Do I Need A Sprinkler System Repair Or Replacement
A healthy lawn simply can’t exist without a fully functional sprinkler system in place. Just like any other system, a sprinkler system also needs to be maintained regularly to avoid costly repairs down the line. Sometimes, a minor repair will do the trick and your sprinkler system will start working like a charm, but there are times when a complete overhaul of the system is needed.
Signs That You May Need Sprinkler System Repair
When maintained properly, a sprinkler system usually lasts for at least 10 to 15 years. But some top-of-the-line sprinkler systems can last for 20 years, which is impressive by any yardstick. So that means, if your sprinkler system is just a year or two old, it likely just needs a quick fix and nothing else. However, if your sprinkler system is over 15 years old, it might need a replacement.
In the case of faulty parts, you need to ask the sprinkler installation company first because you never know if the parts are still under warranty. If they are under warranty, you will get a free replacement.
01. Uneven Watering
Uneven distribution of water is the telltale sign of a dysfunctional lawn watering system. A malfunctioning lawn sprinkler system will distribute more water to certain parts of the lawn than others. Dry areas juxtaposed with soggy spots mean that the sprinkler system is not working as it should. It can also lead to an increase in the water bills. This could stem from minor issues like a blocked sprinkler head, and this can be fixed easily by clearing out the debris from the sprinkler head. However, if it is a defective sprinkler valve or a broken pipe, you might need to ask for the assistance of a sprinkler repair specialist.
02. Change in Water Pressure
If the water pressure fluctuates every now and then, it clearly indicates that the sprinkler system is not performing at its peak efficiency. If the water pressure is too high, the sprinkler system might start leaking at the source or, in some worst cases, the sprinkler system might burst. On the other hand, if the water pressure is too low, the sprinkler system might not be able to distribute water evenly throughout the lawn.
Check the regulator and try to spot any irregularities. Don’t forget to check the sprinkler valve, because sometimes a minor blockage could be interfering with its operation. Cleaning the valve in such cases will resolve the problem most of the time, but if it does not fix the problem, you might need to make some adjustments in the settings and see whether it makes any difference in its performance. If both the sprinkler valve and the controller are working fine, it means, most likely, it is the irrigation pipe that could be the main culprit. In such cases, it might be a good idea to ask for professional assistance rather than trying to fix it yourself and making the matter worse.
03. Sputtering Sprinkler Heads
A sputtering sprinkler head is a clear indication of a problem. Check for any clogs in the system, as clogging is a common issue for most sprinkler heads. Over time, the sprinkler head accumulates dirt and debris, and if not cleaned properly, this debris can seriously undermine the functionality of the sprinkler head. Try to remove the head from the system and clean it with water. However, if the problem persists, it means you need to replace the sprinkler head.
04. Drips or Leaks
A dripping sprinkler head is never a pleasant sign to behold. Either there is a leak in the pipe or the pressure in the system is way too high. Either way, it means that your sprinkler system is using way more water than what your lawn needs. An irrigation system that is not maintained properly can waste up to a mind-boggling 25,000 gallons of water annually. Check the surrounding areas of the sprinkler head and try to locate the source of the leak if possible. Sometimes, you just need to replace a simple washer or tighten the screws and the problem will be fixed.
05. Soil Erosion
Soil erosion is another major sign of a sprinkler system not working properly. When the system works without any interruptions, it will prevent the formation of pooling water in certain areas of the lawn. Water pooling in most cases can snowball into another major problem and that is – topsoil loss. You need to get your irrigation system checked thoroughly if you come across any sign of soil erosion.
Signs You Need a Sprinkler System Replacement
Sometimes, repairing a sprinkler system isn’t enough; you’ll need to replace it with a brand-new one. Most sprinkler systems tend to last 15 to 20 years. If your system is nearing this age, it may be time to invest in a replacement.
Maintaining an old sprinkler system can sometimes outweigh its benefits. Calculate the cumulative cost of keeping it functional and then make an informed decision. There’s no point in spending money on costly repairs if the system is struggling to maintain efficiency and reliability.
A complete system overhaul may be necessary if your landscape has changed significantly in recent years. The existing system might not meet the requirements of the new landscape, warranting a complete revamp.
