Noticing dry patches or struggling plants in your yard? If your landscaping isn’t looking as lush and vibrant as it should, your irrigation system might be to blame.
Over time, irrigation lines and sprinkler systems can develop problems that keep water from reaching your lawn and plants effectively. Let’s take a closer look at some common irrigation issues, what causes them, and a few troubleshooting tips to help you get your landscaping back to looking its best.
Your System Won’t Turn On
When an irrigation system refuses to activate, the issue may lie within the electrical components or power supply. A faulty transformer, low voltage, or a tripped breaker can disrupt electricity flow to the control box.
Additionally, a malfunctioning switch, dead battery, or defective relay may also prevent the system from receiving the necessary signal to start. You can troubleshoot this issue by checking the timer and examining all wire connections for signs of wear or corrosion.
Use a multimeter to measure voltage and verify that the zone valve solenoids are functioning properly. If the solenoid doesn’t click when power is applied, a replacement may be needed.
Clogged Sprinkler Heads
Clogged sprinkler heads usually happen because of accumulated debris, such as soil, sand, or grass clippings, that block the nozzle or spray mechanism. A nearby lawn mower may inadvertently kick up material that settles into open heads. This buildup restricts water flow and affects the irrigation pattern, leaving dry patches on your lawn.
To address this, remove the affected sprinkler head and rinse it under a garden hose to dislodge debris. Check the filter and nozzle for blockages, and reassemble carefully.
Replacing damaged nozzles with brand-new ones can restore spray efficiency and help preserve water. Regular maintenance helps protect the lawn and supports healthy plant growth by preventing dry soil and root damage.
Water Leakages
Leaks in an irrigation system can occur at joints, fittings, or underground pipe sections. They’re often caused by cracked materials, tree root intrusion, or seasonal temperature fluctuations that expand and contract materials. A persistent leak can undermine water supply efficiency and contribute to high utility bills.
Conduct an inspection along the irrigation line, looking for soggy spots in the landscape or unusually green patches of grass. A damaged pipe might also compromise backflow protection, making the system vulnerable to contamination.
Use a garden hose to manually isolate sections of the system and identify the faulty component. Replace or seal compromised fittings, and don’t overlook the role of a check valve or backflow preventer in maintaining clean water flow.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure diminishes system performance, resulting in insufficient spray and uneven lawn coverage. This issue can stem from a partially closed valve, clogged filters, a malfunctioning pressure regulator, or an undersized pump.
Over time, mineral deposits and internal corrosion within the plumbing can further restrict flow. A worn-out suction mechanism may also hinder pump efficiency. Start by inspecting the main valve and pressure regulator, and flush the system to remove obstructions.
Adjusting irrigation settings during high-demand periods—like early morning during the peak growing season—can help balance pressure. Pay attention to the layout and avoid running multiple zones with high-demand sprinklers simultaneously, as this can strain your water supply system.
Zoning Issues
Problems with specific irrigation zones can trace back to faulty zone valves, damaged solenoids, or disrupted low-voltage signals from the controller. Each zone serves a unique area of the landscape, and failure in one zone can cause localized stress during droughts.
Wiring issues—often due to moisture ingress into valve boxes or interference from tree roots—can interrupt communication between the controller and the valve. A multimeter test at the terminal and valve can potentially reveal voltage inconsistencies.
Replacing corroded wires or damaged solenoids typically resolves the issue. Implementing a rain sensor can optimize irrigation during wet weather, which reduces water waste and improves lawn care by adjusting output to the actual moisture needs of the soil and plants.
Schedule Repairs and Maintenance for Your Sprinklers With Brookhaven Irrigation
While some of the aforementioned problems can be solved on your own, others are more complex and time-consuming. If you’re having problems with your irrigation lines or sprinklers, turn to the professionals at Brookhaven Irrigation.
We offer irrigation inspections and repairs in Long Island and will make sure that your system is running properly again in no time. Reach out today to speak with our team and schedule an appointment.
