How to Troubleshoot Inground Lawn Sprinklers
Being in possession of an in ground sprinkler system grants one access to one of the greatest, all time conveniences a homeowner can enjoy. However, these systems can act up and malfunction. With the bulk of the system being in ground, it is important to learn how to troubleshoot the system properly.
- Using a pipe wrench, unscrew and remove the top of the valve to check for sand, dirt or debris that could prevent the valve from closing completely. The trouble sign to watch for is typically water continuing to flow from the sprinkler head long after system has been shut off. Other likely culprits are holes in the valve diaphragm, dirt or debris on the valve seat itself. Check for normal valve operation by reassembling the valve components and allowing the water to flow to the valve.
- Replace the valve. Should reassembling the valve components fail, replacement of the valve is the next logical step.
- Make certain all your sprinkler heads are functioning normally within each particular watering zone. Should one fail to rise or gets stuck at a half risen position, it usually means there is an issue with the water reaching that particular head. Unscrew the head from its rise to see if low water pressure is an issue. If low pressure remains an issue a plugged riser, a leaky fitting or a broken pipe, could cause it.
- With the water turned off, replace the sprinkler head with a PVC cap purchased at your local hardware store. Turn the water on again and observe the ground surrounding where you placed the cap. If you spot water springing or bubbling out of the ground, you’ve discovered a damaged or broken pipe.
- Dig down to where the pipe is located, near the source of bubbling or springing water. You should locate your leaky pipe or damaged fitting.
- Replace the leaky fitting or place a compression fitting on the broken pipe to repair the damage.