Jessica ZanderIf you’re aiming for a healthy yard, you need enough water to keep it so. This means that the sprinkler system set up in your yard needs to be working properly. However, many things could go wrong with your sprinkler system, but most times, it is because of not enough water pressure for your sprinkler. Low water pressure can cause the sprinkler to malfunction, and if you’re one of those plagued with the problem of not having enough water pressure for sprinklers, this is the article for you.
By the time this article draws to a close, you’ll be acquainted with:
- Causes of low water pressure
- Solutions to low water pressure
Fascinating, isn’t it? Let’s take a look.
Contents
Causes of Low Water Pressure
The problem of not enough water pressure for sprinklers is a common one, and there are usually many factors that cause it; some of these causes include:
1. Backflow Preventer Valve Malfunction
Most of the time, there is not enough water pressure for sprinklers because the backflow preventer valves are not opening fully. There are two pipes in every backflow preventer, and one is horizontal while the other is vertical. These pipes come with handles that can be turned to open the valve or run with the line. The valve is only completely open when both are turned parallel, and if they’re only partially turned, it could restrict water flow, causing not enough water pressure for your sprinkler.
2. Broken Line
There are times when work is done in the yard or the movement of cable lines, electricity lines, or gas pipes can cause low water pressure. When someone who is digging hits the sprinkler line with a tool, it can cause damage to be done to the line, leading to low water pressure.
3. Dirt Clogs
Sometimes, the real cause of low water pressure is simply the sprinkler head. There is a need for the sprinkler head to be free of dirt clogs before water can flow freely. Sometimes, grass could be causing the clog on your sprinkler head.
Solutions to Low Water Pressure
Now that you’re aware of what could be causing not enough water pressure for your sprinklers, below are solutions to these problems.
1. Turn on the Valves at Backflow Device
This is the simplest solution to the problem; ensure that the backflow device is completely open. The device can be found above ground with the valves 10 inches above the sprinkler heads. Turn the valves till they parallel to the pipe to open them all the way.
2. Find Leaks and Get Them Repaired
If there are damages done to your sprinkler lines, you need to find them. Look for little signs that signify leaks in your sprinkler line. You could do this by following running water to its source or looking for a very wet area. Once you find the damaged area, call for repairs to be done.
3. Look Out For Crushed Pipes
If there are no leaks, there might be crushed or obstructed pipes somewhere. This is possible if your pipe is close to a tree that could wrap its roots around the pipe and squeeze it or if vehicles continually climb over it and crush it. Check for crushed pipes, or call a professional to get it done for you.
4. Clean Sprinkler Heads
Another simple solution would be getting the sprinkler heads clean, take out the sprinkler head, and removed the filter located within. Rinse in clean water and then replace the sprinkler head for the water pressure to increase.
I've been passionate about gardening since the early 1990s, and in 2022, I launched You Can Do It Gardening to empower individuals to feel more confident in their gardening endeavors.
Following a 30-year career in nonprofit finance and operations, I transitioned out of that field in mid-June of 2023 due to the growing demand for coaching services. Interestingly, my years of presenting financial statements to boards and finance committees proved to be valuable experience for teaching people about gardening! I enjoy sharing skills, providing guidance and suggestions, and collaborating efficiently with clients to make significant improvements to their outdoor spaces, both small and large. I also regularly teach at the Arlington Continuing Education and Cambridge Adult Education.
My approach is direct and practical, akin to Mary Poppins, but tailored to your garden. Clients find satisfaction in saving money and taking pride in their own gardening achievements.
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Hello! I’m Jessica Zander, a garden coach and consultant based in the Boston area (zone 6b), offering virtual consultations across the country and Canada.
I’ve been passionate about gardening since the early 1990s, and in 2022, I launched You Can Do It Gardening to empower individuals to feel more confident in their gardening endeavors.
Following a 30-year career in nonprofit finance and operations, I transitioned out of that field in mid-June of 2023 due to the growing demand for coaching services. Interestingly, my years of presenting financial statements to boards and finance committees proved to be valuable experience for teaching people about gardening! I enjoy sharing skills, providing guidance and suggestions, and collaborating efficiently with clients to make significant improvements to their outdoor spaces, both small and large. I also regularly teach at the Arlington Continuing Education and Cambridge Adult Education.
My approach is direct and practical, akin to Mary Poppins, but tailored to your garden. Clients find satisfaction in saving money and taking pride in their own gardening achievements.
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