Common Irrigation/Sprinkler System Repairs

Matt Sorenson

Common Irrigation Sprinkler System Repairs

Having an irrigation/sprinkler system to water your landscape can be incredibly convenient. It can save you time that you would otherwise have to spend walking about with a hosepipe in hand, and it can also ensure that your landscape is watered evenly on a regular basis.

However, these systems tend to be rather sensitive, with many parts requiring regular maintenance and repair. 

Let us take a look at some of the most common irrigation/sprinkler system repairs that are required.

System Restorations

Overall system restorations are often required when a system has been in disuse for an extended period or has not received sufficient maintenance or repairs in a while. Such a system restoration may require the replacement of various components to ensure that the system functions as it should.

Alterations to Existing Systems

In many cases, landscapes change as new beds are dug and planted or lawns are extended or retracted. As homeowners make changes to their gardens’ layout, so does the existing irrigation system need to be altered to ensure that the right areas are watered.

Sometimes the alterations might involve upgrades or changes to how the system works to provide a different kind of water pressure, more automation or a different sprinkler head design. This might be because technology has improved since the original system was installed, or perhaps a new owner wants to do some upgrades.

Field Wiring Problems

When the wiring in your sprinkler/irrigation system is damaged, faulty or poorly done, various problems could ensue. Not only will the automated functions of the system not work as designed, but there could potentially be danger of electrocution if wires are exposed. 

Field wiring problems could result in valves not functioning as they should, resulting in pressure problems and potential backflow issues.

Valve Replacements and Backflow Replacement

Your sprinkler/irrigation system’s valves are integral to the system functioning as it should. The valves regulate how much water is distributed to different parts of the garden. Modern irrigation system valves often have automation functionality, allowing you to set timers.

These components will endure much wear and tear. While good quality valves can last as much as 10 to 15 years if well looked after, they can fail due to a lack of maintenance. Moreover, faulty wiring can cause valves to fail due to short circuits.

Backflow valves also need replacement periodically, particularly if an ageing valve fails to pass a safety inspection. Backflow is a critical issue that cannot be allowed to happen. Thus the replacement of backflow valves is often necessary to ensure that the integrity of the water supply is not compromised.

Spray Heads

Sprinkler spray heads commonly need replacing or repairing because they are typically the most exposed part of the system and are therefore the most likely to get damaged from lawnmowers or being stepped on, for example. They also often get clogged up and stop functioning as intended.

Rotors

Like spray heads, rotor sprinklers also often need repairing since they are the most exposed part of the system. Moreover, they contain various moving parts to ensure that they rotate effectively. This constant rotation is prone to wear and tear, so regular repairs are often required to ensure that they spray water properly.

Controllers

Sprinkler/irrigation systems need controllers to control the system. These devices allow users to determine the timing of the irrigation and, depending on the type of controller, various other parameters as well.

Sometimes these controllers suffer from faults, short circuits or other electrical problems, causing the entire irrigation system to fail or to function irrationally. Therefore, it is sometimes necessary either to replace an old, dysfunctional controller with a new one or to have the wiring looked at and repairs effected.

Rain and Freeze Sensors

Rain and freeze sensors can wear out after a few years and need replacing. If these sensors start to fail, then the sprinklers will either fail to turn on as scheduled or might continue to consume water for irrigation even when raining, thereby wasting water.

It is important to ensure that these sensors are working and that they be replaced if not.

Leaks

Leaks are extremely common problems. These can occur due to bad seals on joins and connections or perished or cracked piping, among other things. Naturally, leaks are a problem for a sprinkler/irrigation system because they lead to a loss of water and pressure and can result in excessive water bills and an unevenly watered landscape.

Any leaks should be detected and repaired as soon as possible.

At South Austin Irrigation, we can do all kinds of sprinkler/irrigation system repairs to ensure that your system is running optimally. Contact us online today to find out more or call us at (512) 534-7449.