“Low Head Drainage” occurs when the lowest head on a zone allows water to drain from the lateral piping, out of the sprinkler. If it is low head drainage, residual water will stop flowing after all the water has left the pipe.

How do I fix low head drainage on my sprinkler system?

To correct low head drainage, the most common solution is to install check valves at each of the sprinkler heads or rotors. Sprinkler check valves help prevent the collected water from draining from the heads.

Is low head drainage normal?

The phenomenon you’re seeing is probably due to something called “low head drainage.” This typically happens when a sprinkler system is installed on a sloped area. The slope itself doesn’t have to be sharp. A change of elevation that’s less than 12 inches can still cause problems.

Why is there a puddle around my sprinkler head?

There are two reasons why there might be a wet spot around your sprinkler: The most common reason is called “Low Head Drainage.” This is when the lowest head on the zone drains residual water from the piping system out of the sprinkler. Eventually, the draining will stop after all the water has leaked out of the pipe.

Why do sprinkler heads leak when off?

The most common reason is called “Low Head Drainage”. “Low Head Drainage” occurs when the lowest head on a zone allows water to drain from the lateral piping, out of the sprinkler. If it is low head drainage, residual water will stop flowing after all the water has left the pipe.

How do you tell if you have a leak in your sprinkler system?

How to Tell If an Irrigation System is Leaking
Dry landscape. A lawn or yard that looks like it hasn’t been watered is an obvious sign that something may be wrong with your sprinkler system. Higher water bill. Pooling water around the sprinkler head. Low pressure. Visible damage.

Why is my sprinkler water pressure low?

The most common cause of low water pressure in sprinklers is the backflow preventer valves not opening fully. Even if the handles are partially turned or only one of them is turned, this is enough to restrict the water flow, resulting in a low-pressure sprinkler and dried out plants.

How do you find a slow water leak?

6 Ways To Find Hidden Water Leaks
Check your water meter. One of the best ways to tell if you have a leak in some part of your plumbing is to check the water meter. Look at your usage. Monitor your bill. Grab some food coloring. Check exterior usage. Use common sense.

Should my sprinkler valves be on or off?

Make sure the sprinkler valve is closed, unless it’s the valve farthest from the main water source. You’ll want to leave this valve open and remove the sprinkler nozzle to allow air to escape when you turn on the water.

Why do pop up sprinklers leak?

A leak that seems to originate underground is most likely the result of a broken fitting where the sprinkler head is attached to the supply pipe. If the water seeps from the base of the extended riser while spraying, the gasket inside the riser body needs to be replaced.

What does a hunter check valve do?

Hunter manufactures the HCV with the check valve set to compensate for 12 feet of elevation change. If you have a check valve installed below ground, this eliminates the need to unthread the sprinkler should you want to adjust the check height at a later time.

Should I use Teflon tape on sprinkler heads?

Standard Teflon tape or plastic compatible Teflon sealant around the riser or swing joint threads is all that is required to prevent leaks around the inlet threads of Hunter sprinklers. The Teflon also provides a long-lasting lubricant should it become necessary to remove the sprinkler for servicing.

Is it normal for sprinkler valves to leak?

The most common reason leaks occur is that the rubber parts in the valve box have worn out. Water seeps freely through the system when the diaphragm seal breaks or debris is obstructing the valve from closing. This means unnecessary water is flowing 24/7 and could be causing other issues in your landscaping.

Why does my Rainbird sprinkler head leak?

The sprinkler is leaking – This is normally caused by worn washers and seals. They should be replaced at this time. The sprinkler is not throwing as far as it should – This is usually caused by some type of blockage, either in the nozzle or the inlet screen.