Sprinkler systems are a tricky business if you’re not a professional. One of the most common issues that come up with them is damaged valves, which can prove to be a small problem that grows without proper handling. While it’s always best to let a professional handle a sprinkler valve repair, here are a few easy steps to get you by.

Knowing When You Need a Repair

Do you need a valve repair? Recognizing the signs of a problem is the first step to getting to the bottom of the issue. Pay attention to these issues, and make your next move from there. You may have a damaged valve if:

Your water pressure is lower than normal
Less force when it comes to the spray of water
You have standing water in marshy sections of your yard
There is no debris stuck in the value blocking the spray

Find the Damage

Most sprinkler valves are underground, which will make it difficult to locate on your own. Unless you have a full map of the placement of your irrigation system, you won’t be able to check out the valve on your own. This is why a specialist is preferred, but if you do know the location of the problem, you get there on your own.

By checking the wires and coils, you can determine if there is damage to the valve that way. If you see evidence of them being frayed, cut, or disconnected, it’s probably an electrical issue more than the valve itself.

If all looks well, it’s going to be a valve replacement on your hands.

Replacing the Valve

In three steps, you or a professional can get the job done quickly and easily. If you’re unfamiliar with this kind of repair work, you should make sure to get the help of your sprinkler company who handled the installation for you. They’ll often be willing to fix any problems or replace damaged sections under warranty.

Step One

All water and electricity should be turned off before starting any sort of work on the valve.

Step Two

Remove the valve and all other related and/or damaged pieces from the valve box. You’ll need to unscrew it for access.

Step Three

Put the replacement, or the repaired valve piece, back in the box and fix the wiring to the new valve. Now you can screw everything in and close the box.

Once you’ve done this, you’re set to test it out slowly by introducing power back to the system.

Prevention Plan

The best way to avoid having to repair your valves or other parts of the irrigation system is to keep up with maintenance and lawn care frequently to identify problems early on. A specialized company that cares for irrigation systems can handle not only the initial installation but all other repair and maintenance issues that may arise.

Regularly take note of how the zones of your sprinkler system function, and record any changes and their potential causes. You should also be paying close attention to your lawn and any plants on it to notice any problems.

Seek out advice first before ever trying to handle repairs on your own.

How to Handle a Damaged Sprinkler Valve