Signs A Sprinkler System Needs Repairs

As we head into Summer, our sprinkler systems work overtime to keep plants hydrated and the lawn plush. Though it’s normal to see an increase in water and utility bills during the hot summer months, exorbitantly high water usage could be a sign of a sprinkler system needing repair. A broken or leaking sprinkler can flood the lawn and damage landscaping. Fortunately, most irrigation systems let homeowners know ahead of time that something is wrong. Here are the most common signs a sprinkler system needs attention or repair. 

Expensive water bill

As we mentioned before, if the water bill looks a lot higher this month than around the same time last year, you might have a sprinkler malfunction. Expect hundred-degree temperatures to impact landscape watering. However, if you see a bill double the previous year’s amount, there is probably a leak or broken control valve. 

Spurting sprinkler heads

If you notice that the sprinkler head looks like it is spurting water rather than sending out a steady stream, it is time to inspect. Often, a sputtering sprinkler head is indicative of debris clogging the system. However, it can also be caused by a broken valve or a cracked sprinkler head. In any situation, sputtering sprinklers are not doing their job correctly and need repair. 

Watering is uneven

Pooling in grass or lawn areas, unnecessarily wet sidewalks or driveway, and dry or brown patches are signs that the sprinkler system is watering unevenly. Leaky valves or obstructed sprinkler heads could be the cause, or something is awry with the irrigation system itself and needs attention. 

Incorrect water pressure

A landscape with low water pressure won’t get the hydration that it needs, while pressure that is too high leads to pooling and flooding, meaning high water bills and possibly dead plants. Arizona landscaping comes down to a science of just the right amount of water to keep things alive during those hot summer days. Water pressure that is too low might be a kink or crack in underground tubing. When an irrigation system gets old, valves and components stop working correctly and lead to too little or too much water pressure, leaving your yard demanding an alternative.

Irrigation woes usually stem from an issue with the system itself or worn or blocked components. In some cases, electrical hiccups will lead to zone-specific problems and will need recalibrating. Ignoring a spotty lawn comes with a price tag, and while there are things you can do at home to keep the irrigation system up to date and functioning well, there could be a more severe issue that requires the attention of a professional. Getting sprinklers checked out regularly by an irrigation specialist will help the system run smoother, and water bills stay in check. 

Springs of Life Irrigation is a Phoenix-area irrigation company specializing in professional sprinkler and drip irrigation and landscape lighting installation and repair. Call 623-299-2996.