Living in Houston, where hot summers and occasional droughts stress our lawns, a well-functioning sprinkler system is essential for maintaining a lush, green yard. At Superlative Service, we’ve seen countless irrigation issues over our 30+ years of experience, and catching problems early can save you time and money. Here are five telltale signs your sprinkler system needs repair, along with tips to keep your lawn thriving.
1. Uneven Watering or Dry Patches
If you notice brown or dry spots on your lawn despite regular watering, your sprinkler system may not be distributing water evenly. This could stem from clogged nozzles, misaligned sprinkler heads, or low water pressure. For example, a spray head might be blocked by debris, or a rotor head could be stuck, failing to cover its full range.
Quick Fix: Inspect your sprinkler heads for blockages and clean them with water. If the issue persists, contact a professional to check for underlying issues like pipe leaks or pressure problems.
2. Pooling Water or Soggy Areas
Excess water pooling around sprinkler heads or in low-lying areas of your yard often indicates a leak or broken pipe. In Houston’s clay-heavy soil, soggy spots can also lead to drainage issues, harming your lawn’s health.
What to Do: Turn off your system and check for visible leaks. If you can’t find the source, our team at Superlative Service can perform a thorough inspection to pinpoint and repair the problem.
3. High Water Bills
A sudden spike in your water bill could signal a hidden leak in your irrigation system. Even small leaks can waste hundreds of gallons of water, especially during Houston’s warm months when sprinklers run frequently.
Action Step: Compare your recent water bills to past months. Or use a free water meter tracker called EyeOnWater for Badger Meters. If you suspect a leak, schedule a professional audit with Superlative Service to ensure your system is running efficiently.
4. Sprinkler Heads Not Popping Up or Retracting
Sprinkler heads that fail to pop up or retract properly can result from dirt buildup, broken components, or low water pressure. This is common with brands like Rain Bird, which we recommend for their durability but still require maintenance.
Maintenance Tip: Clear debris around the head and check for damage. If the head is broken, learn how to replace it correctly with our step-by-step guide.
5. Strange Noises from the System
Hissing, gurgling, or banging noises when your sprinkler system runs could indicate air in the lines, a damaged valve, or a pressure issue. These sounds are often early warnings of bigger problems that could disrupt your system’s performance.
Next Steps: Don’t ignore unusual noises. Our Houston-based technicians can diagnose the issue and restore your system’s functionality.
Why Choose Superlative Service for Sprinkler Repairs?
Houston homeowners trust Superlative Service for fast, reliable irrigation repairs. With over three decades of experience, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing sprinkler issues, from minor adjustments to complete system overhauls. Our team uses high-quality parts, like Rain Bird components, to ensure long-lasting results.
Ready to get your sprinkler system back in top shape? Contact Superlative Service today for a free quote in Houston, Spring, or San Antonio. Don’t let irrigation problems ruin your lawn—let us help you keep it green and healthy!
