SPRINKLER SYSTEM AUDIT / START UP
Professional Sprinkler System Audit and Programming
Proper Lawn Watering is the Most Important Aspect of Organic Lawn Care
A sprinkler audit, also known as a sprinkler turn-on service, is an evaluation of an irrigation system’s efficiency, effectiveness, and overall condition. The primary objective is to ensure the system delivers adequate water to the landscape while minimizing waste and overuse.
By conducting a sprinkler audit with Organo-Lawn, we will optimize water usage, enhance plant health, and possibly reduce water costs. This process helps identify inefficiencies in the system, obvious above ground leaks, or aligned sprinkler heads that could lead to excessive water consumption or uneven coverage. We will also program the zone run times to follow the principals of the 1-2-3-2-1- lawn watering technique.
Sprinkler Head Adjustments
The Goal of a Sprinkler Audit
- Identify and correct uneven water distribution to eliminate dry spots and ensure consistent coverage.
- Note: we are limited to the design of the current sprinkler system so we will do the best we can with what we have to work with
- Detect and perform minor repairs to easily fixable faulty components, such as broken sprinkler tips or misaligned nozzles.
- Address issues like overspray and runoff to prevent water waste and landscape damage.
- Maximize the system’s existing capabilities, though design flaws cannot be corrected during the audit.
- Optimize sprinkler head angles, and spray patterns for enhanced efficiency and effectiveness.
Program the Controller to Water Deeply and Infrequently
- Visually evaluate water usage to determine if it is excessive or insufficient.
- Evaluating the lawn for symptoms of overwatering and underwatering and make necessary adjustments to the water needs based on the present indicators.
- Program the sprinkler controller using the 1-2-3-2-1 lawn watering technique to maximize efficiency and promote deep digging roots.
Our Technicians are Both Sprinkler Experts and Lawn Experts
What is Included in a Sprinkler Audit with Organo-Lawn
Detailed List
- Quick inspection of the vacuum breaker of your sprinkler system looking for damage or leaks.
- If the water is off, we will turn on the water to the system.
- Inspection of every zone in the sprinkler system by turning them on one at a time.
- While each zone is on, we will inspect each sprinkler zone and adjust heads as necessary and if the head is capable of adjusting.
- Important Note: We can only adjust sprinkler heads to optimize their performance based on their current condition. If any heads are malfunctioning, leaning, need to be raised, replaced, or relocated, we will inform the homeowner about the issue and provide an estimate for the necessary repairs, which can be completed at a different date and time.
- We will program the sprinkler controller, so each zone is watering properly according to four main factors.
- The predominant grass type in the lawn (Bluegrass / Fescue / Other).
- The sun aspect of the sprinkler zone (north-facing, south-facing, full sun, full shade, partial sun, etc.),
- The type of sprinkler head and nozzle output (pop-up, rotary, mp-rotator, impact etc.),
- The amount of coverage and nozzle output (light, medium, heavy, double, etc.)
- We will advise you about any areas that have poor coverage, broken, sunken, malfunctioning, leaning heads, etc.
- Upon completion we will email a printout with each zone run time and how to follow the 1-2-3-2-1 lawn watering technique. This printout should be posted next to the sprinkler controller in case of a power outage.
- Note: If you lose this program, we do keep a record in our database. You can contact our office, and we will email you programming for your controller free of charge.
Minor Repairs that can be Completed During the Sprinkler Audit:
- Replace a few broken pop-up sprinkler head tips (for an additional charge).
- Replace a few micro-mist sprinkler system tips (for an additional charge).
- Replace the bonnet or the pop-it in the vacuum breaker if it is broken (for an additional charge).
- Straighten one or two leaning sprinkler heads.
Replacing a PopUp Nozzle
What is Not Included During a Sprinkler Audit
- Replacing damaged head
- Straightening leaning heads
- Raising sunken heads
- Moving heads that are in bad locations
- Replacing large quantities of broken nozzles or tips
- Repairing drip systems or micromist zones
- Swapping out nozzles to adjust water output for a zone that is half in full sun and half in full shade.
Repairs and adjustments identified during the sprinkler audit will not be completed at that time but can be scheduled separately through a sprinkler repair service for an additional fee.
Major Repairs are Not Included During a Sprinkler System Audit
Does Organo-Lawn Fix Broken Sprinkler Heads?
Yes, but Only After an Audit
Yes, we can repair broken sprinkler heads, but we first need to conduct a system audit. During the audit, we will assess each zone to ensure it operates at peak efficiency within its current configuration and capabilities. If we identify any issues, we will provide a detailed estimate for repairs or adjustments, which can be scheduled separately for an additional charge.
Sprinkler Repairs Are Performed at a Later Date
- Raising sunken sprinkler heads
- Addressing mixed types of sprinkler heads (e.g., having three rotary heads and one pop-up in the same zone—each zone should have the same style)
- Replacing broken or damaged heads
- Changing low-output nozzles to high-output nozzles
- Changing high-output nozzles to low-output nozzles
With Organo-Lawn, you can be assured that we program your sprinkler controller correctly.
Important Note: Due to labor shortages we are only performing sprinkler audits and sprinkler startups for full season program customers.
Broken Sprinkler Heads
Why Do Repairs Happen at a Later Time?
Organo-Lawn is not a full service sprinkler company and our main goal with performing a sprinkler audit is to make sure the controller is programmed according to the 1-2-3-2-1 lawn watering principles.
Sprinkler Repairs Require Additional Tools, Parts, and Training
All of our sprinkler audit technicians are trained in how to read if a lawn is being over watered, correctly watered, or under watered, but not all of our technicians are trained in sprinkler repairs.
Lack of Time During and Audit
We have anywhere from 8-12 appointments during the day and we need to stay on schedule.
What Looks Like An Easy Repair Might Be Difficult
Some repairs might seem like they would only take a few minutes, but we don’t know what is underneath the soil. There could be a web of tree roots or other unforeseen issues that dramatically slow do a sprinkler head repair.
Thousands of Different Parts
Sprinkler repairs require a lot of expensive parts, tools, and training. To outfit a truck to perform sprinkler repairs is costly.
A Few of Our Techs Are Also Trained With Repairs
We do have a few technicians that are capable and have the tools to perform repairs, but it is best to have the repairs completed when they are not in a rush to get to the next appointment.
If you have major sprinkler system repairs that need fixing we can schedule a sprinkler repair at a later date or if the repair is extremely difficult we can refer you to a company that can fix the problem.
Broken Sprinklers
Sprinkler Technician
Zone Run Times - Programming for Optimal Irrigation
Zone Times are Based on Two Main Factors
Sun Exposure and Sprinkler Head Nozzle Type
- South facing exposure requires more water than north facing exposure.
- Rotary and MP nozzles require longer watering times compared to PopUp nozzles.
- Prevent under- or overwatering, which can stress plants and lead to poor health.
- Water deeply and infrequently giving the lawn ample time between lawn watering for the soil to completely dry out.
- Stimulate beneficial microbial activity in the soil.
The 1-2-3-2-1 Lawn Watering Technique Works!
Conducting a sprinkler audit with Organo-Lawn ensures that your lawn is watered according to the 1-2-3-2-1 lawn watering technique. If you are considering a full-season program with Organo-Lawn, we can only guarantee the effectiveness of our weed control and fertilizers if the sprinkler controller is programmed to follow the 1-2-3-2-1 technique.
The 1-2-3-2-1 Technique
Early Summer – Water 2 Days per Week
Summer – Water 3 Days per Week
Late Summer – Water 2 Days per Week
Fall – Water 1 Day per Week
The 1-2-3-2-1
Lawn Watering Video
We Might Identify Necessary
Sprinkler System Repairs
After the audit we might have identified opportunities to optimize the system, such as installing a smart controller, raising sunken heads, replacing broken sprinkler heads, or upgrading to more efficient nozzles. If we identify improvements or repairs we will send a separate estimate for these upgrades and fixes. Note: These upgrades and fixes can be schedule for a separate visit at a later date.
Sprinkler Repairs and Improvements Will Occur at a Later Date
Sprinkler System Audit / Startup Pricing
1st Time Audit
The Very First Time We Audit a Sprinkler System
(It Takes Extra Time)
Number of Zones – Price
1 Zone – $84.50
2 Zones – $90.75
3 Zones – $96.00
4 Zones – $101.75
5 Zones – $107.50
6 Zones – $112.75
7 Zones – $118.25
8 Zones – $124.25
9 Zones – $130.00
10 Zones – $136.50
11 Zones – $141.25
12 Zones – $147.00
13 Zones – $152.50
14 Zones – $158.25
15 Zones – $163.75
16 Zones – $169.00
17 Zones – $175.75
18 Zones – $180.25
19 Zones – $186.25
20 Zones – $191.75
For Larger System with More Zones than Listed – Please Call for Pricing
**Due to labor shortages we are only performing sprinkler audits and sprinkler startups for full season program customers.**
Returning Customer
System Has Been Audited by Organo-Lawn Within the Last 2 Years
Number of Zones – Price
1 Zone – $80.50
2 Zones – $86.50
3 Zones – $91.50
4 Zones – $97.00
5 Zones – $102.50
6 Zones – $107.50
7 Zones – $113.00
8 Zones – $118.50
9 Zones – $123.75
10 Zones – $130.00
11 Zones – $134.50
12 Zones – $140.00
13 Zones – $145.00
14 Zones – $150.50
15 Zones – $156.00
16 Zones – $161.00
17 Zones – $166.50
18 Zones – $172.00
19 Zones – $177.50
20 Zones – $182.50
For Larger System with More Zones than Listed – Please Call for Pricing
**Due to labor shortages we are only performing sprinkler audits and sprinkler startups for full season program customers.**
Optional Smart Controller Upgrade
Saves You Time, Water and From Frustration
Upgrading to a Hunter Hydrawise Smart Controller is a game-changer for your irrigation system, offering efficiency, convenience, and cost savings. This Wi-Fi-enabled controller uses real-time weather data to automatically adjust watering schedules based on rainfall, temperature, and evaporation rates, ensuring your lawn and landscape receive the right amount of water without waste.
Optional Hands-Free Optimization
You will have the option to maintain full control of your irrigation system, or you can opt for our remote management service for hands-free optimization. When we manage your Hunter Hydrawise Smart Controller, we’ll automatically adjust watering schedules—progressing from once a week to twice, then three times a week, and so on—based on seasonal needs.
Hydrawise Smart Controller
Our Database Can Communicate with Your Hydrawise Smart Controller
Additionally, our database seamlessly communicates with your smart controller, ensuring precise watering before or after lawn applications to maximize their effectiveness. For example, if an aeration service is scheduled, our system will instruct your controller to water the lawn the night before, softening the soil for deeper aeration plugs and improved results. This intelligent automation helps enhance lawn health, conserve water, and simplify maintenance.
Achieve Better Results from Your Weed Control Applications
Whether you’re looking for better lawn health, water conservation, or ease of use, the Hunter Hydrawise Smart Controller is a smart investment in sustainable and hassle-free irrigation management and we strongly suggest you upgrade your sprinkler controller.
The Hydrawise Phone Interface is Intuitive
Sprinkler System Audit Season
April 15th – September 30th
Lawns tend to show the most damage from heat and drought stress and where sprinkler system coverage problems are during the hottest months of the year. Organo-Lawn tends to perform the most sprinkler system audits in Boulder and Fort Collins from June through August.
Call Organo-Lawn today to schedule your sprinkler turn on services.
Boulder (303) 499-2000 or Fort Collins (970) 225-9425
How Long Will Each Sprinkler Zone be Programmed to Water?
Every Lawn is Unique!
When we perform a sprinkler startup in Fort Collins or Boulder, we take into account all of the following criteria when programming the clock:
Factors We Consider
- Style of Heads- What type of sprinkler heads are in the lawn. PopUp heads need less time and Rotary, MP Rotator, and Impact style heads need more time.
- Sun Exposure – Is the lawn/section of the lawn north, south, east, or west-facing.
- Type of Grass – Bluegrass, Fescue, Buffalograss, etc.
- Landscape Features – Is there a slope in the lawn or is the ground flat. We will probably set up a soak and cycle setting if there is a slope.
- Sprinkler Coverage –How good or poor is the sprinkler coverage.
- Overlapping Zones – Is there an overlap of coverage between sprinkler zones (i.e. does zone 1 get watered by some heads in zone 2)
How Many Days Per Week Should a Lawn be Watered?
Early Summer – Water 2 Days per Week
Summer – Water 3 Days per Week
Late Summer – Water 2 Days per Week
Fall – Water 1 Day per Week
Sprinkler System Audit FAQs
When Should You Turn On Your Irrigation System in Colorado?
It’s tempting to turn on your irrigation system during warm stretches in March, but we recommend waiting until April 15th or later to reduce the risk of freeze damage. If your lawn needs water before then, using a hose and sprinkler head is a safer alternative.
Early Season Watering is Beneficial!
Early-season watering is beneficial—hydrating your grass and trees in the spring promotes deep-root growth, setting the stage for a healthy lawn all season long. However, keep in mind that Colorado’s weather is unpredictable, and freezing temperatures can occur as late as early June.
Hand Watering the Lawn
Hard Freezes Sometimes Happen After April 15
That said, most sprinkler systems won’t sustain damage unless temperatures drop into the low to mid-20s for several hours. According to the National Weather Service, the average final freeze in Colorado is around May 8th. If your system is already activated, monitor the forecast carefully. If temperatures fall below freezing, you may need to perform a quick drain to protect your system.
Underground Lines Should be Fine!
After April 15th, the ground is typically warm enough that a sudden freeze won’t damage your underground sprinkler lines. However, the vacuum breaker—usually located above ground—remains vulnerable to freezing temperatures.
Learn How to Drain the Vulnerable Sprinkler Parts
If cold weather is in the forecast, take a few simple steps to protect your system. Check out the video below for step-by-step instructions on how to quickly and safely drain your irrigation system in case of unexpected freezes.
How to Protect Your Sprinkler System From a Sudden Freeze
Additional FAQs - Sprinkler System Audit
A professional sprinkler system audit ensures your sprinkler heads are functioning correctly, we help detects above ground leaks early, and most importantly we program the controller to water the lawn according to the 1-2-3-2-1 lawn watering technique.
The time required for a sprinkler system audit depends on the size of the system and its maintenance history:
- Small systems (1–4 zones): 30–45 minutes
- Medium systems (5–8 zones): 45 minutes – 1 hour 15 minutes
- Large systems (9+ zones): May take longer
If this is our first time auditing your system, expect the process to take an additional 10–20 minutes. This extra time allows us to adjust misaligned sprinkler heads and address any necessary fine-tuning to ensure optimal performance.
If leaks, broken sprinkler heads, or malfunctioning components are found, our technician will provide recommendations for sprinkler repairs (performed at a later date) and, in some cases, we can complete minor repairs during the audit.
In most cases, yes, we require someone to be home because we need access to the sprinkler controller and, if this is also a turn-on service, we usually need access to the basement, where the main sprinkler valve is typically located.
However, there are exceptions:
- If all sprinkler system components, including the controller and turn-on valve, are located outside, no one needs to be home.
- If the water is already turned on and we have access to the sprinkler controller, your presence is not required.
- If you have a Hydrawise controller from Hunter and we have full access to the online portal, we can complete the audit remotely.
If you’re unsure whether you need to be home, feel free to reach out, and we’ll be happy to clarify!
Our sprinkler technicians are highly trained in both sprinkler system mechanics and lawn hydration assessment, making their expertise highly sought after. Due to demand, our availability for new services is limited until after June 1st.
Yes! You’ll need to adjust the number of watering days as the seasons change:
- 1 day per week – Spring
- 2 days per week – Early Summer
- 3 days per week – Peak Summer
- 2 days per week – Late Summer
- 1 day per week – Fall
If You Have a Hydrawise Controller
- If you have a Hydrawise Controller from Hunter and grant us access, we will automatically adjust your watering days for you.
- We also offer Hydrawise Controller installation and setup for full-season customers (additional cost applies).
Important Notes:
- Do not change individual zone times.
- We’ll send email reminders (if opted in) when it’s time to adjust watering days.
- After the audit, we’ll email a PDF report with zone times—print and keep it near your controller for easy reprogramming.
We program the sprinkler controllers to follow the 1-2-3-2-1 lawn watering method.
- 1x per week (Early Spring): Temps below 70°F (Start–Late May)
- 2x per week (Late Spring): Temps 70–85°F (Late May–Mid-June)
- 3x per week (Summer): Temps above 85°F (Mid-June–Mid-August)
- 2x per week (Fall): Temps 70–85°F (Late August–Late September)
- 1x per week (Late Fall): Temps below 70°F (Late September–Blowout)
- .75 inches or more – Turn the system off, but don’t forget to turn it back on when needed.
- Light rain (less than 1/10 inch) – Keep the system on, especially if conditions have been hot and dry.
- Hydrawise Controller Owners – Your system will automatically adjust and skip watering when enough rain has fallen.
Colorado’s weather can be unpredictable, with potential freeze occurring outside of July and August. However, sprinkler systems are designed to withstand brief cold snaps and are only at risk if temperatures drop into the low to mid-20s for several hours. A short freeze at 30°F is not enough to cause damage.
If a Hard Freeze is Predicted:
- Prepare in advance by watching our step-by-step video on how to drain your backflow preventer to prevent freeze damage.
- We do not offer emergency pipe draining services on short notice. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to take precautions in the event of a sudden freeze.
Arrival window times are sent the day before service. (Email is usually sent between 3:00 – 5:00 PM the day prior to service. Monday services will receive an email on Friday afternoon)
We do NOT offer free return visits for all issues that may arise later in the season. Our sprinkler audits and lawn care services are designed to set your system up for success, but zone time adjustments may be needed as temperatures and rainfall change.
Free Return Visits
If your lawn needs minor zone watering time adjustments, or a sprinkler system issue was not properly addressed during the audit, we will waive the fee. Sprinkler times are determined based on the lawn condition / symptoms at the time of the audit.
Return Visit Fees Will Not Be Waived
- Obstacles blocking sprinkler heads (e.g., lawn chairs, construction materials, overgrown plants)
- Changes to the sprinkler system controller (e.g., altered zone times, modified watering days)
- Recommended repairs that were not completed or done incorrectly by another company
- Malfunctioning sprinkler controllers, malfunctioning sprinkler heads, or clogged nozzles.
- Damaged sprinkler heads or parts (e.g., mower damage, vehicle impact)
- Many more reasons (too many to list)