A healthy, green lawn depends on a reliable sprinkler system. But like any piece of equipment, sprinklers need regular care to work their best. Neglecting them can lead to water waste, brown patches, or even damage to your landscape.
In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to maintain your lawn sprinklers—so you can keep your yard looking its best all year long.
Why Sprinkler Maintenance Matters
Sprinklers may seem like a “set it and forget it” system, but they need attention. Over time, heads can clog, pipes can leak, and water coverage may become uneven.
When sprinklers aren’t working right, you waste water and your lawn sprinklers. Regular maintenance helps you catch small issues before they turn into big problems.
It also saves money in the long run. A little time spent checking your system now can help you avoid expensive repairs later.
Step 1: Do a Seasonal Check-Up
Before each season, especially spring and fall, take time to check your sprinkler system.
Start by turning on the water and walking around your yard. Watch each sprinkler zone closely. Are all the heads popping up? Do they spray in the right direction? Are any of them leaking or making strange noises?
If something looks or sounds off, take note. Catching problems early will make repairs easier and cheaper.
Step 2: Clean Sprinkler Heads
Sprinkler heads often get clogged with dirt, grass, or debris. This is one of the most common reasons they stop working properly.
To clean a head, gently pull it up and unscrew the nozzle. Rinse it under water to remove any buildup. Use a small brush or even a toothpick to clear out any dirt inside.
Check the filter too. If it’s dirty or worn out, clean or replace it.
Once everything looks clean, screw the head back on and test it again.
Step 3: Check Water Pressure
Water pressure can affect how well your sprinklers perform. If the pressure is too low, your lawn won’t get enough water. If it’s too high, it can damage the sprinkler system.
You can buy a pressure gauge at most hardware stores. Attach it to an outdoor spigot and turn on the water.
Most sprinkler systems work best with water pressure between 40 and 65 PSI (pounds per square inch). If it’s out of range, you might need a pressure regulator or to call a professional.
Step 4: Inspect for Leaks
Leaks waste water and can cause soggy spots in your yard.
Look for signs like:
- Wet patches in dry weather
- A sudden spike in your water bill
- Water bubbling up around sprinkler heads
If you suspect a leak, dig carefully around the area to find the source. Common causes include cracked pipes, loose fittings, or broken sprinkler heads.
Fixing leaks early can save you money and prevent damage to your lawn.
Step 5: Adjust the Spray Pattern
Sprinklers should water your grass, not the sidewalk or driveway.
Use the adjustment screw on top of each head to control the spray pattern. You can often change the angle, distance, and direction with just a flathead screwdriver.
Walk around your yard and make sure every area is getting even coverage. Pay extra attention to corners and edges, where dry spots can form.
A well-adjusted system helps keep your lawn healthy and reduces water waste.
Step 6: Test the Timer or Controller
Your sprinkler timer is the brain of the system. It tells the sprinklers when to turn on, how long to run, and which zones to water.
At the start of each season, test the timer. Make sure all settings are correct for the time of day, the season, and your watering schedule.
If you have a smart controller, check that it’s connected to Wi-Fi and updating properly. If it’s an older model, consider upgrading to a newer one with water-saving features.
Set it to water early in the morning or late at night to reduce evaporation and save on water bills.
Step 7: Winterize Your System
If you live in an area that gets freezing temperatures, winterizing your sprinkler system is a must.
Water left in the pipes can freeze and cause them to crack. That means big repair bills in the spring.
To winterize, shut off the water supply to the system. Then, use an air compressor to blow out any remaining water from the lines. This step is often best done by a professional, especially if you’re unsure how to do it safely.
Don’t skip this step—it’s one of the most important parts of sprinkler maintenance.
Step 8: Replace Worn or Broken Parts
Even with regular care, sprinkler parts wear out over time.
Keep an eye out for:
- Cracked sprinkler heads
- Stiff or noisy valves
- Broken risers or pipes
- Faded or glitchy timers
Most replacement parts are easy to find at home improvement stores. Swapping out a broken head or nozzle takes just a few minutes.
Upgrading old parts to newer, more efficient models can also help you save water and improve performance.
Step 9: Check Coverage with a Can Test
Want to know if your lawn is getting even water coverage? Try a simple can test.
Place empty tuna cans or similar containers around your yard. Run your sprinkler system for about 15–20 minutes.
Afterward, measure the water in each can with a ruler. If one can has way more or less water than the others, your system might need adjusting.
This test helps ensure every part of your lawn gets the right amount of water.
Step 10: Know When to Call a Pro
Some sprinkler problems are easy to fix on your own. But others might need a professional touch.
Call in help if you:
- Can’t find the source of a leak
- Need to dig up pipes or wires
- Have electrical issues with your timer
- Want to upgrade or redesign your whole system
Hiring a licensed lawn care professional can save you time and prevent costly mistakes.
Bonus Tips for Healthy Lawns
Sprinklers are just one part of a healthy lawn. Here are a few extra tips to keep your yard in top shape:
- Water deeply, not often. It’s better to water your lawn less frequently but for longer periods. This encourages deep roots.
- Mow smart. Don’t cut more than one-third of the grass height at once. Keep your mower blades sharp.
- Fertilize wisely. Use the right type and amount of fertilizer for your grass type and season.
- Aerate once a year. This helps water, air, and nutrients reach the roots.
When all parts work together—water, mowing, feeding, and care—you’ll have a lawn you can be proud of.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your lawn sprinklers doesn’t have to be hard. With regular checks and a little effort, you can avoid common problems, save money, and keep your lawn looking green and fresh.
Whether you’re a homeowner who loves DIY or someone who prefers to call in the pros, this guide gives you the tools to make smart choices for your yard.
And remember, if you’re ever unsure or need a hand, Lawn Care by Dan is here to help. Our team has years of experience helping families and businesses across Clark County, including Vancouver, Camas, and Ridgefield, keep their landscapes looking their best.
Want help with your sprinkler system? Visit our website or give us a call. Let’s get your lawn looking great—starting today.
