Sprinkler systems are great for keeping your lawn nice and green, especially through the hot summers. However, there may come a time when your sprinkler system is no longer functioning as it should. Sometimes, a quick repair is enough to keep it running again. But other times, it may be a sign you need to replace it with a new sprinkler system.
Your Sprinkler System Is Over 25 Years Old
All things eventually come to an end, and your sprinkler system is no exception. While sprinkler systems can typically last a long time with proper maintenance, the wear and tear will eventually get to them.
The lifespan of sprinkler systems may vary, but you can expect it to last for roughly 25 years. Beyond that, you may start to encounter problems with it, such as frequent breakdowns.
If you’ve bought an old home and the sprinkler system already came with it, then it might be time for an upgrade. Thankfully, newer sprinkler systems are more cost-effective and energy-efficient than older ones. So, an upgrade might not be such a bad idea after all.
Increased Water Bills
If you’ve noticed an increase in your water bills in recent months, the culprit may be a faulty sprinkler system. Perhaps the system has become less efficient with wear and tear. This could mean your sprinkler system is requiring more water to do its job.
You can call a professional to check whether the problem is isolated in one area of the system or if it’s the entire system’s fault. If it’s the latter, you may want to schedule a sprinkler system installation to replace your current one.
Leaking
You can expect a few leaks from time to time. And often, these leaks are easily repairable. However, if the leaking has become more frequent, you may face a bigger problem. When constant sprinkler system repair is not enough, it may be time for a replacement.
Low Water Pressure
The water pressure is essential for your sprinklers to do the job right. If the water pressure is too low, the sprinklers may not be able to project the water as far as you need it to. On the other hand, too much water pressure can quicken the wear and tear of your sprinkler system.
If the problem lies in just one section of the sprinkler system, something may have malfunctioned. It’s best to check the control valves and regulators to see if there’s something wrong. If the valves are fine, the problem may be in the irrigation pipes. It’s quite possible that your pipes have been affected by tree roots or shifting ground.
If nothing seems to be amiss, it might just be wear and tear from age. In this case, it’s best to replace the sprinkler system entirely.
Poor System Design
Sometimes, a sprinkler system is not well-designed. This could lead to dry spots on your lawn, as water may not be reaching the entirety of the area. Or your sprinklers may overshoot your lawn and spray off- target.
If the problem is only caused by your sprinkler heads shifting out of position, you can simply remedy it by readjusting them. However, if your sprinkler system has always been that way, it may just not be aptly designed for your lawn. If this is the case, you might want to consider replacing it.
Conclusion
For a healthy lawn, you must ensure that your sprinkler system is working efficiently. But when your system is old or poorly designed, it may not function as intended. If you notice an increase in water bills, frequent leaking, or low water pressure, it may be time to replace your sprinkler system altogether.
If you want a healthy lawn, you’ll need the right irrigation system. That’s where we come in. Extreme Irrigation & Lawn is a locally owned and operated business that offers sprinkler system installation and repair throughout the Tulsa area. Request a quote today!