When installed and maintained properly, your lawn sprinkler system should last a long time. Due to normal wear and tear, however, your sprinklers may need adjustments or repairs. Here are common issues that can occur with sprinkler systems and ways you can fix the problem.
Replace Sprinkler Heads
You know that when a sprinkler head is cracked or it starts leaking water that it’s time for a replacement. Sprinkler heads can be found online or at home stores.
Begin by turning off the system, then dig around the base of the sprinkler head to the vertical pipe that branches off the main line, called the “riser.” Turn the head counterclockwise to remove it from the riser. Replace it with the new head by turning it until it fits into position.
Clean and Reset Heads
If the sprinkler head rises but does not spray water or sprays inconsistently, the head might be clogged with dirt.
First, take the head off the riser. Remove the plastic screen basket, which acts as a filter, at the base of the head. Clean the basket to remove dirt, and clean the sprinkler head, as well.
Once you clean the sprinkler heads, you may need to adjust them. Depending on the type of sprinkler heads you have, you will either need a screwdriver or a key to adjust them. It’s easier to tune the heads before installing them. You can adjust the watering rotation from 40 degrees to 360 degrees based on where they are positioned in your lawn.
Low Water Pressure
If you notice water barely spraying or the heads not even popping up, low water pressure may be to blame. To check water pressure, make sure the valves at the backflow device are fully open. If the valves are open, you want to check for leaks in the water line. Look for bubbling water coming up through the soil, depressions in the ground, or areas that are extremely wet.
Once you locate an area that signals a leak in the line, dig down to the water line to look for a leak or crack in the piping. Irrigation supply stores carry slip couplings that will repair the leak.
If you aren’t sure why you’re sprinkler system isn’t working or don’t feel confident in making the repairs yourself, don’t hesitate to call Challenger Irrigation to fix the problem. When it comes to leaks, you don’t want to let them get out of hand because they can cause greater damage down the road.
Challenger Irrigation is a full service irrigation company providing residential and commercial sprinkler services. We are based in Spring Hill, FL and serve the Greater Tampa Bay and Pasco County. For over 20 years, customers have trusted us with sprinkler systems installations and repairs. You can count on us!
