Irrigation systems are essential for keeping your lawn and garden healthy and thriving. However, they can sometimes experience issues that can be frustrating to deal with. From leaky sprinkler heads to malfunctioning valves, these problems can cause your plants to wilt or your lawn to become waterlogged. Fortunately, with a little troubleshooting know-how, you can easily fix most of these issues.
In this article, we’ll discuss six troubleshooting tips for common irrigation system issues. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, these tips will help you keep your irrigation system running smoothly and your plants healthy.
Tip #1: Check the Water Pressure
One of the most common issues with irrigation systems is low water pressure. Don’t assume that you need irrigation system repair just yet. It’s better to check and observe your water pressure first. If you notice that your sprinkler heads aren’t spraying water as far as they used to, or if they’re not popping up out of the ground, you may have a water pressure problem.
To check your water pressure, attach a pressure gauge to your outdoor faucet and turn on the water. If the pressure is below 40 psi, you may have a problem with your water supply or your irrigation system’s pressure regulator.
Tip #2: Inspect the Sprinkler Heads
Another common issue with irrigation systems is malfunctioning sprinkler heads. If your sprinkler heads are leaking, clogged, or not spraying water evenly, you may need to replace them.
To inspect your sprinkler heads, turn on the water and walk around your yard. Look for any heads that are leaking or not spraying water properly. If you find any, turn off the water and replace the faulty head with a new one.
Tip #3: Check the Valves
If your entire irrigation system isn’t working, the problem may be with the valves. Valves control the flow of water to each zone of your system, and if they’re not working properly, your system won’t function as it should.
To check your valves, turn off the water supply to your irrigation system and remove the valve cover. Check for any debris or dirt that may be blocking the valve, and clean it if necessary. If the valve is damaged, you’ll need to replace it.
Tip #4: Inspect the Pipes
Leaks in your irrigation system’s pipes can cause water to seep into the ground, wasting water and potentially damaging your lawn. If you suspect that you have a leak in your pipes, you’ll need to inspect them to find the source of the problem.
To inspect your pipes, turn off the water supply to your irrigation system and walk around your yard. Look for any wet spots or areas where the ground is soft or squishy. These may be signs of a leaky pipe. Once you’ve located the leak, you can repair it or replace the damaged section of the pipe.
Tip #5: Check the Timer
If your irrigation system isn’t turning on or off at the right times, the problem may be with the timer. Your timer controls when your system turns on and off, and if it’s not working properly, your plants may not be getting the water they need.
To check your timer, make sure that it’s set to the correct time and that the programming is correct. If you’re still having issues, try resetting the timer or replacing it with a new one.
Tip #6: Hire a Professional
If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting your irrigation system on your own or if you’re dealing with a more complex issue, it’s best to hire a professional. An experienced landscaper or irrigation specialist can diagnose and repair any issues with your system, ensuring that your plants get the water they need to thrive.
Conclusion
Irrigation systems are a valuable tool for keeping your lawn and garden healthy. However, they can experience issues from time to time. By following these six troubleshooting tips, you can quickly diagnose and repair the most common irrigation system issues. With a little know-how and some elbow grease, you can keep your irrigation system running smoothly and your plants thriving all season long.
At Extreme Irrigation & Lawn, we make sure your irrigation system is running efficiently and effectively. We provide top-notch installation, repair, and maintenance services to ensure your system is always in peak condition. Our team of certified professionals has the expertise and experience to handle all of your irrigation needs. Whenever you need irrigation system installation or repair services, contact us and let us help you bring your irrigation system back to life.