1)  Winterize you system early - don't get caught by an early freeze in October and have your system become damaged.

2)  There is no need to turn your system on too early, there is usually plenty of timely rains in the spring, there is no need to waste water.

3)  If your system won't come on check these simple things first:

            A)  Is the water to the system on

            B)  Is there power to the timer

            C)  Did it just rain - Check the rain sensor

            D)  Has anyone been digging in the yard and maybe cut a wire