This is the Hessenauer Sprinkler Repair and Irrigation blog and website. We provide our Website visitors with news, tips and advice concerning sprinkler irrigation. Today we would like to give our online readers some tips about fixing clogged sprinkler nozzles.
Sprinkler heads require basic maintenance to prevent clogs. Like a shower head in a bathroom, the head of a lawn sprinkler can become clogged, resulting in low or non-existent water pressure. Dirt and debris from the lawn such as twigs, grass blades and mud can clog sprinkler head nozzles. Since spray heads are so close to the ground in in-ground or low-lying sprinkler systems, they are often victim to clogs.
In some cases, the homeowner can fix the clog himself, but other times it is best to consult a professional. Sensitive and delicate parts of the sprinkler irrigation system could be easily damaged.
Clogged sprinkler nozzles are cause by dirt or debris working its way into the sprinkler head. This can prevent the sprinkler head from spraying properly, causing gaps in the spray pattern, which will lead to brown patches. The first step in diagnosing brown spot is to observe the sprinkler while it is running. You’ll be able to see if overgrown plants are blocking the sprinkler, the head is broken, or the spray pattern is being internally disrupted.
A small wire or bent paperclip is often sufficient to clear basic buildup on a lawn sprinkler head. Press the end of the wire or clip into the holes where water should squirt to clear blockages on many types of sprinkler heads; this is best done while the water is off, unless you don’t mind getting wet.
Some models of sprinklers feature parts which can be dismantled from the head without causing damage. These types of sprinkler heads unscrew or have a locking ring around them, revealing a small screen inside. This screen may be the cause of the clog and should be rinsed or cleaned out before reassembling the sprinkler head. Consulting a manual is always the best option, so you don’t damage the sprinkler head. Some sprinklers are easily damaged by even basic tool pressure.
Brass sprinkler heads rise with water pressure. These can be quite heavy, so a good deal of water pressure is needed to get them working properly. Inadequate water pressure may give the impression of clogged sprinkler heads, especially if you notice this on several sprinkler heads in a row. Turning the water pressure to maximum may clear the problem. If there really is a clog, there may be debris around the seal at the stem of the sprinkler head and clearing that out should solve the problem.
Don’t try to remove a nozzle by prying at it with a screwdriver. Both rotor and spray nozzles are easy to remove, but must be removed carefully to avoid damage.
Thank you for visiting the Hessenauer Sprinkler Repair and Irrigation blog and website. If you have issues that need attention here in the Central Florida and Orlando areas, contact us today at 407-302-2227 for an estimate. Bookmark our blog and website and come back soon!