How Do You Fix a Broken Sprinkler Head? - A Step by Step Guide to Repairing a Broken Sprinkler Head

When it comes to a broken sprinkler head, it can be an easy fix. However, if this is your first time replacing a broken sprinkler head, no worries! This handy step by step will help walk you through the process to quickly and easily replace a broken sprinkler head in no time! Read on to learn more.

Signs Your Sprinkler Needs Repair

The first thing to do is identify what the problem may be. Once you determine what it is, you can take the proper steps to fix it. Are there any visible drips or puddles pooling around the sprinkler head? This can suggest a leak or malfunction inside the head itself. Is there any physical damage to it? Cracks, breaks, or the head facing an awkward angle? Have you noticed if your sprinkler is spraying some areas too much or too little? Uneven spraying or sputtering can indicate internal damage or potential blockages that must be dealt with. Low water pressure can imply there is a leak as well. Paying attention to the physical signs can help you get to the root of the problem.

Steps to Repair a Broken Sprinkler

How to Fix a Sprinkler Head

If the source of the problem is the head, then you should replace the head of the sprinkler. First, you should turn off the water supply so you won’t cause a flood. Next, you should dig around the sprinkler with a small shovel. Dig about 5-6 inches around the sprinkler head. This will expose the pipe connecting to the sprinkler head. (AKA the riser). Then, you should grasp the base of the damaged sprinkler head and unscrew it from the riser. If it is stuck, you can carefully unscrew the head with pliers. Lastly, you can clean any dirt or debris from around the riser so you can put the new one in without worrying about clogs. Now you can install the new replacement head by screwing it onto the riser until it is tight.

How to Fix a Sprinkler Pipe

If the issue is coming from a section of pipe, then you should replace it to prevent further leakage. Turn the water supply off, then dig around the damaged pipe section. Next, use a pipe cutter to remove the cracked portion. Make sure to make clean cuts on both sides of the break and clean both ends in preparation to put the new one in. Lastly, you can use a PVC slip coupling to help connect the new section of pipe to the ends of the original sprinkler irrigation pipes. Make sure to slide loose hose clamps onto the pipe ends, insert the plastic coupling into both pipe sides, then tighten the hose clamps securely on each side of the coupling. Now, you can refill the trench and use the dirt to compact the parts together nicely.

Preventing Future Broken Sprinkler Issues

To avoid future broken sprinkler issues, it is advisable to ensure the heads are installed or adjusted at the right depth. Heads that are too high are more likely to get damaged by lawnmowers and foot traffic. If they’re too low, they won’t pop up. You can also install additional protection, like placing concrete rings around each sprinkler head, that will help deflect any damage that lawnmowers could cause. Clean your sprinkler heads on a seasonal basis; this will help avoid clogged ones.

Conclusion

In conclusion, with these helpful steps, you can effectively replace a sprinkler head with minimal effort and time. It is important to maintain the health of your garden with proper maintenance of sprinkler heads. However, if your sprinkler problem is beyond simply replacing the head or the head components, it is good to consult with a professional who can resolve the problem. Ensuring your irrigation system is up-to-date and functioning smoothly is also important. It is wise to perform an annual or bi-annual assessment of your irrigation system. That’s why Pro Green Landscape Solutions offers sprinkler repair and irrigation services that you can rely on to identify and fix any sprinkler-related issues with professionalism and care. You can call us at (512)-599-1315 or contact us to book an appointment today.