Your sprinkler system is vital for an always-greem and sturdy lawn but can run into trouble over time. Watch for these: that it waters evenly, that your water bills haven't increased, that the nozzle isn't under low pressure, or that it's not leaking, gurgling, or making other strange sounds. And if your sprinkler doesn't always know when it's time to get to work, see if it's watering the right zones.
Critical signals suggesting your irrigation system requires mending
Potential results of overlooking these signals
Basic troubleshooting measures
Appropriate times to call in an expert
If your lawn seems partway toward becoming a pond in some places, you should take notice. Excessive amounts of water could be caused by a broken head on your sprinkler system or an underground pipe that has burst. Not taking care of the situation could very well result in root rot (if there are roots down there anywhere) and wasted water. The next time you look out over your "lawn" and see excess water, think of it as if you were looking at the interior of your home over some sod. You wouldn't let a room inside your house get that wet without taking action to dry it out.
None of us like receiving bills in the mail, and we like them even less when they come as a surprise and seem to have snowballed in size. If your bill is somehow higher this month and you can't figure out why, it might be the damn sprinkler system—Bert speaks from experience here—that is using more water than it should. Watch your usage. Consistent overuse strongly suggests a leak or inadequate system components, and the sooner you find out what's wrong, the better off you'll be.
Those odd hissing, gurgling, or popping noises aren't your lawn's latest music trend; they're a warning sign. These sounds from your plumbing may mean that air is getting into the system or that some broken part just can't function any more. Pay attention to them, and don't let them go too long without checking things out, or the plumbing could take a turn for the worse—into more extensive repairs.
A sprinkler that will not work correctly, either by functioning on a set schedule or by working only in certain areas, is not likely to provide the even coverage that one wishes for in an irrigation system. If your problem is with a timer that just won't time right, it could be either your programming or a basic electrical fault.
Make sure the sprinkler heads are clean and free of dust and debris
Inspect the system for obvious leaks
Check the controller settings
Make sure they are correct and to your liking. If only it were that simple!
Keep in mind that tackling sprinkler problems promptly can stave off larger trouble down the road. An efficiently running irrigation system not only keeps your turf healthy, but also conserves water. If you observe any of the following signs, don't procrastinate—contact turfrain.com today. Our team stands ready, willing, and able to revive your beleaguered sprinkler system with top-notch, prompt service.
