I have always been one of those people who loves to create a warm, inviting atmosphere for others, which is why I started looking at landscaping design in the first place. It was incredible to me to see how much of a difference I was able to make by adding a few new plants, and after that first project, I wanted to help other people. I started volunteering to help friends and neighbors do their landscaping, and after a few months, I had developed quite a following. This blog is all about creating a warm, inviting yard through smart landscaping and an eye for detail.
If you're like most homeowners, you depend on your sprinkler system to keep your lawn and landscaping lush, green, and healthy. You probably don't even notice your sprinkler system much until it fails to work as planned. Fortunately, many sprinkler issues have an easy fix. Following are three of the most common reasons why your sprinkler system may be malfunctioning and how you can fix the problems.
Damaged or Broken Sprinkler Heads
Erratic sprays of water, no water, and sprinkler heads that fail to pop up the way they should are all indications that faulty sprinkler heads may be the reason why your system isn't working. Replacing the sprinkler head usually remedies the problem. Sprinkler heads are easily available from home improvement retailers, but be sure to take the existing head with you when you shop to ensure that you purchase the right one. You'll need to access the head by digging a hole two feet in diameter around the area where the head is located and removing the head from the vertical pipe branching off the main irrigation line -- turn it counterclockwise and it should easily come off. Be sure to turn off the water before you begin to dig. If you're not comfortable with digging, a professional sprinkler repair service can perform this task in a matter of minutes.
Worn Out Valve Diaphragm
Worn out or otherwise faulty valve diaphragms are often the culprit when your sprinkler system leaks even when the water is turned off. To replace a valve diaphragm, you'll first have to turn off the water to your system, clean and drain the valve box, and remove and replace the existing valve diaphragm. Those who are handy with tools frequently complete this project with little problem. You'll need a Philips screwdriver, clean rags to sop up excess water, and a replacement valve diaphragm that you've purchased from a local retailer. This is another quick job that good repair service can whip out in minutes if you don't feel confident about doing it yourself.
Backflow Device Problems
Back flow valves work hard to keep your water supply safe by preventing water that has already gone through your system from reentering, and therefore, wear and tear takes it toll on even the sturdiest back flow devices. The main reason to keep your sprinkler's backflow device in good working order is to ensure that chemicals from fertilizers, weed killers, and other products you use in your yard and garden area don't inadvertently wind up back in your household's general water supply.
To repair a back flow valve on a sprinkler system, you will first need to turn off your main water supply. The next step is to locate the valve and turn it off. After that, you'll need to remove the bell cover by first using a small wrench to remove the nut that holds it in place. Remove all other interior pieces and install new components -- bonnets and poppets can be purchased individually from your local hardware store or home improvement retailer.
Be sure to closely inspect the backflow valve for cracks and other damage in order to determine if it should be replaced. Always carefully test the system by turning the water back on gradually. If you have made a mistake, the resulting spray of water may be strong enough to cause injury to yourself or those in close proximity. Please keep in mind that using a professional service for your sprinkler repair needs may actually save you money in the long run. Experts can often spot other potential issues while in the process of performing routine maintenance and replacement tasks.
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