A well-running sprinkler system keeps your lawn healthy, but even small issues can cause water waste long before you realize something is wrong. Many of the warning signs are subtle, happening underground or in hard-to-see areas of the yard. If you are noticing higher bills, browning patches of grass, or strange water patterns, your system may be using more water than necessary. Here are the most common clues to watch for.
Pooling Water in the Lawn
If water collects in certain areas long after the sprinklers shut off, something is not working properly. Pooling often points to a leaking head, a zone that is running too long, or soil that cannot absorb water because too much is being delivered at once. Even small puddles are worth paying attention to because they usually mean steady water loss every time the system runs.
Over-Spray onto Pavement or Siding
Sprinkler heads that spray onto sidewalks, driveways, fencing, or your home’s exterior are wasting water every single cycle. Heads shift over time from mowing, kids playing, or soil movement. A simple realignment can save gallons of water and help prevent staining, slippery surfaces, or unnecessary runoff.
Sinking or Sunken Sprinkler Heads
When a head sinks too low in the soil, the grass around it blocks the spray. This causes weak, uneven watering and forces the system to run longer to compensate. If you see grass covering the head or notice water spraying sideways instead of in a proper arc, the head likely needs to be raised or replaced.
Higher Water Bills Without Explanation
A sudden jump in your monthly bill is often a sign of a hidden problem. Underground leaks, cracked pipes, or valves that do not close completely can waste significant water without any visible clues. If your usage climbs and nothing in your home has changed, your irrigation system should be inspected.
Dry Spots or Patchy Growth
Dry rings or uneven grass growth are red flags. They usually point to clogged or misaligned heads, low pressure from underground leaks, or a zone that is not distributing water evenly. Many homeowners respond by running their system longer, but this only increases waste while the actual problem remains.
Sprinklers That Keep Dripping After They Shut Off
A light drip that continues for several minutes is normal for some low-lying heads, but a steady, persistent drip often means a valve issue. This is a slow and constant form of water loss that can add up quickly.
Why These Problems Matter
Even minor issues can waste hundreds of gallons over a season. Beyond higher bills, pooling water can damage plants, create muddy areas, and stress your lawn. Over-spray can erode soil or make walkways unsafe. And sunken or misaligned heads lead to uneven growth that leaves your lawn less healthy overall.
A Quick System Check Goes a Long Way
The best way to prevent water waste is to run a simple visual check of your system a few times each season. Watch the sprinklers while they are operating, look for unusual spray patterns, and make sure each zone is working the way it should. Professional inspections help catch hidden leaks, failing valves, and pressure issues that homeowners often miss.
A well-tuned system keeps your lawn green, your water bills stable, and your irrigation running efficiently.
Contact Suburban Lawn Sprinkler at (508) 872-2727 today or visit us online for more information!
