Things That Could Be Causing Your Irrigation System to Have Low Pressure

Low water pressure in your irrigation system is usually an indication of several potential issues. The first problem you may think of is a broken pipe, which could certainly be the case. It could also be that your sprinkler heads are clogged and need to be cleaned or replaced. However, there are several other factors to consider. Your waterlines might need to be checked for any obstructions throughout the system, and the main water valve or backflow preventer valve can malfunction and need repairing. Whatever the issue might be, you should contact a professional to know exactly what is causing your low water pressure. Otherwise, your property in Tennessee won't be able to receive the proper hydration to keep its lawn and plants in good shape.

Low water pressure could mean a broken water line.

When a water pipe in your irrigation system is broken, it can lead to water leakage and, consequently, a drop in water pressure. This can happen when the pipe's surface cracks or when it sustains significant damage due to external forces such as the roots of trees or shrubs. In such a scenario, water will escape through the damaged section and not reach the intended location, causing the water pressure to drop. This problem can be identified by visually inspecting the irrigation system for any signs of leakage or by checking the water pressure gauge. If you notice any of these symptoms, turning off the water supply is recommended to avoid wasting water.

The backflow preventer valve of your irrigation system may malfunction.

An important component in your irrigation system is its backflow preventer valve. This is responsible for controlling the direction of water that flows in the system, ensuring that there is no backflow into your drinking water, which could lead to contamination. Over time, backflow preventer valves can malfunction or become damaged, and as a result, they may not function correctly. For instance, if the valve is not fully open, it can restrict the water flow, leading to low water pressure and hindering the proper delivery of water through your system.

Your irrigation system could have clogged sprinkler heads.

The sprinkler heads in an irrigation system are located close to the ground where dirt and debris collect. It's only natural that, over time, these sprinkler heads can become clogged. This blockage can occur in the nozzle, filter, or other parts, causing a reduction in water pressure and preventing water from shooting across your lawn. In some cases, cleaning the sprinkler heads can fix the issue, but sometimes, a replacement may be necessary.

The water valve of your irrigation system is only partially open.

When you experience low water pressure in your irrigation system, it may be due to various factors, one of which is an issue with the water source. In particular, if the main water valve supplying your irrigation system is not fully open, then your system may not get enough water pressure to work correctly. To address this issue, you will need to check the mechanism controlling the main water valve. If it is not set in the right position, then you can adjust it to increase water pressure. However, if adjusting the mechanism does not solve the problem, other underlying issues may exist. For instance, there could be an electrical malfunction or a blockage in the valve itself, or the valve may have rusted or become stuck over time, especially if it has not been used for an extended period.

There could be an obstruction in the lines of your irrigation system.

Over time, your irrigation system's water lines may gather debris, which can cause obstructions. Hard water may cause a buildup of minerals, especially calcium, which can accumulate and obstruct the system. Other foreign materials, such as roots from nearby trees or plants, can also find their way inside the water lines. Roots have been known to infiltrate water lines, consuming water but also obstructing it from reaching sprinkler heads, ultimately reducing the water pressure.

Hire a professional to fix your irrigation system's low water pressure!

If you have been experiencing low water pressure in your irrigation system, it is important to get it fixed as soon as possible. Low water pressure can lead to poor irrigation, which can negatively impact the health of your plants and grass. To address this issue, it is recommended to hire a professional irrigation specialist who can identify the root cause of the problem and provide an effective solution. Professionals are trained and have the experience to find and repair the issue, potentially on-site and without additional visits. This also avoids any complications that can occur if you try to fix it yourself.

Call to schedule our irrigation repair service!

If you're facing low water pressure or any other issues with your irrigation system, you can count on us to solve the problem for you. With 19 years of experience in repairing irrigation systems, we have the necessary knowledge and expertise to tackle all types of issues. Our irrigation repair service is available in Memphis, TN, and other nearby areas such as Midtown Memphis and East Memphis. Call us at (901) 246-7656 to schedule our services today!