Common Issues with Irrigation Systems in Spring

 Close up of sprinkler head

Spring has sprung, which means it is time for new growth and, hopefully, plush green grass. Your irrigation system will help to make your lawn the envy of the neighborhood this season. 

 

Avoid common issues with these underground waterways with these simple tips:


Overspray


Overspray occurs when the sprinkler system is overwatering an area, and the water is hitting something it should not, such as your driveway or the road. Overspray wastes your valuable water, and often it ends up in the storm drain. Overspray can be caused by several issues below, so read on!

 

Broken or Clogged Sprinkler Heads


The broken sprinkler head is possibly the easiest problem to spot and repair. The solution is simple- replace that one sprinkler head. Clogged heads are often caused by debris covering the spray head of the sprinkler. To fix a clogged sprinkler head, turn the system off and lift the piece out of the ground. Screw off the clogged sprinkler head and wipe or spray off any debris in the filter with a cloth or water bottle. Once you put the piece back together, you should have a clean spray.

 

Faulty Water Controller


If your sprinkler seems to be working inconsistently, it is often because your water controller is not working. This essential piece of your system is responsible for the timing and allocation of the water throughout your system. Your local professional can help you remedy this problem.

 

Poor Water Pressure


One of the most typical sprinkler problems comes from poor water pressure. There are two possible causes. First, check the backflow device. To determine if the backflow device is malfunctioning, first make sure the water valves at the backflow device are turned fully on. The backflow device is generally located above ground, just above where the water pipe descends to the valves that split the water into separate sources. The other reason for low pressure is the dreaded cracked or leaking pipes. If this is the case, you will want to call a professional to dig down and repair those pipes.

 

Water is Coming Out of Several Zones at the Same Time


The valves in your system help control how water runs to each zone. Changes in internal vacuum pressure can impact the effectiveness of your valves. For example, suppose you notice water constantly leaking from one area or multiple areas. In that case, it could be caused by a defective valve diaphragm, blockage inside a valve, or an ineffective design stopping the valve from fully sealing.

 

Noisy Pump


If your pump is making a chattering noise, the pump start relay may be too far away from the controller, and the wire size between the controller and the relay’s coil is too small. To stop the chattering, change the wire size to 14 gauge for runs over 15 feet. If your pump starts buzzing when turned on, it is time to replace the relay.

 

Monitoring your irrigation system this spring may help you pinpoint common issues that may arise. Taking the time to remedy the more minor problems will help avoid more extensive, long-term issues. AquaTX Sprinkler has a knowledgeable team of experts with years of experience to help. If you have any of these issues with your irrigation system, reach out today.

 

AquaTX Sprinkler is a trusted leader in sprinkler and irrigation installation and repair. If you’re looking for a professional company with integrity that puts the customers first, you found the right one. Call us at 512-450-4217 or visit our website to save water and money today!

 

Sources:

http://www.aquatxsprinkler.com/

https://resourcecentral.org/sprinkler-maintenance/

https://www.krain.com/blog/7-sprinkler-system-problems-and-how-to-fix-them

https://www.thespruce.com/irrigation-troubleshooting-bad-valve-symptoms-2718892

 
Location: AquaTX Sprinkler

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