Sprinkler Repair in Austin, TX

What are some warning signs that might indicate that I have a problem with my sprinklers?

If you notice any of the following happening in your yard, you probably want to get an expert out to recommend next steps:

• Sudden increases in your water bill (especially if you have ruled out other sources of water leaks)
• Areas of your yard being consistently too wet
• Areas of your yard being consistently too dry
• Plants or grass looking less healthy than usual
• Sprinkler heads that are stuck in the downward position or aren’t spraying as they should
• Low water pressure

Can you install a new sprinkler system?

While ABC does not put in new irrigation systems, we can and do install new sections or pieces, as needed, if your watering needs have changed or if an existing part of your system is no longer working. All new landscaping plans developed by our designers for our customers have the ability to incorporate new automated watering systems.

Should I get a drip irrigation system?

Some homeowners prefer to use drip irrigation rather than traditional sprinkler systems. A few of the benefits of a drip irrigation system are that they:

• Use less water, which translates into lower utility bills and less water waste
• Minimize the risk of overspray and evaporation that can happen with above-ground sprinkler heads
• Connect directly to your existing outdoor faucet, so you don’t need to cut into your home’s water line
• Provide flexibility, so that you can expand your system as your plants grow
• Offer precision, so that water goes exactly where you want it and not where it might promote weed growth
• Prevent excessive moisture that can lead to yard fungus
• Allow for more gentle watering, which can protect you from erosion

Some local governments offer incentives for homeowners to switch to drip irrigation systems. Since these systems use less water, they are usually exempt from watering restrictions. ABC can help you convert from a sprinkler system to a drip irrigation system or make repairs or adjustments to your drip system.

Can ABC help me save water?

Since we aren’t often outside when our sprinklers are running to spot any potential problems, these systems are the most likely culprit for water waste on our property. Keeping your sprinklers well-maintained will help prevent unwelcome surprises before they become a big headache. By performing routine maintenance, including checking and adjusting your sprinkler heads, you can repair leaks so that your sprinklers are distributing water effectively across your yard.

If you are concerned about your water usage, ABC’s sprinkler system specialists can make recommendations so that you can be more water wise.

When should I set my sprinkler system to run?

Your plants are most efficient at absorbing water in the early morning hours, so this is the best time to run your sprinkler system. If you water at night, more moisture accumulates, which increases your risk of developing yard fungus. In addition, watering restrictions in our area dictate that you should run your sprinklers before the heat of the day, since more water can be lost to evaporation.

Why do I have dry spots on my lawn?

One thing to keep in mind with sprinkler systems is that they need to be adjusted each season. You should expect to significantly increase your watering during extended periods of extreme heat. If you don’t, you’ll usually notice the telltale signs that your grass is stressed, which are dry areas.

In some cases, this could indicate that your sprinkler heads are clogged, your watering schedule needs to be adjusted or your valves malfunctioning. Other factors, including less nutrient-rich soil, can also contribute to some parts of your yard faring better than others. ABC’s yard pros can diagnose your problem and make adjustments to better nourish these problem spots in your yard.

What should I do to winterize my sprinkler system?

In some parts of the country, homeowners need to undertake a process each year to prepare their sprinkler systems for winter. In Austin, however, winterizing your sprinkler system is less important since we rarely, if ever, experience long stretches with freezing temperatures. If temperatures do dip below freezing, we recommend that you turn your system off and wrap any exposed metal parts with insulation.

Run your system once a month during the winter to prevent your valves and heads from becoming cracked and brittle. In the late fall, ABC offers winter system inspection to make any adjustments that might be needed to avoid any potential freeze damage.