7 Most Common Sprinkler System Issues Every North Texas Homeowner Must Know
These 7 most common sprinkler system issues can derail your dream of a lush lawn, especially in DFW and North Texas, where the summer heat can be relentless. These issues lead to wasted water, higher bills, and patchy grass. Let’s dive into the most common sprinkler system problems and how to tackle them like a pro.
1. Clogged or Broken Sprinkler Heads
Sprinkler heads are prone to clogging and damage, especially after mowing or storms. Dirt, grass, and debris can block water flow, while cracked heads can spray water where it’s not needed.
Signs:
- Uneven or no water spray
- Water pooling around the sprinkler head
- Heads fail to pop up or retract
Fix It:
- Clean the nozzle: Remove the head, rinse thoroughly, and clear any debris.
- Replace damaged heads: Swap out broken heads to ensure proper water distribution.
Tip: Check your sprinkler heads monthly, especially after mowing, to catch and fix clogs early.
2. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can leave your lawn dry and stressed, as sprinklers struggle to deliver enough water.
Signs:
- Weak water streams
- Heads not fully extending
- Dry spots in your lawn despite watering
Fix It:
- Inspect for underground leaks or clogs in the system.
- Avoid running multiple zones simultaneously to maintain pressure.
- Call a professional if tree roots or other blockages are suspected.
Tip: Regularly monitor your water pressure to identify leaks or blockages early, saving time and water.
3. Broken or Malfunctioning Valves
Valves regulate water flow in your sprinkler system. If they malfunction, you may see uneven watering or leaks when the system is off.
Signs:
- Leaks from sprinkler heads when the system is off
- Zones not activating
- Uneven watering across your lawn
Fix It:
- Clean or replace the valve diaphragm to restore functionality.
- Inspect and repair damaged wiring or solenoids as needed.
Tip: Schedule seasonal valve inspections to catch wear and tear before it causes bigger problems.
4. Leaking Pipes
Underground leaks are a common issue in North Texas due to shifting clay soil, wasting water and reducing efficiency.
Signs:
- Pooling water or soggy spots in your yard
- Sudden spikes in your water bill
- Low pressure across your system
Fix It:
- Locate and repair the damaged section of the pipe.
- Replace cracked or misaligned pipes to restore efficiency.
Tip: Check for soggy areas or unusual water pooling after your sprinklers go off—they could signal a pipe leak.
5. Damaged Timer/Controller
A malfunctioning controller can disrupt your watering schedule, leaving your lawn overwatered or parched.
Signs:
- The system doesn’t run on schedule
- Some zones don’t water properly
- Error messages or no power to the controller
Fix It:
- Reprogram or reset the controller.
- Replace damaged wiring or components as needed.
Tip: After storms, check your controller for errors—power surges can reset programming or cause damage.
6. Misaligned Sprinkler Heads
Misaligned sprinkler heads can waste water by spraying onto driveways, sidewalks, or non-grass areas, leaving parts of your lawn dry.
Signs:
- Water hitting hardscapes instead of grass
- Dry patches in your lawn
- Crooked or tilted heads
Fix It:
- Adjust the heads to ensure water sprays evenly across your lawn.
- Replace any heads damaged beyond adjustment.
Tip: After repositioning, run your system to confirm even coverage and avoid missed spots.
7. Incorrect Watering Schedule
Watering at the wrong time or too frequently wastes water and can harm your lawn, especially in the hot Texas climate.
Signs:
- Lawn appears dry despite frequent watering
- Soggy or fungus-prone grass
- Watering during midday heat
Fix It:
- Adjust the schedule to water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
- Water deeply but less frequently, especially during the summer.
Tip: Consider installing a smart controller that adjusts watering schedules based on weather conditions.
Keep Your Lawn Thriving Year-Round
Tackling these 7 most common sprinkler system issues can save you time, water, and frustration. Regular maintenance like cleaning heads, checking valves, and monitoring pressure ensures your sprinkler system operates efficiently and keeps your lawn healthy.
If you need expert help in DFW and North Texas, Whale Done Sprinklers & Irrigation is here to assist. Contact us today to keep your lawn lush, vibrant, and ready to handle the Texas heat!
