5 Signs It's Time To Call A Pro For Your Sprinkler System

After 15 years servicing sprinkler systems across Utah County, I've learned to spot the warning signs that homeowners often miss. While some sprinkler issues seem minor at first, they can quickly turn into expensive disasters that damage your lawn and property.

Most homeowners try to fix everything themselves, but sprinkler systems are more complex than they appear. Knowing when to call professional sprinkler repair services can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent major headaches down the road.

Sign 1: Water Won't Stop Running

When your sprinkler zone keeps running after the timer shuts off, you have a serious problem. This usually means a stuck valve or damaged diaphragm that can't close properly.

I see this issue weekly during peak season. Last month, a customer in Orem let a stuck valve run for three days while they were out of town. Their water bill jumped $400, and the constant flooding killed their entire front lawn.

Why this needs professional attention: Stuck valves often have multiple causes. The valve might be clogged with debris, the diaphragm could be warped, or electrical signals might be crossed. Professional technicians have the tools and experience to diagnose the root cause quickly.

What happens if you wait: Continuous water flow wastes thousands of gallons and can flood your foundation, kill grass from overwatering, and create standing water that attracts mosquitoes and pests.

Sign 2: Multiple Zones Failing at Once

When several sprinkler zones stop working simultaneously, you're dealing with a system-wide problem that goes beyond simple repairs.

Common causes include controller failure, main line breaks, or electrical issues affecting multiple circuits. These problems require diagnostic equipment and system knowledge that most homeowners don't have.

Why this needs professional attention: Multiple zone failures often indicate problems with your main water supply, electrical controller, or primary wiring. These repairs involve specialized parts and technical expertise.

What happens if you wait: Your entire lawn can suffer without proper irrigation. In Utah's hot summers, grass can die within a week. Replacing dead landscaping costs far more than professional repairs.

Sign 3: Dramatically Higher Water Bills

A sudden spike in your water bill often signals hidden leaks in your irrigation system. Underground pipe breaks or faulty valves can waste massive amounts of water without obvious signs above ground.

I recently helped a Highland homeowner whose water bill tripled over two months. We found a main line break that had been running constantly underground, creating a hidden sinkhole in their backyard.

Why this needs professional attention: Finding hidden leaks requires specialized leak detection equipment. Professional technicians use acoustic sensors and pressure testing to locate problems without destroying your landscape.

What happens if you wait: Underground leaks worsen over time, causing soil erosion, foundation settling, and exponentially higher water costs. Early detection saves money and prevents structural damage.

Sign 4: Uneven Water Coverage Creating Dead Spots

When parts of your lawn stay green while other areas turn brown despite regular watering, your sprinkler system isn't distributing water evenly.

This problem stems from clogged nozzles, misaligned heads, incorrect pressure settings, or zone design issues. While it seems cosmetic, uneven coverage indicates deeper system problems.

Why this needs professional attention: Proper water distribution requires understanding hydraulics, pressure requirements, and sprinkler head specifications. Professionals can redesign zones and adjust pressure to ensure complete coverage.

What happens if you wait: Dead spots expand as grass roots weaken from inconsistent watering. You'll eventually need to reseed or resod large areas, which costs significantly more than fixing the irrigation problem.

Sign 5: System Won't Turn On After Winter

Spring startup problems are common in Utah County due to our harsh winters. If your system won't activate after winter, you likely have freeze damage that requires professional repair.

Frozen pipes crack, valve components break, and electrical connections fail during cold months. I see dozens of freeze-damaged systems every spring that need extensive repairs.

Why this needs professional attention: Freeze damage assessment requires pressure testing and systematic component checking. Some damage isn't visible until the system runs under full pressure.

What happens if you wait: Attempting to run a freeze-damaged system can cause additional breaks and flooding. What starts as a few cracked fittings can become a complete system failure if pressurized incorrectly.

Your Sprinkler System Deserves Professional Care

Don't let minor sprinkler problems turn into major disasters. Recognizing these five warning signs and calling for professional help quickly protects your investment in both your irrigation system and landscape.

At Local Sprinkler Pros, we've been serving Utah County homeowners since 2010 with reliable sprinkler system repair and maintenance. Our experienced technicians understand local conditions and use quality parts that perform well in our climate.

Whether you're dealing with stuck valves, multiple zone failures, or mysterious water bill increases, we provide fast, professional solutions throughout Lehi, Orem, Provo, American Fork, Highland, and surrounding areas. Don't wait for small problems to become expensive disasters - contact us today for expert sprinkler system repair.