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Green Lawn Underground Sprinklers

Green Lawn Underground Sprinklers

Water-Saving Irrigation Solutions in Central and Northern Wisconsin

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    • Eagle River, WI
    • Lake Tomahawk, WI
    • Manitowish Waters, WI
    • Minocqua, WI
    • Rhinelander, WI
    • St. Germain, WI
    • Tomahawk, WI
    • Wausau, WI
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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Irrigation & Sprinkler System

Welcome! Here are the most common questions homeowners ask us about installing, repairing, and maintaining their sprinkler systems. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to contact us anytime—we’re happy to help.

How much does a new sprinkler system cost?

The cost depends on your yard size, number of zones, type of controller, water source and landscape layout. After a quick on-site assessment, we provide a clear, written estimate with no surprises.

Will a sprinkler system increase my water bill?

Not necessarily. A properly designed system—especially one using smart controllers and high-efficiency nozzles—often reduces water usage compared to manual watering. We design every system with water conservation in mind.

How long does installation take?

Most residential installations take 1–2 days. Larger or more complex landscapes may take slightly longer. We work efficiently to minimize downtime and keep your yard looking great.

Will my yard be damaged during installation?

We use modern trenchless or minimally invasive equipment to keep disruption low. Any disturbed areas are graded, tamped, and cleaned up when we’re done. Most customers are surprised by how quickly their yard looks normal again.

How often should I water my lawn and plants?

Watering needs vary by season, soil type, sun exposure, and plant varieties. We’ll recommend a custom schedule—and if you choose a smart controller, it can automatically adjust watering based on weather conditions.

What maintenance does a sprinkler system require?

We recommend:

  • Spring startup & inspection
  • Mid-season checkup
  • Winterization

Routine maintenance helps extend the life of your system and keeps everything operating efficiently.

What should I do if I see a leak or a broken sprinkler head?

Turn off the zone if possible, and call us. We offer fast repair service for broken sprinkler heads, leaking pipes, valve issues, controller problems, wiring faults, and more.

Should I upgrade to a smart controller?

Smart controllers automatically adjust watering based on weather, saving water and keeping your landscape healthier. Many customers recoup the upgrade cost quickly in water savings. We install Hunter Hydrawise wifi controllers, and can service all major brands.

How often should I adjust my controller programming?

We recommend adjusting programming about three times per year — spring, midsummer, and late summer. Daylight, temperature, wind, and turf conditions all shift throughout the season. New seeding or planting may also require a temporary schedule adjustment. If you have a Hydrawise smart controller, it handles most of these adjustments automatically based on local weather data.

How do I get help programming my standard Hunter Pro-C controller?

Our standard Hunter Pro-C controllers include a quick reference card and a full manual. If you need additional help, contact our office — we can assist remotely if you have a Hydrawise controller with contractor access enabled.

How many irrigation zones do I need?

Zones depend on your yard’s layout, plant types, sun exposure, and water pressure. We design your system so grass, shrubs, flowers, and drip areas all get the right amount of water.

Can the system water different areas at different rates?

Yes! Each zone is customized with the correct type of sprinkler head or drip line to match that area’s watering needs. This ensures every part of your landscape receives the proper amount of water.

Why is my system running when it's raining?

The rain sensor may not have received enough rainfall yet to trigger a shutoff. Sensors can be set to detect ¼ inch, ½ inch, or more of rain, and it can take a short time for the sensor to expand and signal the controller to stop. Over time, a sensor may also need service, a new battery, or a resync to the controller. Contact us to schedule service if the problem persists.

Do I need a backflow preventer?

Yes. Most cities require a backflow preventer to protect your drinking water from contamination. Annual backflow testing may also be required, depending on backflow type and municipality.

How long does a sprinkler system last?

A well-installed irrigation system can last 20+ years, though individual parts like sprinkler heads, valves, and controllers may need periodic replacement. Routine maintenance helps maximize the system’s lifespan.

How do I adjust or program my controller?

If you’re unsure, we can help! We offer on-site walkthroughs, step-by-step instructions, and programming support for all controller models—including smart systems with mobile apps.

How do I prepare my sprinkler system for winter?

In freezing climates, winterization is essential. We professionally blow out all lines to prevent freeze damage. For our customers in Wisconsin, we schedule sprinkler system winterizations during the months of September and October, as the growing season ends and before hard freezing.

How fast can you come out for repairs?

We offer prompt service and aim to respond quickly—often the same or next business day. Emergency slots may be available depending on scheduling. During Spring, we prioritize our Start-up Service and routine maintenance appointments may take longer to be scheduled, as we schedule further out during this peak time of year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seasonal Maintenance

We recommend three annual service visits to keep your system running efficiently and maintain your warranty:

  • Winterization (mid-September – end of October) — required at the end of every season to prevent freeze damage and maintain your system warranty.
  • Spring start-up — recommended each spring to tune the system and optimize performance before the season begins.
  • Service calls — available as needed for repairs, new yard projects, or updates.
Do I need to call each season to get scheduled?

No — new customers are automatically added to our start-up and winterization lists. We will contact you approximately one week before we are scheduled in your area. You can opt out at any time by contacting our office.

What happens during spring start-up?

Our technician will energize your system, check all components for winter damage or shifting, adjust heads for optimal coverage, test the rain sensor, and program your controller. It’s not as simple as just turning the water back on — this inspection protects your investment and maximizes water efficiency for the season ahead.

What do I need to do to prepare for a winterization?
  • Pump system: Turn your controller to the off position and turn off power to your pump. Access to the controller is helpful but not always required.
  • Backflow system: Turn off the interior water supply valve and turn your controller off. We typically tag your irrigation water shut-off valve with a bright green tag for easy identification.
What do I need to do to prepare for a spring start-up?
  • Pump system: Have the power to your pump on, and your pump and controller accessible to our technician.
  • Backflow system: Turn the water supply to your irrigation system on and have your controller accessible to our technician.
Does my warranty require professional winterization?

Yes. The system warranty covers one year from the date of installation and is void if we do not winterize your system. A full warranty statement is included in your installation packet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hydrawise Smart Controller

Hydrawise controllers automatically adjust your watering schedule based on local weather forecasts — saving water and reducing manual programming. Access and manage your system from anywhere via the app or at hydrawise.com.

Do you install wi-fi or smart controllers?

Yes — we install and service Hunter Hydrawise wi-fi controllers. Key features include predictive watering based on local weather forecasts, automatic schedule adjustments, and full remote access from your phone, tablet, or computer.

How do I set up my Hydrawise account as a new customer?

Download the Hydrawise app (available for iOS and Android) or visit hydrawise.com. You will need your name, email address, the wi-fi password at the controller location, and your controller serial number. The serial number is printed on a label inside the controller box, behind the faceplate.

I purchased a home with an existing Hydrawise controller. How do I access it?

Download the Hydrawise app, open it, select Let’s get started, and follow the on-screen prompts to link your account to the controller.

Can multiple people access the same controller?

Yes — you can add additional users to your account from within the Hydrawise app.

The app shows "not connected" - what does that mean?

The controller cannot find your wi-fi network. Common causes:

  • New internet provider: The controller needs to be relinked to the new network. This must be done at the controller location and cannot be done remotely.
  • Router moved or out of range: Try moving the router closer to the controller, or add a wi-fi signal booster.
  • Internet outage: Wait for your connection to restore, or contact your internet provider.
How do I start or remove watering?

From the home screen, tap Resume watering under your notifications — or go to Actions at the bottom of the screen and select Controller on.

How do I stop watering for specific zones?

Go to Actions and select Suspend zones. Under Resume watering date, pick the date you want watering to restart, then under Choose zones select all zones or only the specific ones you want to pause.

How do I turn my controller off entirely?

Go to Actions and select Turn off controller.

The app is asking for my serial number even though I already have an account.

You may be logged in with a different email address than the one originally used to register the controller. Contact our office — if we have contractor access on your account, we can help locate the registered email address.

What is contractor access and why would I want it?

You are the owner of your controller. Contractor access lets Green Lawn Underground Sprinklers link to your account so we can view controller status, check whether it is online, make programming changes remotely when requested, and help troubleshoot issues — all without needing to be on-site. You remain in full control and can remove our access at any time.

Proud to Serve Commercial and Residential Properties in Minocqua, WI, and

Throughout Northern & Central Wisconsin

Minocqua, WI

Minocqua, WI

Lac Du Flambeau, WI

Lac Du Flambeau, WI

Lake Tomahawk, WI

Lake Tomahawk, WI

Hazelhurst, WI

Hazelhurst, WI

Woodruff, WI

Woodruff, WI

Rhinelander, WI

Rhinelander, WI

Eagle River, WI

Eagle River, WI

Land O' Lakes, WI

Land O' Lakes, WI

Three Lakes, WI

Three Lakes, WI

St. Germain, WI

St. Germain, WI

Arbor Vitae, WI

Arbor Vitae, WI

Tomahawk, WI

Tomahawk, WI

Wausau, WI

Wausau, WI

Rib Mountain, WI

Rib Mountain, WI

Rothschild, WI

Rothschild, WI

Pelican Lake, WI

Pelican Lake, WI

Mosinee, WI

Mosinee, WI

Weston, WI

Weston, WI

Ringle, WI

Ringle, WI

Merrill, WI

Merrill, WI

Presque Isle, WI

Presque Isle, WI

Manitowish, WI

Manitowish, WI

Manitowish Waters, WI

Manitowish Waters, WI

Boulder Junction, WI

Boulder Junction, WI

Antigo, WI

Antigo, WI

  • Minocqua, WI
  • Rhinelander, WI
  • Eagle River, WI
  • Tomahawk, WI
  • Presque Isle, WI
  • Manitowish, WI
  • Manitowish Waters, WI
  • Boulder Junction, WI
  • St. Germain, WI
  • Arbor Vitae, WI
  • Woodruff, WI
  • Lake Tomahawk, WI
  • Hazelhurst, WI
  • Lac Du Flambeau, WI
  • Three Lakes, WI
  • Land O' Lakes, WI
  • Mercer, WI
  • Wausau, WI
  • Rib Mountain, WI
  • Merrill, WI
  • Weston, WI
  • Rothschild, WI
  • Schofield, WI
  • Mosinee, WI
  • Ringle, WI
  • Antigo, WI

Trust Our Team for

Effortless Sprinkler System Services

There's a reason over 30 local landscapers refer us for sprinkler system installation. From residential properties to athletic fields for local school districts, each system we design is created for the unique property it serves. Our expertise and local experience enable us to design sprinkler systems that help you save money and water based on your water sources, individual needs, and the local climate. With over 50 hours of training and continuing education each season, we gain the skills and know-how to implement new technology in ways that make modern sprinkler systems more efficient and effective than ever before.

Optimal irrigation is the key to a healthy landscape. To achieve your landscaping goals, you need a professional team that supplies you with relevant information and keeps you up to date with what's going on with your system. At Green Lawn Underground Sprinklers, we're always happy to talk to our customers. If you have questions or concerns at any time between services, don't hesitate to give us a call. We'll respond to your questions as soon as possible and even drop by if we're in the neighborhood when you call. If you're looking for effortless irrigation from a leader among lawn sprinkler companies in Minocqua, Wisconsin, get in touch today to schedule your on-site visit.

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N327 Brandenburg Ave
Merrill, WI 54452

(715) 539-1133

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