The Dos and Don’ts of Sprinkler Repair and Maintenance

Quality sprinkler systems are easy, water-efficient means to keep your yard green and lush. Their programmable and scheduled irrigation, combined with strategic sprinkler head placement ensures evenly distributed watering across the lawn. Depending on the season and need, the system can be altered to provide optimal watering in the new conditions. But they require their own maintenance in order to, in turn, continue to care for the lawn.

The following lawn sprinkler repair and maintenance tips ensure a smoother-running system that endures for years to come. While some of the tasks may be best left to an irrigation specialist, others require only a consult with your owner’s manual.

DO clean your sprinkler heads.

Sprinkler heads can easily become clogged with dirt and another ground residue. Clogged sprinkler heads impact the distribution of water across the lawn, potentially leading to patches that are drier and browner than others. Making sure sprinkler heads are clean and clear will keep the whole system running properly.

Set yourself an annual reminder to clean sprinkler heads to make sure they continue to flow water properly and that water pressure remains consistent. The process will entail turning off the irrigation system and removing and soaking the nozzle, so consult with your irrigation system manufacturer on how best to clean your sprinkler heads. Of course, always keep an eye out for any potential clogs while in use such as dry spots and no water flow, and be sure to handle the issue right away.

If in doing so you discover a damaged part leftover from the last time you mowed the lawn, follow this step-by-step on how to replace a sprinkler head.

DON’T ignore leaky sprinklers.

Similar to most plumbing issues, a small leak can create much larger problems. Not only could the lawn and garden receive too much water at the leak and too little irrigation elsewhere in the yard, but your water bill may also increase because of unneeded use.

Keep an eye on the general water flow of the whole sprinkler system. Make sure water pressure is consistent, and that there are no drier or wetter areas than others on the lawn. Take action as soon as you notice the leak in the sprinkler itself or see puddles in the surrounding lawn. You can either refer to a sprinkler installation guide for sprinkler repair steps, or contact an irrigation specialist.

DO make sure to check valves.

Sprinkler leaks are most often caused by faulty valves. These plastic parts help direct the water from its main source to the rest of the yard through what’s known as a valve assembly or manifold.

Again, similar to any system issue, signs of a valve problem will be indicated by irregular water pressure and wetter or drier areas of the yard. Check valves in both the central valve assembly and individual sprinkler heads, as well as their coordinating areas of the grass. The central assembly is either located above ground or underground, usually close to the house. Look for cracks, rips, or other signs of disrepair in each of the valves.

DO repair faulty pipes.

Effective and efficient water flow relies heavily on pipes in sound condition. Pipes are subject to normal wear and tear as well as other unfortunate accidents, such as a burst of water pressure or a confrontation with a garden spade or shovel. As with a leak, you’ll want to pay attention to water flow throughout the lawn and watch for any inconsistencies in certain areas. If the valves and other parts appear fine, the pipes may be damaged. Refer to the installation guide and any other manufacturer’s resources for pipe repair as soon as possible. Most replacement parts, including pipes, are available at big-box home improvement stores.