Spring is the perfect time to bring your sprinkler system back online, but doing it yourself can be an expensive gamble. One misstep—like opening the main valve too fast or ignoring a small backflow crack—can trigger bursts, leaks, and higher water bills that cost far more than a routine sprinkler activation service. Below, you'll see why trusting a pro beats DIY every time and how Transitions Outdoor Services keeps Metro Detroit lawns safe and green.
The Hidden Costs of DIY Turn Ons
- Frozen or Brittle Pipes: Winter can leave hairline fractures that burst under sudden pressure. A single pipe repair often runs $200-$400.
- Backflow Device Damage: Cracks in this critical part leak every run cycle and typically cost $850-$1,750 to replace.
- Uncalibrated Zones: If heads are clogged or pointed the wrong way, you'll drown some grass, starve other areas, and waste roughly 4,000 gallons of water each month—about $25 on your bill.
- Missed Leaks and Broken Heads: It's easy to overlook slowly seeping valves or cracked rotors. Each neglected repair averages $65-$200—and that's if you catch it early.
Add those numbers up and a “free” DIY start up can quickly exceed five hundred dollars in repairs and wasted water.
How Transitions Handles a Professional Start Up
- Slow, Controlled Re Pressurization: We ease water back into the lines, preventing pressure shocks that split weakened pipes.
- Backflow Inspection: We test, tighten, and confirm the device is free of winter damage, protecting your drinking water.
- Controller Optimization: Date, time, and zone schedules are updated; rain sensor settings are checked; and run times are adjusted.
- Head by Head Tune Up: Each sprinkler head is uncovered, cleaned, and realigned. Damaged nozzles or rotors are replaced on the spot.
- System Wide Leak Inspection: We look for soggy turf or bubbling water, and address any hidden breaks.
- Detailed Post Visit Report: You receive a summary of work performed, recommended run times, and water saving tips that keep bills low.
Total time on site: about 45 minutes—no guesswork, no mess, and no costly surprises later.
The Cost Savings Math (No Spreadsheet Needed)
- Typical Pro Start Up Fee: around $95 for an irrigation turn on cost Michigan residents recognize as standard.
- Common DIY Repair Cascade: backflow replacement ($450) + pipe patch ($200) + a couple of broken heads ($150) + one month of wasted water ($25).
- Grand Total of DIY Fallout: easily $800 or more, plus your own time and frustration.
In other words, spending a small amount up front saves hundreds and protects your lawn's health for the entire season.
Book Early—Slots Fill Fast
- Crabgrass, weeds, and fungus will thrive in over- or under-watered patches.
- Grubs find drought stressed turf easier to invade.
- Repair crews are slammed, meaning longer waits and bigger invoices.
Reserve a professional start up now so your system is dialed in before summer BBQs and graduation parties kick off.
Schedule Your Sprinkler Activation Service Today
Homeowners in Plymouth, Livonia, Canton, Novi, Northville, and beyond rely on Transitions Outdoor Services for safe, efficient start ups. Skip the DIY headaches and enjoy a worry free lawn all season!
