
Lawn sprinkler system head repair
- Turn off the water to the sprinkler system
- Dig the head from the ground — unscrew the head from the riser. ...
- Find the plastic screen basket located at the base of the head. Remove the basket with your pliers or a screwdriver.
- Remove dirt and debris by swishing the head and screen basket in a bucket of clean water.
- Place the cleaned basket back inside the canister; place the clean head back on the riser.
- Test the sprinkler system. If the head still doesn’t work, consider replacing the head. (See below.)
How to adjust, repair lawn sprinkler heads?
- Adjust the Water Flow: This is the easiest way to adjust your coverage. ...
- Alter the Diffuser Pin Position: This is a large screw that is anchored on the sprinkler head base. ...
- Adjust the Deflector Shield: The flat metal square on the body of the sprayer head is called the deflector shield. ...
How to repair a leaking lawn sprinkler head?
Steps for How to Repair a Sprinkler System
- Shut off the water to the sprinkler system.
- Remove lid from valve box and clean out mud from inside of box with hand trowel.
- Pack valve box with dry rags to absorb water.
- Twist out the low-voltage solenoid valve, then wait for excess water to drain out.
- Unscrew the bonnet from the top of the valve using a Phillips screwdriver.
How do I repair a lawn sprinkler head?
Project step-by-step (11)
- Replace a Sprinkler Head. Dig around the sprinkler head to expose the riser. ...
- Clean and Reset Heads. Disassemble the sprinkler head by unscrewing the top from the canister. ...
- Check the Valves. ...
- Find and Repair Leaks. ...
- Repair Crushed Pipes. ...
- Check for Low Voltage. ...
- Test the Transformer. ...
- Replace Sprinkler Solenoid. ...
- Reconnect the Wires. ...
- Waterproof Connectors. ...
How much does it cost to repair a sprinkler head?
The total price depends on these factors:
- property size
- linear feet of existing setup
- depth and position of pipes
- how much you intend to change the design
- if you're going to put in a new one at the same time
How to lower water pressure on a sprinkler head?
How to adjust a stationary sprinkler head?
Why isn't my sprinkler head working?
How do I know if my sprinkler head needs repair?
How does a sprinkler system work?
How to decrease sprinkler head?
What are the different types of sprinkler heads?
See more

How do you fix an above ground sprinkler?
0:458:01Fixing a broken lawn sprinkler - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst thing you do is cut the lawn on either side and fold it back here you don't need to cut theMoreFirst thing you do is cut the lawn on either side and fold it back here you don't need to cut the whole thing out just cut a line on either side with the shovel.
How do you fix a sprinkler head that won't spray?
0:552:12Water Wise - Fix A Clogged Sprinkler Head - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOff we could use a bucket full of water or a garden hose. You're going to totally submerse. It inMoreOff we could use a bucket full of water or a garden hose. You're going to totally submerse. It in the water to get all that dirt. Off shake it up a little bit. If you have an old toothbrush.
How do you fix a popped sprinkler head?
0:032:34FIX THIS: How to fix a broken sprinkler head - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo 180 is what we selected. Before you pull the actual sprinkler head out carefully dig out smallMoreSo 180 is what we selected. Before you pull the actual sprinkler head out carefully dig out small chunks of grass.
How do you fix a sprinkler tube?
1:025:32How to Fix A Broken Lawn Sprinkler line - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut you could use regular hose clamps if you didn't have these on hand the one downfall of these isMoreBut you could use regular hose clamps if you didn't have these on hand the one downfall of these is that you need this special tool that helps you pinch those clamps together.
Why is there no water coming out of my sprinkler head?
Water that fails to come out of a sprinkler head is typically a sign of blockage. Similarly to a shower head in the bathroom, the head of a lawn sprinkler can become clogged with debris, causing a decrease in water pressure. Some of the usual culprits for a clogged sprinkler head include: Accumulation of dirt.
Why are some of my sprinklers not popping up?
Sprinkler Heads In Most Or All Zones Won't Pop Up. Check all of the valves to make sure they are fully open, especially the main system shut-off valve and the valves on your backflow preventer. A partially closed valve will reduce the water to the sprinklers, causing them to not fully pop up.
Do I need to turn off water to replace sprinkler head?
Turn Off Water System - Before beginning your installation it is so important to make sure that your water system is shut off properly. If you don't get your water shut off before the installation process you will have water spraying everywhere.
What are the parts of a sprinkler head?
Each sprinkler head consists of the deflector, fusible link or bulb, plug and the sprinkler head frame. If the temperature rises by more than 30°C relative to the ambient temperature, the sprinkler head fusible link or bulb trips thus allowing the water spray to eject the plug.
How do you fix a metal sprinkler pipe?
3:226:343/4" galvanized sprinkler pipe repair. - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo what I will do is glue in a 1 inch by 3/4 slip bushing here I'm measuring the PVC pipe that willMoreSo what I will do is glue in a 1 inch by 3/4 slip bushing here I'm measuring the PVC pipe that will go between the tee and the galvanized pipe.
How do you splice a broken sprinkler line?
3:314:58How to repair a sprinkler line with a Quick Fix coupling - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd with one end of the quickfix glue then the next step is to cut the pipe to where it just missesMoreAnd with one end of the quickfix glue then the next step is to cut the pipe to where it just misses the other end of the quick fix. Then I'll primer the other end of the quick fix and the end of the
How do you fix a leaky sprinkler pipe?
First, find the leak by looking for escaping water or sprinkler heads with little to no flow. Then, dig up and expose the damaged pipe so you can remove it. Use a slip coupling to replace the damaged section of pipe, fill in the dirt around it, and you're done!
How long do pop up sprinklers last?
While different parts of your system may need replacing throughout its life, you can expect the average sprinkler system to last for upwards of 20 years. During that time, you'll likely need to replace your sprinkler heads around the 10-year mark if using high-quality heads.
How do you unclog a pop up sprinkler head?
0:322:49How to clean a Clogged Nozzle - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo what we recommend is just having a little bit of water and basically kind of rinse it off makeMoreSo what we recommend is just having a little bit of water and basically kind of rinse it off make sure you get the debris out of the screen.
Why is my water sprinkler controller not working?
The water sprinkler controller stops working. One of the problems can be on the controller not switching to the manual mode. When it does happen, it means that there is no power to the controller. To fix it, check that the controller is wired properly based on the system’s Electrical Circuit and Connection diagram.
How to tell if a sprinkler valve is open?
You can tell that the valve is open once the handle is parallel with the pipe. (The backflow device is above ground and its valve 12 inches above the highest point of the yard’s sprinkler head. Many of these devices have a valve on both the vertical and horizontal pipes.)
Why does my sprinkler head not pop up?
And in some cases, the heads do not pop up. It is another common problem of a sprinkler system. Low water pressure. One of the things to do is to inspect the backflow device’s valves to see if they’re open. Make sure to turn on the horizontal pipe’s valve before switching on the vertical pipe valve.
Why does my zone valve leak?
Zone valve leaks. This problem can be caused by some issues. For one, it can be due to a damaged or torn diaphragm inside the valve. To fix the problem, you can just disassemble and then rebuild the valve with a new diaphragm. If the cracked body of the valve is causing the leaks, you can replace the zone valve.
What happens if the sprinkler zone stops working?
If the zone stopped working, there might be an issue in the voltage. Know that the water system is divided into zones; each has its valve controlling a sprinkler head.
How to fix a water nozzle?
To fix it, you can turn the system off and then take the nozzle out. Be sure to clean all the debris from the screen of the nozzle. Water not spraying out the nozzle. In order to remove the nozzle, pull its stem out its body using one hand while gripping the nozzle with another hand.
Why is my valve not closing?
A valve that is installed backward can be the problem, so inspect the valve to ensure that there is proper flow. On the other hand, the problem can also be due to a damaged or worn out zone valve, leading to the valve not closing totally. Clean and rebuild the valve, and see if it solved the problem.
How do I disassemble a sprinkler head?
Disassemble the sprinkler head by unscrewing the top from the canister. Rinse away soil and debris in a bucket of water. Remove the screen basket from the bottom of the head, then clean it with water. Adjust the watering range of the sprinkler head before installing it. Make final adjustments with the water running.
How to repair a damaged pipe?
Cut out the damaged section of line. Place a clamp on one of the line ends, insert a slip coupling, then tighten the clamp. Place a clamp on the second pipe end, expand the coupling while inserting the nipple into the pipe, then tighten the clamp. Step 5.
What happens if your watering system is not turning on?
Your watering system is divided into a series of zones. Generally, if you have a zone that's not turning on, you have an electrical problem. Make sure the zone wires are firmly attached to the terminals in the controller, the transformer is plugged in, and the circuit breaker at the main panel is on.
Skill
5 Easy The difficult part is making sure to put everything back together again in the proper sequence.
Estimated Time
In this video, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook explains how to repair a leaky sprinkler system.
Why do sprinklers need waterproof connectors?
To do so, add waterproof connectors to protect the sprinkler system wiring from the elements.
How many volts does a sprinkler system use?
Standard sprinkler systems operate on 24 volts, or “24 VAC” on a multimeter, although a range of 22 to 28 is acceptable. Multimeter tests are not difficult to perform, although electric repair work of any kind may be best left to an electrician, or in this specific case, to an irrigation specialist. Photo: istockphoto.com.
What happens if you damage a controller wire?
DO repair damaged wires. Damaged wires will prohibit the controller from “talking” to the valves and making them open or close on schedule. Sometimes, normal wear and tear will deteriorate wiring, or there might be other more immediate causes, such as tampering critters or the elements.
Why does my sprinkler system leak?
DO make sure to check valves. Sprinkler leaks are most often caused by faulty valves. These plastic parts help direct the water from its main source to the rest of the yard through what’s known as a valve assembly or manifold.
What happens if your sprinkler heads are clogged?
Clogged sprinkler heads impact the distribution of water across the lawn, potentially leading to patches that are drier and browner than others. Making sure sprinkler heads are clean and clear will keep the whole system running properly.
What is a good sprinkler system?
Quality sprinkler systems are easy, water-efficient means to keep your yard green and lush. Their programmable and scheduled irrigation, combined with strategic sprinkler head placement ensure evenly distributed watering across the lawn. Depending on the season and need, the system can be altered to provide optimal watering in the new conditions. But they require their own maintenance in order to, in turn, continue to care for the lawn.
What happens when a pipe leaks?
Pipes are subject to normal wear and tear as well as other unfortunate accidents, such as a burst of water pressure or a confrontation with a garden spade or shovel. As with a leak, you’ll want to pay attention to water flow throughout the lawn and watch for any inconsistencies in certain areas.
How to release a sprinkler valve?
Release the sprinkler valve solenoid—a thin cylinder with a wire protruding from each end—from the sprinkler head by unscrewing it in a clockwise direction. A plunger is located near the solenoid. Check that the plunger can release and retract freely.
How to release tension from a diaphragm?
Squeeze the spring gently between your fingers and release it: it should release the tension instantly. Rinse off the diaphragm with fresh water to remove any particles or debris. If either the diaphragm or spring is damaged, replace them with new parts.
Can you run over a sprinkler head with a mower?
Sprinkler valves can suffer damage when you run over the sprinkler heads with your mower or lash them with the weed slicer. Here are tips on repairing sprinkler valves to prevent future problems.
How to lower water pressure on a sprinkler head?
Turning it clockwise can also help lower the water pressure on a spray head that is shooting too much water out. On a rotor sprinkler, you may need to adjust both the radius and the spray arc. A rotor sprinkler nozzle is held in place with a setscrew.
How to adjust a stationary sprinkler head?
To adjust a stationary sprinkler head, find the spray radius adjustment screw on top of the nozzle. You may need to adjust it slightly to point the water spray in the direction of your lawn that you want it. Turning it clockwise can also help lower the water pressure on a spray head that is shooting too much water out.
Why isn't my sprinkler head working?
And other times, you may need to call in the pros. The most common reason that a sprinkler head isn’t working is that it has been damaged. Tell-tale signs that it’s broken are damaged plastic casing around the sprinkler head or the entire spray nozzle is broken off.
How do I know if my sprinkler head needs repair?
Other signs that your sprinkler head needs repair include a wild stream of water, no water flow at all from the sprinkler head, or a pop-up sprinkler head that doesn’t pop up. If they have been damaged, then you will need to replace them.
How does a sprinkler system work?
Most systems consist of the following: A water supply pipe that’s connected to your main water source. A ground-level valve box that’s divided into different underground irrigation zones.
How to decrease sprinkler head?
If you want to decrease it, turn the small screw clockwise. Pulsating sprinkler heads don’t require any special tools for adjusting, but before you begin, be sure to check the sprinkler heads for any damage and map out the areas that you want them to hit.
What are the different types of sprinkler heads?
There are multiple types of sprinkler heads and each one has slightly different directions. The most common types are stationary, rotor, pop-up, and pulsating sprin kler heads. While some of the steps are similar, each one may vary.
