Here in Austin, Texas, there are certain types of problems that we encounter with people’s sprinkler systems all the time. These types of sprinkler system repairs are usually required following either inconsistent or a complete lack of sprinkler maintenance.
Repairing damaged irrigation systems and replacing parts is usually more expensive and complicated than routine maintenance. Thankfully, most costly sprinkler repair jobs can be avoided entirely if you perform consistent maintenance on your system.
Even when everything seems to be working fine, it pays to have the system looked at twice a year just to make sure there are no hidden issues that could become larger problems later on. (Once in the growing season & Once in the Winter months to prevent freeze damages)
With that in mind, let’s take a look at the 3 most common types of sprinkler problems that we have to repair in Austin.
1. Leaks
Leaks are the most common kind of sprinkler problem. Leaks waste a lot of water, which not only increases your water costs but also threatens the beauty of your property and landscape. Leaks in sprinkler systems are particularly bad because they frequently occur underground, where you might not even be able to detect them until it is too late.
Typically, leaks happen at valve intersections and along pipelines. High pressure or damage from impacts can cause pipes to crack. They also frequently rupture when winterization processes are not adequately applied.
Maintaining your pipes and valves can ensure that the likelihood of leaks occurring is significantly diminished. Visual inspections are an important way of determining if leaks are present. Regular inspections of the lawn for puddles, wet spots, or excessively moist areas can reveal the possible presence of a leak. Dripping or leaking valve connections are also worth noting.
If you observe significantly low water pressure or a rise in your water bills, these are two additional indicators that your system may be leaking.
Any potential leaks that are detected should be repaired immediately to minimize water waste and damage to the property. The affected area may need to be dug up to find and fix leaks that are occurring underground.
Installing a pressure regulator on your property will help prevent leaks from happening by reducing the water pressure that is applied there. Consult a professional to have a regulator installed because high water pressure is frequently the cause of leaks.
2. Zones or Sections Not Coming On
Another commonly overlooked sprinkler problem in Austin is when zones or sections of the system fail to activate. This issue is often unnoticed because sprinkler systems typically run at night. The control valves age over time and begin to fail.
The first sign that you have a zone not coming on becomes evident when you begin to see dry yellow patches on your lawn.
To prevent this problem, it’s essential to include a yearly check of all zones or sections in your maintenance routine. Ensure that each zone is activating as intended and that there are no issues with valves or timers. Timely detection and resolution of this problem will help maintain a healthy lawn.
3. Misalignments
Misaligned or misplaced sprinkler heads are another common issue that we see. This frequently happens as a result of gardening activities, weather, or animals knocking or bumping the sprinkler heads out of place.
Sprinkler heads that are not correctly aligned can cause uneven watering, which can waste water and result in inadequate coverage of your lawn and landscape.
Uneven watering issues can also result from sprinkler heads that are misaligned or blocked by overgrown vegetation. Routinely trimming the vegetation close to the sprinkler heads to maintain their clear access to the garden and the efficacy of their spray patterns can resolve this issue. Plants and grass should not obstruct the flow of water because doing so can cause alignment issues.
For the most even water distribution across your lawn or landscape, it pays to check regularly that each sprinkler head’s alignment and range are operating as intended. Check to see that they are not spraying onto any paved surfaces, walls, or rocks, or that more than one sprinkler head is spraying the same area of ground.
Your sprinklers will water effectively if you regularly check to make sure that the rotation, angle, and directional alignment of the spray pattern are operating as intended.
The sprinkler system repairs mentioned in this blog are just the tip of the iceberg. Here at Smart Earth Sprinklers, we’ve seen it all. Thankfully, we’re here to help you do proper sprinkler maintenance so that your sprinkler systems remain in good working order for longer. And if worst comes to worst and you do end up needing a reliable sprinkler repair service, you know who to call!
