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An efficient irrigation system is the key to maintaining a lush, green lawn. However, there’s always something that can damage your irrigation lines. This guide will walk you through common irrigation issues and their solutions, helping you keep your lawn healthy and your water usage in check. In the video above, This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows host Kevin O’Connor the key differences between standard plumbing and irrigation systems while demonstrating how to make basic repairs.
Understanding Irrigation Systems
Irrigation systems are designed to deliver water to your lawn and garden. Unlike the plumbing in your home, these systems operate at lower pressures and use different materials.
Although they come from the same source, there are significant differences between your home’s water system and the irrigation system feeding your sprinklers or garden.
Potable Water Systems
Home water systems typically operate at high pressures, around 40–50 pounds per square inch (PSI). This requires secure, heavy-duty fittings on either copper or cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) tubing. Options for these connections include the following:
- Barbed fittings with high-strength stainless steel clamps
- Compression fittings
- Push-on fittings
- Soldered fittings
Irrigation Systems
Irrigation systems, on the other hand, operate at much lower pressures. These systems don’t require the same heavy-duty connections or fittings. The flexible tubing used for irrigation has thinner sidewalls than typical PEX, making these parts less expensive but more susceptible to damage.
Common Causes of Irrigation Damage
Irrigation systems play a significant role in lawn and garden health but may also be prone to damage. Here are the most common ways lawn irrigation systems sustain damage:
- Digging holes for planting or landscaping projects
- Driving tent stakes into the ground for outdoor events
- Frost heave in colder climates
- Lawn aeration
- Tree removal processes
- Wear and tear over time
It doesn’t take much force to damage an irrigation tube. A sharp object simply touching the tubing with minimal pressure can slice a hole and cause a leak.
How To Find Irrigation Problems
Before you can fix an issue, you need to identify it. Here are some signs that your irrigation system might need repair:
- Dry patches on your lawn
- Low water pressure in your sprinklers
- Sprinkler heads that aren’t functioning properly
- Unusually high water bills
- Wet spots or pooling water in your yard
Steps To Repair an Irrigation System
If you’ve identified a problem with your irrigation system, you can repair it by following these steps:
- Shut off the irrigation system at the main control valve to stop water flow.
- Locate the damaged area and excavate around it to gain access.
- Cut the tubing a few inches on either side of the damaged section.
- Take the damaged piece to a hardware store to match fittings, clamps, and replacement tubing.
- Make fresh, square cuts on the existing tubing.
- Slip the ring clamps over the tubing.
- Use a heat gun to warm the tubing ends to make them more flexible.
- Push barbed fittings into the warmed tubing ends.
- Measure and cut the replacement tubing to fit between the fittings.
- Warm the ends of the replacement tubing and push them onto the barbed fittings.
- Use hose clamp pliers to tighten all the clamps.
Tools and Materials for Irrigation Repair
Gather the following tools and materials to repair your irrigation system:
- Barbed fittings
- Bucket (to catch any water)
- Heat gun
- Hose clamp pliers
- Replacement tubing
- Ring clamps
- Shovel (for excavation)
- Tubing cutter
Types of Irrigation Fittings
As Trethewey illustrates in the video above, there are several different types of irrigation fittings. Below, we’ve outlined the most common fitting types you might encounter.
Barbed Fittings
Barbed fittings are available for tubing sizes ranging from one-quarter of an inch to 1 inch. The connection’s sharp barbs hold the fitting in place. You can use stainless steel locking clamps to make the connections even tighter.
Compression Fittings
These low-cost fittings are popular due to their full-flow characteristics and ease of installation. They work well with the polyethylene tubing used in most irrigation systems.
Threaded Fittings
Often used to connect components like threaded risers, these fittings help ensure a leak-free connection. You can use them to create transitions between different material types or connect to valves and other system components.
Maintaining Your Irrigation System
Regular maintenance will keep your irrigation system running smoothly. Taking proactive measures and promptly making necessary repairs can save you money and time.
Regular Inspections
Perform regular checks on your irrigation system to identify potential issues before they become major problems. Ensure you inspect all components, from the tubing to the sprinkler heads.
Seasonal Adjustments
Depending on the season, make the necessary adjustments as follows:
- Summer: Increase watering frequency during hot months.
- Winter: In colder climates, winterize your system by draining all water and blowing it out with a compressor to prevent the pipes from freezing and cracking.
Cleaning Components
Keep your irrigation system’s parts clean to increase their lifespan. Remove debris from filters and sprinkler heads to maintain optimal water flow.
Enhancing Your Irrigation System
In addition to routine maintenance, periodic upgrades can enhance your irrigation system by improving efficiency and saving on water costs.
Upgraded Sprinkler Heads
Modern sprinkler heads can distribute water more efficiently, reducing waste and ensuring even coverage across your lawn. The benefits of upgraded sprinkler heads include the following:
- Adjustable options: Many new heads allow for precise control of water distribution.
- Durability: Upgraded models often come with higher-quality materials, which resist wear and tear.
- Water efficiency: Newer models focus on minimizing water use.
Smart Irrigation Controllers
Smart controllers can automate watering schedules based on weather conditions, watering your lawn only when necessary. As a result, smart irrigation controllers offer the following advantages:
- Convenience: Smart controllers are easy to manage via smartphone apps.
- Environmental benefit: This smart technology reduces water wastage, promoting sustainable practices.
- Water savings: These systems learn and adapt to your landscape’s needs, avoiding excess watering.
Drip Irrigation
For gardens or specific plant areas, drip irrigation systems can deliver water directly to the plant roots, enhancing efficiency and reducing evaporation losses. Other benefits of drip irrigation systems include the following:
- Efficiency: Drip systems often use less water than traditional sprinklers.
- Flexibility: You can easily customize a drip irrigation system to fit different garden layouts.
- Targeted watering: Drip irrigation systems direct water where it’s most needed.
Tips for Successful Irrigation Repair
To ensure your irrigation system repairs are successful and long-lasting, keep the following tips in mind:
- Always use the correct fitting size for your tubing.
- Check that all connections are tight and secure.
- Consider marking your irrigation lines’ locations to prevent future damage.
- Regularly inspect your system for signs of wear or damage.
- Test the repaired section before burying it.
Preventing Future Irrigation Issues
While repairs are sometimes necessary, prevention is always better. Here are some strategies to minimize future irrigation problems:
- Be cautious when digging or planting in your yard.
- Create a map of your irrigation system layout.
- Educate family members and landscapers about your irrigation lines’ locations.
- Perform regular maintenance checks on your system.
- Use flags or markers to show the locations of underground lines.
- Winterize your irrigation system in colder climates.
When To Call a Professional for Irrigation Repair
While you can handle some irrigation repairs as DIY projects, many situations may require professional help. Consult with a professional irrigation specialist if you’re unsure about your ability to handle a repair, especially in the following scenarios:
- Extensive damage to the system
- Issues with the main irrigation line
- Lack of proper tools or expertise
- Multiple or recurring leaks
- Problems with the system’s electrical components
Our Conclusion
Irrigation repairs may seem daunting but are often manageable for the average homeowner. With the right tools, materials, and knowledge, you can keep your irrigation system running smoothly and preserve your lush lawn while maintaining efficient water usage. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help to avoid costly mistakes if you’re uncertain about your ability to make repairs or upgrades.
Resources
In the video above, Trethewey discusses different connector options for irrigation repairs, shares how to choose the correct fitting size, and outlines the installation process. Here are the three main fittings he mentions:
- Barbed fittings: These fittings are available for tubing sizes from one-quarter of an inch up to 1 inch. The connection’s sharp barbs hold the fitting in place. You can use stainless steel locking clamps to make the connections even tighter.
- Compression fittings: These low-cost fittings are popular because of their full-flow characteristics and ease of installation.
- Threaded fittings: You can use these fittings to connect components like threaded risers so they don’t leak.
