If your lawn is looking thirstier than usual, or maybe even a little marshy, the culprit could be your sprinkler system. With much of it operating underground, it can be hard to detect leaks and burst pipes in the system, but early intervention is the key to preventing serious water waste and costly damage to your lawn. If left unchecked, even a small leak can oversaturate your soil, drown grass roots, and drive up your water bill—without improving the condition of your yard.
That’s why it’s important to repair sprinkler system leaks as soon as they’re discovered—catching the problem early can save your lawn, your water bill, and a whole lot of hassle down the line. Let’s look at the easiest ways to diagnose and repair your sprinkler system leaks.
Signs of Leaks in Your Sprinkler System
Early detection and repair are crucial to protecting your lawn and preventing costly repairs. Here’s what to look for:
Low Water Pressure
A drop in water pressure from your sprinklers, or certain zones not spraying as they should, could indicate an issue with your system. Low pressure could mean a crack in the water line, requiring your attention.
Soggy Lawn
If certain areas of your lawn are consistently wet, muddy, or marshy—even when it’s dry outside—you could be facing an underground leak.
Dead or Dying Grass
While you may not think so, too much water can be just as harmful to your lawn as too little. Overwatered grass may develop yellow or brown patches due to root rot or fungal issues.
Water Bubbles
When your sprinkler system is active, watch for water bubbles, holes, or sunken ground. These signs may point to a leak that requires repair.
Dirty Water
The water from your sprinkler system should be clean and clear. If you notice dirty water spraying from your system, it could indicate soil and debris entering the lines, or a more serious problem, such as a broken pipe.
Watch for Animals
Animals digging or gnawing in your yard can cause leaks. If you see wildlife activity, check your sprinkler heads for damage.
4 Steps to Find & Repair Sprinkler System Leaks
Find the Leak
If you suspect you have a sprinkler system leak, start by locating it. With the system turned on, identify the zone that isn’t working correctly. Watch for sprinkler heads that aren’t spraying or have low water flow. You’re likely to locate the leak between one working sprinkler head and several non-working ones.
Dig In
Once you’ve located the leak, it’s time to start digging. Turn your water lines off before you grab your shovel, and for safety purposes, call your utility company to help you locate any utility lines before you start digging.
Make Repairs
Once you’ve dug down to the cause of the leak, assess the damage. Sometimes the fix is as easy as tightening a fitting or replacing a section of damaged pipe. In other cases, it could be a broken sprinkler head or cracked pipe. If you’re unsure of how to fix the damage, contact your Naiad Irrigation specialists, and we’ll handle it for you.
Test the System
Repairs complete, it’s time to test your handiwork. Turn the water back on slowly, and watch for improper water flow and any other signs of leaks.
Preventing Future Leaks
The best way to handle sprinkler system leaks? Stop them before they start. With a little regular care, you can extend the life of your system and avoid costly surprises. Here’s how:
- Regular Inspections: During watering season, take time once a week to watch your system in action. Make sure all sprinkler heads are working properly and covering the right areas—no dry spots or overspray.
- Watch for Damage from Mowers and Vehicles: Sprinkler heads are vulnerable to bumps and breaks. Be cautious when mowing and keep vehicles or heavy equipment off your lawn to avoid damaging underground lines.
- Check Your Control Panel: Make it a habit to review your system settings. Ensure your watering schedule makes sense for the season and that water pressure is consistent and not too high.
- Catch Issues Early: Subtle changes in spray patterns, low pressure, or damp patches can signal early trouble. Spotting these warning signs early can save you time, money, and your lawn.
Don’t Wait—Repair Sprinkler System Leaks Before They Worsen
Whether it’s a minor drip or a major underground break, sprinkler system leaks can cause serious headaches if left untreated. By learning how to spot the signs early and taking action quickly, you can protect your lawn, conserve water, and avoid costly repairs.
Regular inspections and preventative maintenance go a long way—but when in doubt, it’s always smart to call in the experts. At Naiad Irrigation, we’re here to help you diagnose and repair sprinkler system leaks quickly and effectively, so you can get back to enjoying a healthy, green lawn.
Ready to stop wasting water and start saving your lawn? Contact Naiad Irrigation today to book your inspection or repair service.
Book a service or call us today @ 587-200-3994. We provide top-notch services from Irrigation Association-certified professionals.
