The Most Common Irrigation System Problems and Their Simple Solutions!

Though there are many types of irrigation systems in use today, many suffer from some of the same problems.

Whether running a center pivot system, a drip system, or any other irrigation system, these are the most common issues that require irrigation system repair and how they can be resolved.

  • Leaky Sprinkler Nozzles - Sprinkler nozzles and heads can begin to wear out after years of use to the point that they are no longer as precise in their water delivery as they once were. When nozzles no longer seal properly, deliver too much water, or drip even when the system is turned off, it is time for irrigation system repair. Cleaning can help, but the best solution when leaks cannot be stopped is simply replacing the damaged nozzle with a new one. To this purpose, it is recommended that nozzles be inspected regularly and that extra nozzles be kept available at all times so they can be switched out when necessary to reduce water wastage. 
  • Sprinkler Nozzle and Piping Blockages - Blockages in irrigation system piping, water feed tubes, and sprinkler nozzles happen frequently, usually due to debris getting into the system or minerals building up over time. When blockages are found, irrigation system services recommend flushing the system at high pressure, then running a cleaning cycle to remove any debris or buildup. Clogged nozzles can be removed and cleaned to clear out mineral blockages or simply replaced.  
  • Loss of Water Pressure - A drastic loss of water pressure preventing water delivery is another common occurrence when there are blockages in the irrigation system piping and water lines or substantial leaks. When the water is not reaching the sprinkler heads, irrigation system repair starts by doing a thorough examination and cleaning of the system to find areas of damage that might be leaking and to flush out debris or buildup that is blocking the flow of water to the nozzles.
  • Water Backflow and Contamination - When water flows backward through the irrigation system, it can re-enter the water source, contaminating it. This problem is commonly caused by damaged check valves or backflow preventers. These valves should be examined and tested, then replaced if they are no longer working to prevent backflow and keep water sources clean.

When leaks happen or water just does not seem to make it to the nozzle, irrigation system services find that these are the most common reasons why.

Fortunately, irrigation system repair to resolve these problems is fairly easy.

With a little bit of time to inspect as well as flush the system and potentially replace worn-out parts, farmers can have their irrigation systems up and running correctly again in almost no time.

If problems persist, contact a professional irrigation system installation and repair service that can help!