4 Common Problems Found in Residential Irrigation Systems

Even high-quality sprinkler systems can develop problems. And when that happens, it costs you time and money.

Keeping track of where and when and how much we have already watered is a luxury many of us can not afford. Because of this, many homeowners prefer to install an irrigation system. When installed correctly, irrigation systems are great at maintaining your landscape. A properly working irrigation system takes the guesswork out of watering your grass. But, even high-quality sprinkler systems can develop problems. And when that happens, it costs you time and money. Here are some of the most common irrigation system issues.

Misaligned Equipment

The ground under your lawn is constantly moving, especially when water, foot traffic, and natural compaction are involved. Over time, these factors can cause your sprinkler heads to shift and tilt. Any misalignment will affect the sprinkler’s functioning and cause water to be sprayed unevenly, leading to runoff and brown spots on your lawn. Sprinkler heads are easy for people to trip over, and they are prone to damage during routine lawn and landscaping maintenance.

Blocked Sprinkler Heads

If you notice uneven spray patterns, your first move should always be to check for blockage. It is pretty common for mud, dirt, or other lawn debris to get caught in the nozzle, and carefully cleaning the sprinkler head might solve the problem. This could also occur due to overgrown vegetation in the area. If you made some changes to the landscape and not the sprinkler system, or if the heads were installed in the wrong location. 

Pools of Water

Sometimes, water can pool on your lawn. Pooling is dangerous as it drowns grass and can uproot seeds and healthy topsoil and replace it with debris. If your irrigation sprinkler is the cause of the problem, it most likely has to do with a water valve. Your irrigation system opens and closes valves during operation to allow water to flow through. But if a malfunctioning valve gets stuck in the open position, the water will continue coming through. With no place to go, it pools on your lawn. Preventing this problem is easier than mitigation, so installing an automated emergency shutoff device is recommended. These devices work by shutting off the water supply to the malfunctioning valve, protecting your lawn from overwatering.

Improper Spacing

It’s essential that your sprinklers are spaced properly to ensure the entire yard is covered, and there isn’t any overlapping from misplaced sprinkler heads. If your sprinkler heads are properly spaced, your lawn and landscaping will get even more water.

Choose Sposato Irrigation

Sposato Irrigation is uniquely positioned to offer high-quality, affordable, and reliable irrigation services to homeowners and business owners in Sussex County, Milton, Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, Fenwick Island, Ocean View, Millsboro, Dagsboro, and Ocean City, MD. Thanks to our expertise, innovation and decades of professional experience, we can meet the needs of large properties and small gardens. To learn more about our irrigation installation, LED landscape lighting, and commercial irrigation maintenance services, contact us today. We can be reached at 302-645-4773. Also, check us out on Facebook and Twitter.