Sprinkler issues happen, but in many cases, you can easily fix them yourself. Modern in-ground sprinklers are specially designed to be simple to adjust and repair. To keep your sprinkler system working well, be sure the heads are free from any debris and use the other repair tips found here. If your sprinkler heads are still not working properly after using these tips, it is time to call a professional for help.
Clogged Sprinkler Heads
One of the most common issues you will likely encounter with your sprinkler system is clogged heads. Cuttings from the lawn mower and debris from storms may eventually block the sprinkler heads. It is pretty easy to tell if this is the problem. The spray of the water will be interrupted, uneven or nonexistent. In some cases, the sprinkler may just leak pools of water around the head.
Just because the spray coming out of sprinkler heads is pressurized, it does not mean it is automatically self-cleaning. The good news is, it is easy to clean and fix this type of problem. Simply use a stiff piece of wire, like a paper clip, to clear the hole of accumulated debris. If the head is extremely dirty, soak it first and then clean it with a wire.
Broken Sprinkler Heads
Even though a number of sprinkler heads are designed to automatically pop up when the system is turned on and then retract when it goes off, they can often be struck by edging tools and mower blades while landscaping work is being done. This is also a fairly easy repair to make. In most cases, you will just need to unscrew the stem or head, remove it and attach the replacement.
Sprinklers are too High
If the sprinkler head is too high over the ground, it may become vulnerable to damage. This is the most common reason that sprinkler heads are broken. This can be fixed by lowering the heads deeper into the ground. Remove the sprinkler head from the ground carefully and then dig a hole that is deep enough that the head only sits about a half of an inch above the ground. Once the sprinkler is in the proper position, you can refill the hole and pack the dirt to keep it in place.
Stuck Valves
You will know when the valve has become stuck because the sprinklers will keep running after they are supposed to turn off. There are two valves on home sprinkler systems – one on each end. In most cases, some type of debris likely got stuck and is now blocking the valve from being able to close and shut off the flow of water. Check each end for this issue.
If you are unable to repair your sprinkler heads alone, be sure to call the professionals from the IDL Company. They can easily evaluate a sprinkler system issue and have it repaired so your yard remains well-hydrated and green.
