The B and D packages are kicking our butts and slowing us down, but need to be done. In years past we would go through the system and make minor adjustments and then if any heads needed to be replaced we would swing back around and get them after we got everyone’s water on. This year we are trying something new and if any heads need to be replaced we just do them on the spot so we don’t have to make a return trip. Any broken lines or major repairs are still being put off until we get the majority of systems up and running. I am contemplating going back to making head repairs afterward. We have several start-ups we do for a property management company, and all minor repairs are already authorized so we take care of any heads that need to be replaced while we are there. We have run into several properties that need new valves, and those are getting pushed back until turn-ons are complete.
We completed over 50 start-ups last week, and if we do make the change that number will increase next week. We completed 67 backflow tests over the past week, and some of them are part of our Package D’s. We expect to do another 50-60 backflow tests next week as well.
We are going to start working on irrigation systems this coming week with the city and well systems. Some customers are telling us that the water to their neighborhood is on for a few days then off again, then on, then off. That is the biggest problem with starting up irrigation systems. We think the water is on, and we get there it is off and we have to make another trip.
Also, to get a handle on our start-ups we are going to postpone lawn aerations until the week of the 26th. We like to get the spring aerations done in April whenever possible, but we have a few customers that wanted to wait until May which is fine, too. Any time you can get your lawn aerated it is a good thing.
Usually, we get a good amount of rain in April which helps keep lawns watered while waiting for us to get the sprinklers going. That hasn’t happened so far this month, so it has put an extra strain on us to get as much done as possible.
Keep watching for new posts every day so you can keep informed on where we will be and other information.
