Repairing Your Sprinkler System

When faced with a problematic sprinkler system, it is really easy to feel like it is the end of the world. This is usually due to the fact that sprinkler systems often seem overly complex, and difficult to understand. Luckily this couldn't be further from the truth. Repairing your sprinkler system is actually quite easy, as long as you keep in mind one general rule: Don't panic. Here are a few other things to keep in mind the next time you need to do some sprinkler repairs.

• Identify the location. When you first notice a problem with your sprinkler system you need to identify the location of the problem. This task is usually pretty easy to do. For example, if the pipe is busted, then you may see a large wet and muddy spot in your yard that wasn't there before. If you have a sprinkler head that isn't working properly, then you will notice that there is no water coming out of that particular sprinkler head. When you have identified where the problem is, turn off the water main, so that you can begin working on uncovering the problem location. Remove the section of damaged pipe, or the pipe head, and take it with you to your local home improvement store.
• Get the materials. With the problem part in hand, and go to your local home improvement store. Show the malfunctioning material or part to a sales associate, and they will help you find the appropriate replacement. In many cases, they will also remind you to get the appropriate side materials as well (such as any caulking or sealant) as well as show you how to use it properly.
• Do your own repair. After you have obtained the appropriate replacement parts and materials, go home and begin doing your own repair. Often this will simply entail that you replace the missing or malfunctioning part. Once the repair has been completed, be sure that you also replace any soil and sod that you may have dug up.
• Hire a professional. If you do not want to do the work yourself, or you are afraid that you may damage something, then you can also hire a professional to do it for you. This is often a great idea since good professionals will often guarantee their work, and know exactly what to do. Keep in mind though that this method is usually much more expensive than doing the work yourself. On the plus side, you can pretty much be certain that the work will be done correctly.