Common Sprinkler Problems and How to Fix Them at Plano, Texas

A healthy, lush lawn is every homeowner’s dream, but issues with your sprinkler system can quickly make that dream seem out of reach. Whether it’s dry patches of grass, noisy sprinkler heads, or water not reaching all areas evenly, understanding common sprinkler problems can save you time, frustration, and money.

Here are five frequent sprinkler system issues, how to detect them, and what steps you can take to resolve them.

1. Sprinkler Head Heights

Sprinkler head height may seem like a minor detail, but it’s critical for uniform watering. Heads that sit too high above the ground can become easily damaged by lawnmowers or foot traffic. However, if they’re set too low, they may not spray water effectively, leaving parts of your lawn dry.

How to Address It

Check each sprinkler head to ensure it’s level with or slightly above the ground. Use a ruler or similar tool to measure and adjust as needed.
If the sprinkler is mounted too low, raise it by removing soil carefully around the head, adding a riser or extension, and screwing it back into place.
For heads mounted too high, shorten the riser or purchase a lower-profile head for better protection.

2. Noisy Sprinkler Heads

A noisy sprinkler head might not just be an annoyance but also a symptom of an underlying issue. High-pitched squealing or loud gurgling noises often indicate problems like dirt or debris trapped inside the sprinkler head, poor water pressure, or worn-out parts.

How to Address It

Turn off the water and inspect the problematic sprinkler head. Unscrew it and check for debris that may be clogging the nozzle or filter. Clean these thoroughly before reinstalling.
If the noise persists, assess your system’s water pressure. Excessively high pressure can strain the sprinkler heads and other system components. Use a pressure regulator to bring it down to an optimal level, typically between 30-50 PSI.
Replace noisy or worn-out heads if cleaning and pressure adjustment don’t solve the problem.

3. Water Hammer

Water hammer refers to the loud banging or thumping noise that happens when water suddenly stops or changes direction in your pipes. Over time, water hammer can damage pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads.

How to Address It

Install a water hammer arrester, a device that cushions the force of water moving through the system, reducing the pressure surges.
Check your system’s valves, as improperly closed valves or ones that open and close too quickly can cause water hammer. Adjust the valve speed for a smoother water flow.
Consider lowering water pressure if it’s above recommended levels, as this can also lead to pressure spikes and water hammer.

4. Dry Spots in Your Lawn

Dry spots are one of the most common signs of a sprinkler system that’s not performing optimally. These patches may indicate an issue with water distribution.

How to Address It

Examine your sprinkler heads to ensure they’re not clogged or damaged. Clean or replace them as necessary.
Check for misaligned heads. A simple adjustment can often fix the irrigation path to cover dry areas adequately.
Inspect your water pressure. If pressure is too low, water may not reach all areas of your lawn. Booster pumps can increase pressure, or you can work with a professional to modify your system layout for optimal performance.
Consider adding more sprinkler heads or redesigning the layout to eliminate any coverage gaps.

5. Non-Rotating Sprinkler Heads

Rotary sprinkler heads are supposed to spin, distributing water evenly over their coverage area. If one of your sprinkler heads stops rotating, it’s often due to dirt, debris, or wear and tear inside the mechanism.

How to Address It

Start by cleaning the sprinkler head. Turn off the system, unscrew the head, and remove any debris clogging the gears or nozzle. Replace it and test to see if rotation works again.
If cleaning doesn’t help, the head’s internal gears may be broken. Replace the sprinkler head with a new one to restore normal operation.
Ensure proper water pressure, as inadequate pressure can prevent heads from rotating efficiently.

When to Call for Professional Help

While many of these issues are manageable with some DIY effort, others may require expert attention. For instance, complex problems with water pressure, system design flaws, or persistent malfunctions often benefit from a professional’s expertise.

At Plano Sprinkler Repair, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing all kinds of sprinkler system issues. Our team works with homeowners to improve irrigation performance, conserve water, and keep lawns in pristine condition. Whether you’re dealing with minor annoyances or major repairs, we’re here to help.

Contact Us for Plano Sprinkler Repair Today!

Call us at (469) 609-1700 or visit our website at https://planosprinklerrepair.com/ to schedule your service appointment. A well-maintained sprinkler system is just a call away!