A green lawn is dependent on an irrigation system that is working well. Nonetheless, the most stable lawn watering systems may leak with time. Such leaks not only consume water but also cause water to be used unequally, increase utility bills and even damage your landscape. Leaks can be identified and troubleshooted to save you time, money and water.
Spotting Signs of a Leak
The initial stage in troubleshooting is the ability to identify the presence of something wrong. Typical indicators of leaks in lawn sprinkler systems are unusually high water bills, areas of softening soil, areas of poor grass growth, or visible water pools around the sprinkler heads. In the event that some parts of your lawn are dry even when you water regularly, it may also indicate an underground leak.
Checking Sprinkler Heads
Damaged or clogged sprinkler heads are considered to be one of the most frequent culprits of leaks. Check every head during the process of system running. In case water sprays are not even, drips at the bottom, or will not rise well, the head might require cleaning or replacement. In other cases, the nozzle can be blocked by dirt or grass clippings, which can be solved by cleaning the nozzle very fast. Installing broken or damaged heads will guarantee that your lawn watering systems are efficient.
Watching Pipes and Connections
Leaks are common in the pipes that are connecting your sprinkler system in the ground. Wade up and down the irrigation lines and see where there is sponginess or bubbling water. These spots could be a sign of a broken pipe or a loose joint. Underground leakages can be repaired by digging to reach the damaged part. Appropriate connectors and pipe sealants can be used to fix the system and avoid future leakages.
Evaluating Valves and Seals
Water flow in your irrigation system is regulated by valves, in which old seals or gaskets may cause constant dripping. Open valve boxes and look to see whether there is water in it, rust or broken seals. Replacement of faulty parts will guarantee that your lawn watering systems have a stable pressure and prevent wastage of water.
Monitoring Water Pressure
The high-water pressure may place a strain on your irrigation system, and leak. When you see that the misting or spraying of water is not in the form of solid jets, then your system pressure is probably excessively high. Leakage can be prevented by installing a pressure regulator that will allow pipes, sprinkler heads, and valves to wear unwarrantedly.
When to Call a Professional
Some minor leaks might be resolved using basic equipment and a spare part, but some more complicated problems might necessitate the assistance of a professional. Certified irrigation experts possess the equipment and knowledge to find underground breaks, fix underground pipes and even upscale your system to its highest efficiency. Keeping your lawn watering systems in service is a good idea to make sure they are reliable every season.
Final Thoughts
The fact that watering systems leak water in the lawns may not be a major problem though, when not addressed, the case would lead to wastage and damages. The homeowners can prevent both the high cost of repair and wastage of the water by noticing the warning signs, inspecting the sprinkler heads, inspecting the pipes and maintaining the valves. With the right troubleshooting (or professional support), you should be able to keep your irrigation system in good condition and have a lawn that is the envy of the block.