When safely returning irrigation systems to operation after winterization, I try to think in a systematic approach called FLOW, which stands for Follow Logical Operational Wave. I also base it on the concept of "beginning with the end in mind," as Steven Covey mentions in The Seven Habits of Successful People.The first step is to find your water source (whether it's a pump or backflow preventer from a city water source) and partially open it to slowly fill the mainline to prevent water hammer and subsequent damage to pipes. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for start-up or priming of pumps. Even if it has a well, try to throttle back the flow with a gate or ball valve to restrict the flow.
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