Is Your Irrigation System Failing? 5 Key Signs

A lush, green lawn requires consistent watering, but what happens when your irrigation system isn’t working properly? Over time, irrigation systems can face wear and tear or become inefficient, leading to poor water coverage and unhealthy grass. Recognizing the signs that your lawn needs irrigation system repair or installation can help you save time, money, and frustration while ensuring your lawn gets the water it needs to thrive. Here are the top 5 signs that your lawn may need irrigation system repair or a complete overhaul.

1. Uneven Water Coverage

One of the most obvious signs that your irrigation system isn’t functioning properly is uneven watering. If you notice patches of your lawn that are consistently dry, while other areas are overly saturated, your system could have broken or misaligned sprinkler heads, clogged nozzles, or faulty valves. Inconsistent watering can lead to an unhealthy lawn, so it’s important to get your system checked.

What to do: If you spot uneven water distribution, it's time to call an irrigation specialist. They can realign or replace malfunctioning components to ensure your system provides even coverage.

2. Increased Water Bills

Is your water bill higher than usual? An irrigation system that’s leaking or malfunctioning can waste a significant amount of water, driving up your utility costs. Leaky pipes, broken sprinkler heads, or damaged hoses can all contribute to water loss, making your system inefficient and costly.

What to do: If you notice an increase in your water bill, have a professional irrigation technician inspect your system for leaks or inefficiencies. A timely repair can help reduce water waste and lower your monthly bills.

3. Dry Patches or Brown Spots

Dry patches or brown spots in your lawn can be a telltale sign that your irrigation system isn’t reaching those areas effectively. The grass may not be getting enough water, or the sprinkler heads may be clogged or broken, preventing proper coverage.

What to do: If you notice these dry spots, the issue could be as simple as adjusting or cleaning the sprinkler heads. If that doesn’t solve the problem, you may need a full system inspection to check for deeper issues like clogs in the pipes or broken components.

4. Standing Water or Flooding

If you notice areas of standing water or flooding in your yard after your irrigation system runs, there’s a good chance your system has a leak, a broken pipe, or a malfunctioning valve. Overwatering can also be caused by incorrectly set timers or programming errors in your system.

What to do: Flooding or standing water is a clear indication that something’s wrong. It’s essential to turn off your irrigation system and call a professional to diagnose and fix the issue before the excess water causes long-term damage to your lawn or landscape.

5. Outdated or Inefficient System

As technology improves, so do irrigation systems. If your system is more than 10-15 years old, it could be time for an upgrade. Older systems may not be as efficient, using more water and providing uneven coverage. Modern irrigation systems include smart controllers that can adjust watering based on weather patterns, helping you conserve water and maintain a healthier lawn.

What to do: If your irrigation system is outdated, consider replacing it with a more efficient model. Installing a new, water-saving irrigation system can save you money in the long run and keep your lawn healthy.

Ready to Keep Your Lawn Green and Healthy?

At High’s Lawn and Landscaping, we specialize in irrigation system repair and installation. Whether you need a quick fix for a broken sprinkler or are considering a complete system upgrade, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an irrigation system inspection and ensure your lawn stays hydrated and healthy all year long.