination of your home’s water supply.

At American National Sprinkler & Lighting, we offer certified backflow testing services to help you stay compliant and protect your system year-round.

Monitor Water Pressure

Water pressure can fluctuate during peak summer usage hours, especially in residential neighborhoods:

Low pressure may lead to weak, uneven spray and poor coverage.
High pressure can cause misting, which wastes water and reduces effectiveness, and may even damage your sprinkler heads.
If your system doesn’t already include one, consider installing a pressure regulator to maintain consistent performance and water efficiency.

Keeping a close eye on these common issues and taking action early will keep your system running smoothly when it matters most.

Step 5: Know When to Call the Pros and Beat the Heat with a Summer-Ready System

While regular DIY maintenance can go a long way, some sprinkler issues are best left to the professionals. Persistent leaks, wiring complications, poor water coverage, or inconsistent performance often point to deeper system problems that require expert evaluation.

Thinking of upgrading to smart irrigation controls or expanding your system to support new landscaping?

Professional installation ensures everything runs efficiently and is set up for long-term success—especially when dealing with heat-sensitive components and programming.

That’s where American National Sprinkler & Lighting comes in. Our experienced technicians are here to make sure your system is fully optimized and ready to handle the demands of summer. We offer everything from seasonal tune-ups to complete upgrades and certified backflow testing.

Don’t wait for your grass to turn brown or your water bill to skyrocket. With a little early attention and expert assistance, your sprinkler system can withstand the heat and keep your lawn green, lush, and thriving throughout the summer.

Posted in Lawn Sprinkler System