Having a properly functioning lawn irrigation system is key to maintaining a healthy, green lawn. However, irrigation systems can develop problems over time that prevent them from working properly. By troubleshooting issues with your irrigation system, you can get it back to optimal performance. Here is a step-by-step guide to troubleshooting common lawn irrigation system problems.
Inspecting the Irrigation System
The first step in troubleshooting an irrigation system is a thorough inspection. Walk around the lawn and examine each of the sprinkler heads. Look for the following issues:
- Clogged or broken sprinkler heads – Debris, dirt and mineral deposits can prevent water from flowing freely. Remove any obstructions with tweezers or pipe cleaners. Replace damaged heads.
- Leaking connections – Check where sprinkler heads connect to pipes or hoses for leaks. Tighten loose connections or replace worn gaskets or washers.
- Tilted or sunken heads – Heads should sit upright and level with the lawn surface. Adjust as needed.
- Mixed-up spray patterns – Make sure spray heads are aligned to water the correct zones without overlap.
- Blocked coverage – Look for overgrown vegetation, equipment or structures blocking the spray path. Prune or relocate obstructions.
Checking the Water Supply
Problems with the irrigation system water source can prevent adequate water pressure and flow.
- Inspect filters and screens – Clean out debris-clogged filters in valves, sprinkler heads and at pump intakes.
- Check the water pressure – Use a pressure gauge on an outdoor hose bib to ensure static pressure is between 40-80 PSI. If pressure is too low, check for closed valves or kinked pipes.
- Test water flow rate – Flow rate through each zone should be around 5-8 gallons per minute. Lower flow indicates an obstruction.
- Check for leaks – Use the meter when the system is off to detect any leaks in the supply lines.
Evaluating the Valves
Malfunctioning valves that control water flow to sprinkler zones are a common issue.
- Test each valve manually – Turn the system on manually at each valve and check that the associated zone operates correctly.
- Clean or replace clogged valves – Debris buildup prevents proper valve opening and closure. Disassemble and scrub clean.
- Check for stuck valves – Valves that stay open can cause flooding. Replace worn diaphragms or solenoids.
- Adjust valve flow control – Flow control screws fine-tune the water flow through each valve. Adjust as needed.
Checking the Controller
An irrigation controller that isn’t operating properly can cause a variety of system issues.
- Review programming – Make sure run times and watering schedules meet landscape needs and local regulations.
- Test controller operation – Manually activate each zone through the controller and verify performance.
- Check power supply – Power outages can reset the controller clock and wipe programs. Reprogram if needed.
- Replace backup battery – Power failures will cause loss of program settings without a fresh 9-volt battery.
- Update old controllers – New WiFi-enabled smart controllers provide advanced features and precision.
Diagnosing Drainage Problems
Excessive water runoff and puddling can indicate soil compaction, thatch buildup or uneven ground.
- Aerate compacted areas – Use a core aeration machine or spike aerator to punch holes in the soil.
- Dethatch heavily thatched lawns – Rent a vertical mower to remove thick grass clippings under the green canopy.
- Level uneven ground – Spread and tamp down topsoil to fill dips and low spots that hold water.
- Adjust sprinkler spacing – Move heads closer together to reduce the precipitation rate in problem areas.
How to Prevent Future Irrigation System Problems
With proper maintenance and care, you can maximize irrigation system longevity and avoid recurring issues.
- Inspect the system regularly – Do a seasonal visual check of all components to catch problems early.
- Flush the system annually – Blow out sprinkler lines in fall to remove mineral and debris buildup.
- Monitor water usage – Use a smart controller to track run times and identify leaks or other abnormalities.
- Adjust the spray heads – Tweak spray patterns, distances and angles to optimize coverage as the landscape evolves.
- Update old equipment – New sprinkler heads with pressure regulation can improve efficiency.
With a bit of DIY troubleshooting, you can keep your lawn irrigation system operating efficiently all season long. Tackling problems quickly can prevent significant damage to your lawn. For major repairs or complex irrigation issues, don’t hesitate to call in a professional irrigation specialist. Proactive system maintenance will save you money and hassle over the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions About Troubleshooting Lawn Irrigation Systems
What are the most common problems with lawn irrigation systems?
The most common irrigation system issues are clogged, broken or tilted sprinkler heads, leaky fittings, stuck or malfunctioning valves, programming errors in the controller, and obstructed water flow.
How can I find leaks in my irrigation system?
Check the water meter when the sprinkler system is off to see if it is still running, indicating a leak. Also look for overly wet or muddy areas in the lawn, which may signify an underground leak.
Why do my sprinklers lose water pressure?
Low water pressure can be caused by closed valves, kinked pipes, clogged filters, or sprinkler heads with built-up mineral deposits. Inspect all components and clean or replace as needed.
What should I do if one zone doesn’t work?
Check the valve controlling water flow to that zone. Clean or replace the valve if clogged. The valve solenoid may also need replacement if it is stuck open or closed.
How often should an irrigation system be tuned up?
It’s recommended to have a professional irrigation inspection and tune-up done annually before the peak watering season. This can identify and resolve minor issues before they become major.
Can I convert my old irrigation controller to a smart WiFi controller?
Many irrigation controller brands offer modules to upgrade existing controllers and integrate WiFi and smart technology for precise scheduling and remote access without replacing the entire unit.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting lawn irrigation problems involves methodically inspecting each component of the system from sprinkler heads to the water source. Simple DIY fixes like cleaning clogged nozzles or adjusting misaligned sprinklers can restore proper performance. For advanced diagnostics and repairs, irrigation professionals have the tools and expertise to get your system operating efficiently again. Taking the time to properly maintain your irrigation system will save water, money and countless summer days reseeding dry brown spots on your lawn.