How to Fix a Sprinkler Head

Automatic sprinkler systems are great when they're working right. Unfortunately, it always seems something is going wrong with them, like a broken sprinkler head. Sprinkler heads can get broken in any number of ways--from lawn equipment hitting them to just dry rotting over long periods of time. It can be quite expensive calling out a repairman every time you need a need a new head. You should be able to replace the broken head yourself and save a couple of dollars.

Things You'll Need

• Replacement sprinkler head
• Shovel

Instructions

1. Turn on your sprinkler system and go through each zone. You'll want to be able to note where the problem is occurring. Usually when one head is broken, the whole system in that particular zone won't operate properly. You might even notice a washed out area where the water has just been bubbling out of the ground where the head is broken. If your grass is turning brown in sections, check the sprinkler system for a break. If everything is working fine, you might have a fungus or pests in the yard.

2. Mark the area where the broken sprinkler head is located. You'll want to be able to find the area when you go to replace the head.

3. Dig out around the area of the broken head before you remove it. Otherwise, dirt and other debris will fall into the area when you remove the old head. The opening where the water flows into the head may become clogged with dirt that impedes the flow of water.

4. Remove the broken sprinkler head and take it with you to your local hardware store. As you will see, there are are bunch of different style heads and you'll want to know you get the correct one. It might be smart to purchase an extra one so you'll have it in the event another head needs replacing in the future.

5. Wipe any dirt off the area where you will be screwing the new head into. You want to make sure you get a good, tight fit when you put the replacement head on. Once you've put the new head on, move the dirt back over the hole, making sure to not cover the new sprinkler head up.

6. Turn your sprinkler system back on to check out its performance. If your new head is properly installed, the system and all of the zones should work correctly.