It's summertime, and that means the irrigation systems are working for you to make sure your yard stays lush. However, many issues can arise when it comes to an irrigation system. If it is in need of repair, make sure you address the issue before the garden is damaged! Here are some of the most common issues that you could encounter and how to recognize when you require assistance from a professional.

Slow Leakage When Sprinklers Are Off

If you stroll through your garden and spot one nozzle that is leaky after the system has been turned off, you're likely to have a leaky valve for zone control. The issue requires an irrigation technician with a license to repair the problem.

Sprinkler Keeps Operating Even After It's Set to Turn Off

If one sprinkler head persists in watering your yard after the other ones are off, it could be a scheduling error on the controller, or a mechanical issue could be the cause. Start by turning off the control. If this is successful, you've identified the root of the issue.

If the sprinkler is still running, then you need to stop the water source. The valve for shut-off will likely be located within a box, which is located in your backyard and covered by a rectangular, green lid. Make sure the valve is closed to stop the water flow, and then call us to address the issue.

Underground Water Leak

If you think you may have an issue with your plumbing but cannot locate it, it may be caused by a pipe that is hidden underground. Explore your property and search for puddles and green grass in a dead zone, as well as sunken or spots of water. The sprinkler system should be running, and watch out for bubbling, squirting, or running water. It is possible to test the soil using the length of a piece of rebar to identify softened soil. If you are able to pinpoint the location where the leak is coming from, you can contact the experts for help in repairing the issue.

Improper Sprinkler Head Height

If the sprinkler head is set too low, it will not properly spray and will inundate the area surrounding the sprinkler. If it's set too high, the lawn mower may harm the sprinkler. To correct the incorrect height of the sprinkler, remove it from the pipe and reconnect it with a swing joint or funny pipe set at the proper level.

Clogged Sprinkler Nozzles

Monitor your irrigation system while it runs. If one nozzle does not spray correctly and is damaged, turn off the system and take out the nozzle that is affected. Take care when doing this, and do not use a screwdriver to avoid damage to the nozzle. Clean it off to get rid of any dirt or other particles, and then reconnect the nozzle. The problem has likely been resolved. If not, consult an expert for assistance.

Low System Capacity

The capacity of the system determines the flow rate of water, which should be enough to satisfy the requirements in your backyard. If one zone isn't fully occupied, the sprinklers in the area won't be able to spray at the same rate as they ought to. The capacity may be too small when the system was constructed in a way that was not optimal at the start. It could also decrease in the event that you include rotors or heads in an area since it was initially put in place.

The most effective method to fight lower capacity when you've installed heads on your lawn is by replacing them with smaller volume nozzles. You'll have to keep watering your lawn for longer to get this done, but it will restore the amount of coverage you require. If you've not yet put in heads and your capacity isn't yet sufficient, contact us for assistance to solve the issue.